practice ged essay topics

396 GED Essay Topics, Prompts, & Good Ideas

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
• Icon Page 3126 words
• Icon Clock 14 min read

General Educational Development (GED) essay topics span a broad range of themes intended to test one’s comprehension, analytical abilities, and proficiency in written communication. These subjects often delve into prominent social issues, such as climate change, poverty, and racial discrimination, demanding an insightful exploration of these themes. Furthermore, personal development topics prompt candidates to introspect, examine crucial life choices, or demonstrate resilience amidst challenging circumstances. Discussions on societal systems also form a critical part of GED essay topics, urging candidates to scrutinize structures, like the justice system, education policies, and healthcare facilities. In turn, evaluative tasks pertaining to historical events, literary analysis, or data interpretation are needed to be explored. The objective is not only to state one’s thoughts but also to present them in a clear, coherent, and persuasive manner, substantiating them with appropriate examples, personal anecdotes, or statistical data. The ultimate goal of these GED essay topics is to enhance a candidate’s critical thinking and communication skills, fostering competencies for future endeavors.

Best GED Essay Topics

• Social Media’s Influence on Global Culture
• Renewable Energy: Benefits and Drawbacks
• Universal Healthcare from a Global Perspective
• Cybersecurity Threats in the Digital Age
• Impacts of Technology on Mental Health
• Climate Change: Mitigation Strategies and Challenges
• Artificial Intelligence and Future Job Markets
• Privacy Concerns in Today’s Internet Society
• Urban Development Implications of Public Transportation
• Vegetarianism: Health and Environmental Effects
• Drone Technology: Practical and Ethical Aspects
• Animal Rights: Welfare, Conservation, and Ethics
• Nuclear Energy: Risk vs. Reward
• Exploring Identity and Integration Through Multiculturalism
• Digital Currency: Economic Impacts and Predictions
• The Automation Revolution: Industrial Progress or Peril
• Wilderness Preservation vs. Resource Extraction
• Feasibility of Interplanetary Colonization: Space Travel
• Holistic Education: Necessity in the 21st Century
• Pros and Cons of Mandatory Military Service
• A Pandemic Legacy: Online Learning

Easy GED Essay Topics

• Societal Impacts and Solutions for Aging Populations
• Volunteering: Personal Growth and Societal Benefits
• Child Labor: Ethical Implications and Remedies
• Art Therapy: Healing Power or Placebo
• Strains on Resources and Solutions: Overpopulation
• Cyber Bullying: An Invisible Threat
• Veganism: Ethics, Health, and Environment
• Internet Censorship: Freedom vs. Security
• Minimalism: A Solution to Consumerism
• Polar Ice Melt: Consequences and Countermeasures
• Electric Cars: A Green Future
• Genetic Testing: Pros, Cons, and Ethical Dilemmas
• Capital Punishment: A Justified Deterrent
• Telemedicine: A New Era in Healthcare
• Microplastic Pollution: An Underestimated Threat
• Cryptocurrency: Disruptor or Flash in the Pan
• Fast Fashion: Consumerism’s Environmental Cost
• Vaccinations: Public Health Triumph or Controversy
• Citizen Journalism: Democratic Tool or Danger
• Vertical Farming: Feeding Tomorrow’s Cities
• Antimicrobial Resistance: An Emerging Health Crisis
• Homeschooling: Educational Freedom or Isolation
• Space Junk: Consequences and Clean-Up

