Social Studies is one of four subtests that forms the GED test. Have you known about the general overview of the GED Social Studies test and tips to ace it? Keep reading this article to get more information.
1. OVERVIEW OF THE GED SOCIAL STUDIES TEST
1.1. GED Social Studies Test Format
In the GED Social Studies test, you need to complete 36 questions within 70 minutes. There are four major topics in the GED Social Studies test namely US History, Civics and Government, Economics and Geography.
Although the test has four main topics, it has only two themes. They are the Development of Modern Liberties and Democracy and the Dynamic Responses in Societal Systems. The former studies how democracy and human civil rights developed from the earliest civilizations up to present. The latter looks into how the systems, structures and policies that we have the responsibility to each other and certain conditions and events.
The GED Social Studies test assesses test takers’ ability to analyze and understand text about social studies. It also evaluates test takers’ reasoning skills and problem-solving skills.
1.2. How is the GED Social Studies Test scored?
Like other three subtests, the passing score of the GED Social Studies test is 145. The test is also scored on a 100 – 200 scale.
2. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) ABOUT GED SOCIAL STUDIES TEST
2.1. Who is eligible to take the GED Social Studies Test?
Below are requirements to make a person eligible to sit for the GED Social Studies Test:
- You are at least 16 years old
- You have not enrolled in high school
- You have not graduated from high school
- You meet all additional requirements in your state. You are advised to find out about the testing policies and requirements in your state since each state is different.
2.2. How much does the GED Social Studies Test cost?
The GED Social Studies test fees are varied in each state. However, they typically range from $3.75 to $30.
2.3. What topics are included in the GED Social Studies Test?
Here are some topics that are included in the GED Social Studies test:
- The Louisiana Purchase
- Civil War
- Branches of Government
- North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
- Industrial Revolution
2.4. How long does the GED Social Studies Test take?
The time of the GED Social Studies test is 70 minutes (1 hour & 10 minutes). There will be no break during the exam.
2.5. What types of questions are included in the GED Social Studies Test?
The GED Social Studies test comprises the following kinds of questions:
- Fill in the blank
- Drop down
- Multiple choice
- Select an area
- Drag and drop
2.6. How many times can I retake the GED Social Studies Test?
Test takers can sit for the GED Social Studies test as many times as they want. Generally, students can take the GED Social Studies test three times. However, after the third time, they must wait 60 days before retaking the test. The retesting rules in each state may vary. For instance, in Maryland, students are only allowed to take the test three times a year. It is recommended for you to learn about retake policies in your state.
3. NOTE FOR TEST DAY
Procedures on test day differ in each testing center. However, you can find several common test rules below:
- Try to come to the testing site at least 15 minutes before the exam starts. In some testing locations, you will not be allowed to take the test if you are 15 minutes late.
- Bring an unexpired photo identification card. A state-issued ID, military ID and license or passport are accepted.
- You will be given three erasable note boards and a marker to use during the test.
- There will be a test timer so that you can know how much time you have left for the test.
All personal belongings such as purses and backpacks as well as electronic devices are not permitted to be brought into the testing room.
Practice more:
4. TIPS TO GET A HIGH SCORE IN THE GED SOCIAL STUDIES TEST
4.1. Take note of important names, dates and events
History is an important part of social studies. This part requires you to remember events, people and dates in history. Therefore, when studying or taking the GED practice test, you should write down important events and names which are mentioned. Learn about why these events and people are important, which will help you remember facts.
Concerning dates, it is advisable to draw a timeline of events. For instance, you can make a timeline of how civilizations developed. This will help you know how and why each event took place.
4.2. Use tools to remember facts
Apart from jotting down important events, you should also get the keywords and write them on flashcards. This will assist you in remembering the facts and details that these represent.
Another tactic to remember facts is reading aloud. When reading books, read key paragraphs aloud.
4.3. Develop interest in Social Studies
One of the best ways to study one subject effectively is being interested in it. Any information becomes interesting when you have attractive visuals and presentation. You can watch films or documentaries that talk about social studies.
4.4. Read various sources of material
To obtain a high score in the Social Studies test, read various sources of material such as articles, documents or books. Although different authors may have different viewpoints, learn to realize their opposing views and why they have different opinions.
4.5. Check your knowledge
After studying, you can check what you know by taking practice tests. This will help you know which topics you need to learn more.
5. GED SOCIAL STUDIES PRACTICE TEST BY GEDTESTPRO.COM
GED TEST PRO are designed to help you get familiar with the real exam. Our practice tests cover topics including Civics and Government, US History, Geography and Economics. With a diverse question library, GED TEST PRO will give you an idea about the types of questions you will meet in the exam. Our website and app also feature video tutorials which will give you a close insight into the test.
Take our free GED Practice Test for Social Studies right now!