General Education Development (GED)

Overview of GED Math and English Standards

The GED (General Educational Development) test provides individuals with the opportunity to earn a high school equivalency credential. Two key sections of the GED focus on Mathematical Reasoning and Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA).

The Math section evaluates skills in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis, emphasizing problem-solving, quantitative reasoning, and real-world application.

The English (RLA) section assesses reading comprehension, grammar, and writing ability through analyzing texts, editing passages, and composing an extended response (essay). Strong performance in these areas is essential for passing the GED and pursuing college, training programs, or career advancement.

GED Mathematical Reasoning – Overview

The GED Math test evaluates your understanding and application of math concepts necessary for college and workforce readiness. It is one of the four subject tests in the GED battery.

Time:

115 minutes (divided into 2 parts: Part 1 – no calculator; Part 2 – calculator allowed)

Allowed Tools:

  • TI-30XS Multiview Calculator

  • Formula Sheet provided

  • On-screen scratch pad or physical scratch paper

Content Domains:

GED Math covers four main content areas:

  1. Quantitative Problem Solving (45%)

  2. Algebraic Problem Solving (55%)

  3. Basic Geometry

  4. Basic Statistics and Probability

GED Math Standards – Full List (by Domain)

1. Quantitative Problem Solving (Numbers & Operations – ~45%)

Whole Numbers, Fractions, Decimals, Percents

  • Perform operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals

  • Convert between fractions, decimals, and percents

  • Apply ratios, rates, proportions, and percentages to solve problems

Measurement

  • Solve problems involving units of measure (length, mass, time, volume)

  • Convert between measurement systems

  • Calculate perimeter, area, surface area, and volume

Real-World Applications

  • Solve word problems involving:

    • Sales tax, discounts, markups

    • Tips, commissions

    • Interest (simple

2. Algebraic Problem Solving (~55%)

Expressions and Equations

  • Evaluate algebraic expressions

  • Translate real-world situations into algebraic expressions/equations

  • Solve one-variable linear equations and inequalities

  • Use formulas to solve problems (e.g., distance = rate × time)

Linear Equations and Graphing

  • Graph linear equations on the coordinate plane

  • Identify slope and intercepts from graphs and equations

  • Interpret slope and intercept in real-world contexts

  • Write linear equations from verbal descriptions or tables

Systems of Equations

  • Solve systems of linear equations graphically and algebraically

  • Interpret solutions in real-life contexts

Quadratics and Polynomials (limited)

  • Identify and evaluate quadratic expressions (basic)

  • Factor simple quadratic expressions (if applicable)

3. Geometry (integrated into Quantitative & Algebraic)

  • Use the Pythagorean Theorem

  • Understand properties of 2D and 3D shapes

  • Solve geometric problems involving congruence, similarity

  • Calculate area, perimeter, volume, and surface area

  • Understand angle relationships

4. Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability

  • Read and interpret data from charts, tables, and graphs

  • Calculate mean, median, mode, and range

  • Understand probability concepts

  • Use data to make predictions or draw conclusions

  • Identify misleading graphs or data representation

Notes on GED Math Assessment Design

  • Emphasis is on reasoning and problem-solving, not just computation.

  • Questions may include multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, drag-and-drop, and graphing.

  • Formula Sheet is provided — but students must know when and how to use the formulas.

GED Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) – Overview

The GED RLA test measures your ability to understand and analyze written passages, apply grammar rules, and write clearly and effectively.

Time:

150 minutes total

  • Section 1: Reading Comprehension & Language (35 minutes)

  • Section 2: Extended Response (Essay – 45 minutes)

  • Section 3: Reading & Language (60 minutes)

Test Format:

  • Multiple choice

  • Drag-and-drop

  • Drop-down

  • Extended response (essay)

Content Domains:

  1. Reading for Meaning (45%)

  2. Identifying and Analyzing Arguments (25%)

  3. Grammar and Language Conventions (30%)

GED English Language Arts (RLA) Standards – Full List

1. Reading for Meaning (Comprehension – ~45%)

Literary Texts

  • Determine central ideas/themes and summarize

  • Analyze character development, plot structure, and setting

  • Interpret figurative language and tone

Informational Texts

  • Determine the main idea and supporting details

  • Analyze text structure (e.g., cause/effect, compare/contrast)

  • Understand vocabulary in context

  • Distinguish between facts and opinions

  • Draw inferences and make evidence-based conclusions

Integration of Knowledge

  • Evaluate multimedia sources or graphics in context

  • Compare and contrast ideas across texts

2. Identifying and Analyzing Arguments (~25%)

  • Identify an author’s claim and supporting evidence

  • Evaluate the strength and relevance of arguments

  • Distinguish valid reasoning from fallacies

  • Analyze rhetorical strategies and persuasive techniques

  • Identify assumptions or biases in arguments

3. Grammar, Usage, and Language Conventions (~30%)

Sentence Structure and Clarity

  • Identify and correct:

    • Fragments and run-ons

    • Misplaced modifiers

    • Parallel structure errors

  • Recognize and revise sentence boundaries

Usage

  • Apply subject-verb agreement

  • Use proper verb tenses

  • Apply correct pronoun usage and agreement

Mechanics and Punctuation

  • Use commas, semicolons, colons, apostrophes correctly

  • Capitalize correctly

  • Apply spelling rules

Word Choice and Style

  • Improve sentence clarity and tone

  • Recognize redundant or awkward word choices

  • Choose language appropriate to the context and audience

Extended Response (Essay)

You’ll write an evidence-based argumentative essay. Skills assessed:

  • Analyze two opposing passages

  • Determine which argument is stronger

  • Construct a well-organized, logical argument

  • Cite textual evidence clearly and accurately

  • Use proper grammar, syntax, and mechanics

Notes on GED RLA Assessment Design

  • Emphasizes critical reading and analytical writing

  • Encourages evidence-based responses

  • Designed to reflect real-world literacy demands in college and careers

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