Interesting GED Essay Topics

• Parenting Styles: Impact on Child Development
• Gig Economy: Boon or Bane for Workers
• Urbanization’s Effect on Biodiversity
• Dark Tourism: Morbid Fascination or Educational Experience
• Nanotechnology: Pioneering the Microcosm
• Modern Slavery: An Unseen Epidemic
• Smart Cities: Revolutionizing Urban Living
• Forest Fires: Climate Change Amplifier
• Traditional Medicine vs. Modern Healthcare
• Aquaculture: Solution to Overfishing
• Body Image Issues in Media Representation
• E-Sports: The Evolution of Competition
• Augmented Reality: Impacts on Society
• Remote Work: A Blessing or a Curse
• Hyperloop: Revolutionizing Transportation
• Mental Illness Stigma: Society’s Silent Struggle
• Mandatory Voting: Democracy Boost or Rights Violation
• Eco-Tourism: Environmentally Friendly or Exploitative
• Solitude in the Age of Connectivity
• Fake News: Information Integrity in Digital Media
• Internet of Things: Opportunities and Risks
• Bioprinting: The Future of Medicine

History GED Essay Topics for High School

• Impacts and Implications of the American Revolution on World Politics
• The Cold War Era: An Analysis of Its Effects on Global Relations
• Civil Rights Movement: A Study on Martin Luther King Jr’s Influence
• The Industrial Revolution and Its Role in Shaping the Modern World
• World War II: Homefront Experiences and Their Historical Significance
• Napoleon Bonaparte: An Examination of His Role in European History
• Ancient Rome: Its Contributions to Law and Governance
• The Holocaust: A Deep Dive Into Its Global Consequences
• The Gutenberg Press: The Catalyst for the Renaissance and Reformation
• Aztec Empire: Understanding Its Rise and Fall
• Prohibition Era: Its Long-Term Effects on American Society and Economy
• The Role of Feudalism in Shaping Medieval Europe’s Socioeconomic Landscape
• Chinese Cultural Revolution: A Study on Its Sociopolitical Effects
• The Spanish Inquisition: Its Impact on Religious Freedom and Persecution
• British Colonial Rule in India: Unraveling Its Long-Term Impacts
• African Kingdoms: Unearthing Their Role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade
• Transcontinental Railroad: Its Role in Shaping American Expansion
• Byzantine Empire: Its Influence on Christian Orthodoxy
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Pivotal Point in Cold War History
• Agricultural Revolution: How Did It Transform Early Human Societies?
• The Persian Empire: Its Role in the Formation of the Middle East
• Viking Invasions: Their Impact on European History and Culture

History GED Essay Topics for College Students

• The French Revolution: A Study of Its Impact on Modern Democracy
• The Crusades: Their Effects on Christian-Muslim Relations
• Renaissance: Its Impact on European Art and Culture
• The Reign of Terror: Unearthing Its Historical Legacy in French History
• The Trail of Tears: Unmasking the Human Rights Violations
• The Ottoman Empire: Exploring the Reasons Behind Its Collapse
• Manhattan Project: How Did It Usher in the Nuclear Age?
• The Russian Revolution: Its Role in the Formation of the Soviet Union
• The Arab Spring: How It Reshaped Modern Middle Eastern Politics
• The Boer War: Its Effects on South Africa
• The Zulu Kingdom: Its Impact on Southern African History
• Ancient Greek Philosophy: Its Influence on Western Thought
• The East India Company: Its Role in Global Trade Dynamics
• The Meiji Restoration: Its Influence on Japan’s Modernization
• European Imperialism: Its Effects on Native Populations in the Americas
• The Black Death: Its Impact on Medieval Europe
• The Space Race: How Did It Shape Technological Advancements?
• The Armenian Genocide: A Detailed Examination of Its Historical Ramifications
• The Great Depression: An Investigation of Its Effects on American Family Dynamics
• Disappearance of the Mayan Civilization: A Historical Mystery
• Women’s Suffrage Movement: Its Impact on Present-Day Gender Equity

