Adult Basic Education

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about GED and ABE Classes.

Following are course descriptions. Check the Annual Schedule to plan your schedule.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GED AND ABE CLASSES

What is the difference between ABE and GED classes?  

• ABE (Adult Basic Education) classes are designed for students who need to improve or brush-up on their basic skills. Depending on each student's needs, the class work will emphasize academic skills, life skills or job skills.
• Many ABE students have high school diplomas or GEDs, but they want to improve skills for ASSET testing, employment tests and even ASVAB (military) testing. Other students desire to go into a college program and need to improve math, writing or reading skills to succeed in their programs.
• GED (General Educational Development) is a specific set of tests that measure skills to determine if a student has academic skill somewhat equal to those of a high school graduate.
• Since the skills necessary for the GED are usually the same skills ABE students are seeking, they often study the same subjects but from a different angle. The students will hear the same lecture, but the teacher will keep each student's individual needs in mind and tailor the assignments accordingly.  

I completed a high school diploma in my country, but I do not have one from here. Do I need to take the GED?

• If you have some sort of form or diploma (even in your own language) that states you have completed high school, you do not need a GED. Those who cannot contact their former schools for a variety of reasons or who can't get written proof of their diplomas may decide to take the GED test.
• Please be aware that the GED does require a fairly high level of reading and writing, so successful completion of ESL level 5 indicates you have enough skills to start studying for the GED. It still may take several quarters to complete, though. Spanish speakers may take it in their native language.  

How do I sign up for the GED?

• If you just want to sign up just for testing and not the class, then you must call the Advising and Counseling Center at 206-546-6964.
• If you want to take a test preparation (GED) class, you may contact the Essential Skills Department at 206-546-5827.  

Can I sign up for ABE classes anytime?

• Yes, the classes have open enrollment until very late in the quarter. It has been observed, however, that students who enroll late in the quarter must work harder to improve their skills, especially if they have a deadline for completion. Therefore, it is advantageous to start the class as soon as possible.

Can I take math only in ABE classes?

• Yes. The class is divided into two segments. One part of the class focuses on math skills and reading skills for math. Another part is devoted to writing and reading.
• When students first enter the class, their math, writing and reading skills are assessed. While there is daily lecture for the entire class, time is also devoted to individualized study. That way students can focus on their specific skill needs and make progress at their own pace.  

Do I need to take ABE classes first and then take GED classes?

• When you are assessed at the beginning of the class, it will be determined if your skills are ABE level or GED level. As you continue your work during the quarter, it is possible that you will move into the GED level of work. Students who initially test into ABE level sometimes finish their GED during that quarter. Others sometimes need to take an extra quarter or two to complete their GED.  

How many times can I repeat a GED class?

• You may repeat it as many times as needed if you show progress every quarter. You and your teacher will decide what defines progress for you.  

I took the ASSET test and tested into math 060. Can I take the ABE math class?

• Yes. The ABE math class moves more slowly and is more individualized than math 060. You may also repeat ABE math several times as long as you are making progress with your math skills. Math 060 is suitable for students who just need a math brush-up and/or respond best to a formalized lecture/homework method of the teaching math. ABE math includes lecture and homework, but it is designed to meet a student's individual needs and students may not complete the whole spectrum of 060 math skills within one quarter.