This document discusses changes to the 2014 GED test, including it becoming a computer-based test (CBT) taken in individual content areas instead of a full paper battery. It introduces Webb's Depth of Knowledge framework for classifying question complexity and provides an overview of each test's content areas. The document recommends strategies for instruction like requiring students to explain answers, using open-ended questions, and applying skills across subjects. Resources for educators are also listed.

1. What the Item Sampler tell us
about the 2014 GED® Test
David Baker
Illinois Community College Board
david.a.baker@illinois.gov

2. Goals
• Changes to Testing
• Understanding of Webb’s Depth of Knowledge
• Introduce the Item Sampler
• Discuss changes in content
• How this affects instruction
• Resources

3. Testing Changes
Paper Test 2014 CBT
Sign Up for Complete Battery Sign up for Content Area Test
Test Takers move in unison through
test taking experience
Test Takers move at their own rate
through each content area
Battery of test administered in one
day or two day session
Content areas test are taken
according to test-taker schedule
5 Tests 4 Tests

4. Testing Timeline
2013 2014
Paper Based and CBT CBT Only
CBT based on 2002 Test New Test, including Spanish
Paper Test Full Battery $50
CBT Full Batter $120 + $10
$120 + 10

5. Webb’s Depth of Knowledge
• Not about difficulty
• Complexity
• Not about the verb

6. Webb’s Depth of Knowledge
Level # Title of Level
1 Recall and Reproduction
2 Skills and Concepts
3 Short-Term Strategic Thinking
4 Extended Thinking
20 %
80%
0%

7. Remember, it’s not about the verb.
• Level 1:
Describe three characteristics of metamorphic
rocks
• Level 2:
Describe the differences between metamorphic
and igneous rocks.
• Level 3:
Describe a model that you might use to represent
the relationships that exist within the rock cycle.

8. Content
• Overview of each Test
– Minnesota Guide page 6

9. Reasoning Through Language Arts
• Vocabulary across disciplines
• 75% Non-Fiction
• 25% Fiction
• “Great American Conversation”
• Extended Response
• Two Short Answers
• Let’s look at the Item Sampler

10. Mathematical Reasoning
• 45% Quantitative Problem Solving
• 55% Algebraic Problem Solving
• Virtual Calculator
• White Board
• Let’s Look at the Item Sampler

11. Science Test
• 40% Life Science
• 40% Physical Science
• 20% Earth and Space
• Two Short Answer Questions
• Let’s Look at the Item Sampler

12. Social Studies
• 50% Civics and Government
• 20% U.S. History
• 15% Economics
• 15% Geography
• Extended Response
• Let’s Look at the Item Sampler

13. Strategies
• What do you think?

14. Strategies
• Require students to explain their answers
• Open ended question format
• Apply reading, writing, and math skills from all
subject area
• Remember 80/20 split.

15. Resources
• GED® Testing Service
www.gedtestingservice.com
The educator link has links to the full Assessment
Guide for Educators, the Item Sampler and
webinar archives.
• Excellence in Adult Education
www.excellenceinadulted.com
Links to content that is developed in Illinois for
your use and materials developed by other
states.