GED Essay Prompts

• Impacts of Social Media on Teenage Relationships
• Influence of Celebrity Culture on Teenage Fashion Choices
• Risks and Benefits of Online Learning for Adolescents
• Consequences of Teenage Smoking and Vaping
• Cyberbullying’s Effects on Teen Mental Health
• Roles of Extracurricular Activities in School Life
• Importance of Financial Education in High School
• Effects of Climate Change on Future Generations
• Childhood Obesity and Public Health Strategies
• Technology’s Influence on Modern Adolescent Communication
• Balancing Academics and Sports in High School
• Influence of Music Genres on Teenage Behavior
• Pros and Cons of Teenage Entrepreneurship
• Emphasizing Mental Health in School Curriculums
• Roles of Books in Enhancing Creativity among Teenagers
• Necessity of Healthy Eating Habits in Adolescents
• Rising Popularity of E-Sports among Teenagers
• Responsibilities and Rights of Teen Workers
• Strategies for Reducing Teenage Pregnancy Rates
• Promoting Environmental Awareness in High School Students

GED Language Arts Essay Topics

• Exploring the Impact of Literature on Society
• Analysis of Technology’s Role in Modern Writing
• Evolution of Poetry throughout History
• Influence of Media on Language and Communication
• Importance of Critical Thinking in Analyzing Literary Works
• Power of Persuasion in Advertising and Marketing
• Effectiveness of Creative Writing in Expressing Emotions
• Elements of a Successful Short Story
• Cultural Significance of Folktales and Legends
• Symbolism in Poetry and Prose
• Role of Ethics in Journalism and Reporting
• Impact of Social Media on Language and Writing Style
• Connections Between Language and Identity
• Influence of Historical Events on Literature
• Women Writers in Shaping Literature
• Themes of Love and Loss in Shakespearean Sonnets
• Evolution of the English Language over Time
• Benefits of Bilingualism in Language Acquisition
• Use of Satire in Political Cartoons and Literature
• Relationship Between Music and Poetry
• Roles of Literary Devices in Creating Memorable Prose

Social Study GED Essay Topics

• Industrialization’s Impacts on Urbanization in the 19th Century
• Exploring Causes and Consequences of the Great Depression
• Analyzing the Effects of Colonialism on Indigenous Cultures
• Investigating Origins of Democracy in Ancient Greece
• The Impact of Globalization on Cultural Diversity
• Assessing Factors that Led to the American Revolution
• Examining the Role of Religion in Shaping Societies
• Exploring Consequences of the Cold War
• Analyzing the Impact of Immigration on Economic Growth
• Causes and Consequences of World War I
• Investigating the Role of Education in Social Mobility
• Analyzing the Role of Media in Shaping Public Opinion
• The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Labor Conditions
• Assessing the Significance of the Women’s Suffrage Movement
• Effects of Colonialism on African Economies
• Investigating the Origins and Spread of Buddhism
• The Role of Technology in Social and Political Movements
• Analyzing the Impact of the Vietnam War on American Society
• Influence of Political Ideologies on Government Policies
• Exploring Origins and Spread of Human Rights
• Assessing Consequences of European Imperialism in Africa

GED Essay Topics for Adults

• Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Education
• Influence of Social Media on Personal Relationships
• Roles of Exercise in Boosting Mental Health
• Impacts of Climate Change on Global Economies
• Importance of Renewable Energy Sources for Sustainable Future
• Privacy Concerns in the Age of Information Technology
• Vegetarianism Versus Meat-Eating: A Nutritional Comparison
• Implications of Artificial Intelligence on the Workforce
• Necessity of Financial Education in Modern Curriculum
• Impacts of Immigration Policies on National Identity
• Influence of Video Games on Adolescent Behavior
• Effectiveness of Gun Control Measures in Reducing Crime
• Internet’s Role in Promoting Entrepreneurship
• Veganism as a Response to Animal Cruelty
• Cybersecurity Threats in the Era of Digitalization
• Women’s Rights Movements: The Journey So Far
• Child Labor Laws: Effectiveness and Drawbacks
• Potential of Space Travel for Future Generations
• Roles of Unions in Protecting Workers’ Rights
• Impacts of Genetic Engineering on Medicine

