GED Preparation
The YMCA Education and Technology Center offers classes in GED preparation that help prepare students for the examination. Classes focus on all five subjects found on the exam, as well as study tactics and test-taking skills. Students are able to become familiar with the GED exam material, and they often approach the exam with greater confidence. Our professional and experienced instructors are often available for additional help. One-on-one attention can also be given during our GED study group or with a tutor.
Registering for GED classes
Our registration process includes a short exam that will help to place you in an appropriate class. It is best to make an appointment to come in and complete the registration process.
For more information, or to set up a registration appointment call us at 215.400.2100 or stop in our office at:
125 South 9th St., Suite 502
Sheridan Building
Philadelphia, PA 19107
GED classes are offered during the day and in the evening for your convenience.
Please call us at 215.400.2100 for more information about the GED class schedule.
What is the exam like?
The GED exam consists of 5 sections--Math, Writing, Reading, Social Studies and Science. Each Section can (and should) be taken separatley.
The Reading, Social Studies and Science sections are multiple choice tests and are mostly based in reading comprehension. You won't be asked to memorize any content (like dates in history or chemical reactions), but you will be asked to read text on these subjects and show that you understand it.
There are two parts in the Writing section. The multiple choice section focuses on your ability to revise and edit office memos, letters and other documents. In the essay section, you'll be asked to write a focused, origanized answer to an essay question.
The Math section tests your knowledge of fractions, decimals, percents, algebra, geometry and mathematical reasoning. Most of the questions are word problems and involve charts, graphs or other visual information.
Each section is graded on a scaled score of 0-800. A score of 410 is considered a passing grade; however, your test scores must average out to 450. You must have an overall score of at least 2250 to pass the GED exam.
Testing locations
The GED exam is not offered at the YMCA. However, you may register for and take the exam at any of the following Philadelphia sites:
District 1199c Training and Upgrading Fund
Breslin Learning Center
100 South Broad Street (between Chestnut and Sansom Sts.)
10th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19110
(215) 568-2220
Temple University
Barton Hall, 1st Floor
13th & Norris Sts. (enter from Norris)
Philadelphia, PA 19122
(215) 204-8613 or (215) 204-8615
Community College of Philadelphia
17th & Spring Garden Sts.
Bonnell Building (entrance on 17th St. between Spring Garden & Callowhill Sts.)
Room BG9 - Testing Center
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 751-8221
You will want to call the site to get times and dates for registration and testing.
Additional study resources
We have many resources at our center, including GED preparation books and practice tests. We also have a large computer lab where students can visit the various GED preparation websites. Some of these sites include:
http://www.4tests.com/ or http://www.gedtestsonline.com/ for practice tests.
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/ for writing and grammar help.
http://www.math.com/ or http://mathfactcafe.com/ for excerises in mathematics.
For additional resources to continue studying from home, you may visit the Reader Development Program. They will give you up to three different books in any of the five GED subjects. You may visit their office at:
Reader Development Program
Free Library of Philadelphia
1901 Vine St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 686-5346