PASS THE GED SCIENCE TEST | what to study: part one - science practices

Summary

This video offers an introduction to the GED Science test, highlighting what you need to know to pass. It explains the test structure, which includes topics like life, physical, and earth/space sciences, and emphasizes the skills required: reading for meaning in science, designing experiments, and using numbers/graphics. The video also covers the scientific method, understanding variables, interpreting data, and applying basic math and probability skills. Additionally, the presenter points to resources like the GED study guide and Kaplan GED prep manual for further study.

Takeaways

• 📚 The GED science exam requires a score of 145 or above to pass.
• ⏱ The test is 90 minutes long and consists of 34 questions related to passages, graphs, tables, and other graphics.
• 🔬 40% of the test is about life sciences, 40% about physical sciences, and the remaining 20% about earth and space science.
• 🧠 The test focuses on understanding, interpreting, and analyzing scientific ideas rather than memorizing facts.
• 👨‍🔬 Three key skills are needed: reading for meaning in science, designing and interpreting experiments, and using numbers and graphics in science.
• 🌐 Familiarity with scientific vocabulary and symbols is important for understanding passages.
• 🔬 The scientific method involves observing, hypothesizing, testing, and drawing conclusions.
• 📊 Understanding how to work with populations and samples is crucial for experimental design.
• 📈 The ability to apply science formulas, describe data sets, and interpret various types of graphs is necessary.
• 📈 The TI-30UX multi-view calculator can be used on the test, and knowledge of statistical measures is required.
• 📚 Practice with real test questions and resources like the GED.com study guide and Kaplan GED prep manual is recommended.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the GED science test according to the video?

The main focus of the GED science test is not on memorizing specific facts but on understanding, interpreting, and analyzing scientific ideas.

What percentage of the GED science test questions are related to life sciences?

40% of the GED science test questions are related to life sciences, including topics such as biology, genetics, and the environment.

What are the three main categories of skills needed to pass the GED science test?

The three main categories of skills needed are: reading for meaning in science, designing and interpreting experiments, and using numbers and graphics in science.

What is the scientific method and what are its five basic steps?

The scientific method is a process used by scientists to observe and draw conclusions. The five steps are: 1) Observe and ask a question, 2) Collect data, 3) Form a hypothesis, 4) Test the hypothesis, 5) Draw a conclusion.

How does the GED science test incorporate reading for meaning in science?

In the GED science test, you'll be asked to read scientific passages and identify evidence supporting a theory or conclusion, and compare differing claims from two sources.

What are independent and dependent variables in an experiment?

The independent variable is the element being changed or manipulated in the experiment, while the dependent variable is what is being observed or measured, as it depends on changes in the independent variable.

What kind of formulas and calculations might appear on the GED science test?

You may need to use provided formulas, such as converting Celsius to Fahrenheit, or apply statistical measures like mean, median, mode, and probability. The TI-30UX calculator is allowed during the test.

What are some common types of graphs that you should be able to interpret for the test?

You should be able to interpret line graphs, bar graphs, histograms, dot plots, scatter plots, and other graphical data presentations.

How do scientists use the concept of sampling in experiments?

Scientists use samples when they cannot study an entire population. A well-designed sample should be random and, when possible, have a control group for comparison to ensure accurate results.

What is the difference between an experiment and an observational study?

An experiment actively manipulates variables to test a hypothesis, while an observational study simply observes existing conditions without interference, often due to ethical concerns.