GED Essay Topics for Teenagers

• Effective Study Techniques for High School Students
• Fitness and Its Effects on Teenage Wellness
• Multilingualism and Cognitive Development in Adolescents
• Parenting Styles’ Effects on Adolescent Behavior
• Influence of the Fashion Industry on Teenage Body Image
• Roles of Art Therapy in Managing Teen Stress
• Social Networking Sites and Teenage Privacy
• Challenges Faced by Immigrant Teenagers in Schools
• Encouraging Adolescents Toward Sustainable Living
• Volunteerism and its Role in Teenage Development
• Impacts of Peer Pressure on Teenage Decisions
• Cybersecurity Education for Adolescents
• Childhood Trauma and Its Impact on Adolescent Development
• Exploring Adolescent Perceptions of Body Art
• Influence of Reality TV on Teenage Aspirations
• Strategies for Building Emotional Intelligence in Teens
• Roles of School Counseling in Teenage Career Choices
• Animal Rights and Teenage Activism
• Value of Internships for High School Students
• Effects of Divorce on Teenage Mental Health
• Importance of Astronomy Education in High School

GED Essay Topics on Current Events

• Income Inequality: Bridging the Wealth Gap
• Cybersecurity: Protecting Online Privacy and Data
• Gender Equality: Empowering Women in the Modern World
• Mental Health Awareness: Destigmatizing Psychological Well-Being
• Space Exploration: Pushing the Boundaries of Science
• Education Reform: Enhancing Learning in the 21st Century
• Global Migration: Managing the Challenges of Displacement
• Biotechnology Advancements: Shaping the Future of Medicine
• Gun Control: Finding a Balance Between Safety and Rights
• Racial Justice: Promoting Equality and Ending Discrimination
• Sustainable Agriculture: Building a Resilient Food System
• Nuclear Power: Evaluating Its Role in a Clean Energy Future
• Automation and Job Displacement: Preparing for the Future of Work
• Refugee Crisis: Providing Support and Integration Strategies
• Genetic Engineering: Exploring the Ethical Implications
• Universal Basic Income: Redefining Social Welfare Systems
• Blockchain Technology: Revolutionizing Industries and Security
• Indigenous Rights: Preserving Cultural Heritage and Land Rights
• Food Waste Reduction: Tackling the Issue of Hunger and Sustainability
• Immigration Policies: Balancing National Security and Compassion

Education GED Essay Topics

• The Significance of Critical Thinking Skills in Education
• Advancing STEM Education for Future Innovators
• Promoting Cultural Diversity Within School Curriculum
• Addressing Educational Disparities and the Achievement Gap
• Integrating Technology for Enhanced Learning
• Effective Strategies for Classroom Management
• Benefits of Early Childhood Education
• Examining the Impact of Homeschooling on Student Development
• Cultivating Creativity and Imagination in Education
• Evaluating the Pros and Cons of Standardized Testing
• The Influence of Social Media on Educational Practices
• Engaging Parents in Education for Student Success
• Implementing Character Development in Schools
• Overcoming Obstacles in Special Education
• The Importance of Financial Literacy in Schooling
• Exploring the Role of Arts Education in Holistic Growth
• Strategies to Combat Bullying and Foster Safe School Environments
• Assessing the Impact of School Funding on Academic Quality
• Promoting Healthy Lifestyles through Physical Education
• Integrating Environmental Awareness in the Curriculum
• Exploring Alternative Educational Approaches and Their Efficacy

GED Essay Topics on Environment

• The Importance of Wetland Conservation
• The Significance of Recycling in Waste Management
• Conservation of Endangered Species: Preserving Earth’s Diversity
• The Role of Technology in Environmental Sustainability
• The Relationship Between Urbanization and Environmental Challenges
• Water Scarcity: Necessity for Conservation Strategies
• The Impact of Industrialization on Air Quality
• Sustainable Transportation: Reducing Carbon Footprints
• The Importance of Oceans in Maintaining Ecosystem Balance
• Ecosystem Restoration: Healing the Planet
• The Role of Government Policies in Environmental Protection
• Impacts of Overfishing on Marine Ecosystems
• Waste Reduction: Minimizing Environmental Footprints
• The Significance of Environmental Justice in Communities
• Transitioning to Renewable Energy: Advantages and Challenges
• Forests’ Roles in Carbon Sequestration
• Consequences of Soil Erosion on Agricultural Productivity
• Importance of Wildlife Conservation for Eco-Tourism
• Benefits of Sustainable Building Practices
• Relationship Between Consumerism and Environmental Degradation

GED Essay Topics on Health

• Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility in Underserved Regions
• Innovative Approaches to Tackle Childhood Obesity
• Encouraging Healthy Aging Practices for Longevity
• Social Media’s Influence on Body Image and Mental Health
• Bridging Health Disparities Among Socioeconomic Groups
• Promoting the Benefits of Meditation for Stress Relief
• Fostering Mental Health Awareness in Educational Institutions
• Preventing Osteoporosis through Regular Exercise
• Managing and Preventing Chronic Pain Effectively
• Environmental Factors’ Significance in Human Health
• Strengthening Disease Prevention Education for Public Health
• Cognitive Function Enhancement through Regular Physical Activity
• Integrating Alternative Medicine Into Mainstream Healthcare
• Combating the Opioid Crisis: Prevention and Treatment Strategies
• Early Detection and Treatment of Chronic Illnesses
• Workplace Wellness Programs: Promoting Employee Health
• Nurturing Healthy Eating Habits in Educational Settings
• Genetic Factors in Disease Prevention and Treatment
• Dual Impacts of Substance Abuse on Physical and Mental Health
• Promoting Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Education
• Respiratory Health Challenges Caused by Air Pollution

Technology GED Essay Topics

• Exploring Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering
• Technology’s Roles in Environmental Conservation
• Empowering Individuals With Assistive Innovations
• Advancements in Renewable Energy Solutions
• Social Media’s Influence on Contemporary Society
• Safeguarding Sensitive Information: The Importance of Cybersecurity
• The Evolution of Mobile Devices and Communication Channels
• The Future of Immersive Experiences: Virtual Reality
• Streamlining Workflows: Automating Processes with Technology
• Drones: Revolutionizing Various Sectors
• Biometric Authentication Systems: Pros and Cons
• Blockchain Technology: Transforming Various Spheres
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Advancements in Patient Care
• Digitalization’s Effects on Traditional Media Platforms
• Green Technology: Sustainable Solutions for the Future
• The Influence of Gaming on Cognitive Abilities and Development
• Cryptocurrencies: Reshaping the Financial Landscape
• Smart Technologies in Transportation Systems
• Robotics in Industrial Automation: Enhancing Efficiency
• Ethical Considerations of Autonomous Vehicles in Society

History GED Essay Topics

• Colonial Influences on Modern-Day American Society: An Exploration
• Reconstruction Policies Post-Civil War: A Comparative Analysis
• American Civil Rights Movement: Its Influence on Global Human Rights Activism
• Collapse of the Roman Empire: Impact on Modern Architecture
• Influence of Ottoman Architecture on Modern Design Principles
• Mughal Rule in India: Legacy in Art, Culture, and Administration
• Impacts of the Bubonic Plague on 14th-Century Europe
• Significance of the Gold Rush in California’s Development
• Roles of Spartan Society in Ancient Greek Military Dominance
• Social Consequences of the Age of Exploration in the Americas
• Significance of the Battle of Hastings in English History
• Historical Analysis of the Suez Crisis and Global Power Dynamics
• Fall of the Soviet Union: Ramifications on Contemporary Politics
• Understanding the Political Landscape of Post-Apartheid South Africa
• Causes and Consequences of the Teapot Dome Scandal in the US
• Cultural Shifts Prompted by the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s
• Development of Democracy in Athens: Influences on Modern Political Systems
• Impacts of the Khmer Rouge Regime on Cambodia
• Consequences of the Thirty Years’ War on European State Formation
• Exploration of the Ming Dynasty’s Influence on Chinese Culture
• Influence of the Civilian Conservation Corps on the American Environment

GED Math Essay Topics

• The Pros and Cons of Calculators in Mathematics Education
• Mathematics in Cryptography and Data Security
• Graph Theory’s Impacts on Network Connectivity
• Mathematics and Art: Symmetry and Fractals
• Contributions of Mathematics to Economics
• The Significance of Mathematical Reasoning in Problem-Solving
• Geometry in Architectural Design and Construction
• Game Theory in Strategic Decision-Making
• Mathematics and Music Theory Connection
• Calculus and Physics: Analyzing Motion
• Linear Algebra in Computer Graphics and Animation
• Discrete Mathematics in Computer Science Applications
• Statistical Analysis in Medical Research and Clinical Trials
• Mathematical Patterns in Nature
• Ethics in Data Collection and Analysis for Big Data
• Mathematical Principles in Machine Learning Algorithms
• Number Theory’s Applications in Cryptography
• Game Theory in Economics and Business Strategy
• Chaos Theory and Complex Systems
• Mathematics and Genetics: Population Studies

GED Science Essay Topics

• Investigating Nanotechnology’s Benefits and Risks
• Examining Human DNA’s Evolutionary Significance
• Understanding Photosynthesis Mechanics in Plants
• The Influence of Technology on Human Health and Well-Being
• Unraveling Dark Matter’s Mysteries in the Universe
• Ethical Implications of Human Cloning and Stem Cell Research
• Evaluating Antibiotic Resistance’s Impact on Public Health
• Climate Change’s Effects on Biodiversity and Ecosystems
• Analyzing the Relationship Between Genetics and Behavior
• Investigating Space Exploration’s Potential for Human Civilization
• Vaccines’ Roles in Controlling Infectious Diseases
• Understanding Quantum Mechanics’ Physics
• Prospects of Colonizing Other Planets Within the Solar System
• Analyzing the Causes and Consequences of Ocean Acidification
• Exploring Artificial Intelligence’s Effects on Job Automation
• Analyzing Ocean Pollution’s Impacts on Marine Life
• Explaining Evolution and Natural Selection Mechanisms
• Robotics’ Roles in Revolutionizing Manufacturing Industries
• Investigating Gene Therapy’s Potential for Treating Genetic Disorders
• Addressing the Link Between Mental Health and Neurobiology

Essay Topics on Nursing for GED Test

• Exploring the Role of Nurses in Pain Management
• Critical Analysis of Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing
• Holistic Approach to Care: Impact on Patient Outcomes
• Understanding the Importance of Communication in Nursing
• Patient Advocacy: Essential Aspect of Nursing Practice
• Advancements in Technology: Implications for Modern Nursing
• Nurse Burnout: Causes, Consequences, and Prevention Strategies
• Pediatric Nursing: Specific Challenges and Opportunities
• Reflection on Leadership Styles in Nursing Management
• Geriatric Care: Nursing Strategies for Older Adults
• Nursing and Mental Health: The Invisible Battle
• Dissecting the Influence of Nurses in Health Promotion
• Palliative Care Nursing: Dealing with End of Life
• Cultural Sensitivity in Nursing: Its Relevance and Impact
• Legal Issues and Responsibilities in Nursing Profession
• Implications of Chronic Illness Management for Nurses
• The Interplay Between Nursing and Health Policy
• Evolution of the Nursing Profession: A Historical Perspective
• Home Health Care: The Role of Nurses in Community
• Quality Improvement Initiatives: Nursing’s Contribution
• Emergency Nursing: Thriving in High-Pressure Situations

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GED Extended Response Essay Prompts & Examples

A quick guide to writing an extended response for the ged language arts test.

GED® Reading & Writing Practice Test ( 25 Questions )

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Check out our other Free GED© Practice Test

Many students fear the writing part of the GED test. And we understand. After all, it takes effort and time to organize your ideas, fix sentence structures, and ensure that grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling are correct. With only 45 minutes to complete your essay, how will you be able to finish your piece? Thankfully, there are ways to make this part easy for you. You don’t have to be a gifted writer to write succeed in writing a winning essay for the Extended Response portion of the GED writing test. There are tips to succeed in writing your essay.

Start reviewing with our helpful contents: GED Reasoning Through Language Arts Guide

What’s in the GED Writing Extended Response Portion of the Test?

This test will check how well you create arguments and use evidence. Also, it would also test your clarity and command of Standard English language.

Quick Tips to Remember When Writing Your Essay:

• Take a deep breath. Nervous about the test? Ease anxiety by taking deep breaths before writing your essay. Being stressed while writing might keep your focus away from the task and affect the quality of your essay.
• Read the two passages carefully . Make sure you understand each passage before choosing your position.
• Make an outline . Don’t write right away. Create an outline first. Choose a position that you can easily defend based on what you’ve read, then list down the main points to support this position.
• Your essay should have:
• 1. An introduction that states your main argument 2. At least 3 paragraphs with your supporting evidence 3. A conclusion that restates your main argument and main points.
• Focus on the first and last paragraphs first . This will help you stick to your argument and main points.
• Be clear . The paragraphs in between your first and last paragraphs should clearly explain your main points. Start each paragraph by stating the main point that you want to talk about.
• Proofread your work . Check your work for grammar and spelling errors. Improve sentence structures with the time that’s left.

Keep in mind that the saying, “practice makes perfect” applies here. Mastering essay writing takes a lot of practice and reading. Begin practicing your writing as well improving your comprehension skills with our Free GED Practice Tests for Language Arts. We also recommend reading high-quality newspapers, publications, and literary pieces to help build your English writing skills.

Related Topics:

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• GED Reasoning through Language Arts
• GED Reasoning through Language Art PRACTICE TEST
• GED Math Practice Questions | Fractions
• GED® Reasoning Through Language Arts Practice Tests
• GED Science Practice Questions | GED Study Guide

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GED Essay: Everything You Need To Know In 2024

Learn all you need to know about the GED essay, its structure sample, topics, tips, and how it is scored in this post.

January 1, 2022

The GED essay is intimidating to many people. Writing an entire essay from scratch in 45 minutes or less may seem difficult, but it does not have to be. This GED essay writing overview will help you prepare for and learn about the written section of the exam . In this post, Get-TestPrep will show everything you need to know about GED essays , including their structure, sample topics, tips, and how they are stored .

What Is The GED Essay?

The GED exam consists of four subjects : Mathematical Reasoning, Social Studies, Science, and Language Arts Reasoning (RLA ). The GED extended response , sometimes known as the GED essay, is one of the two portions of the RLA subject test. You’ll have 45 minutes to finish the essay to your best capacity. Don’t worry if you don’t finish on time! Because the essay accounts for just 20% of your ultimate RLA score, you can still pass the test even if you don’t receive a high essay score.

The GED extended response can cover a wide range of topics, but it will always be formatted in the same way. You will be assigned two articles on the same topic, which will typically be argumentative essays with a firm position. You’ll be asked to assess the two arguments and create your own argumentative essay based on which article delivered the more compelling argument. The essay should be three to five paragraphs long, with each paragraph including three to seven sentences.

GED Essay Structure

An introduction, a body, and a conclusion are included in every well-written GED essay. You have to write an argument or an argumentative essay. Keep in mind that you are not expressing your own view on the subject. You’re analyzing two of the author’s points of view and determining which one is more compelling. Keep in mind that the Extended Response (GED Essay) is graded by machine intelligence that has been designed to detect the right responses. So, instead of trying to be creative, simply be accurate. Also:

• Make sure you’re using proper grammar and sentence structure.
• Practice writing a 300-500 word essay.

Let’s take a look at the format of a GED Essay : an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

• The introduction outlines your claim or thesis statement and explains the topic you’re writing about. Maintain your position.
• The body of the essay includes facts and arguments to back up your claim. This section of the response should be at least two paragraphs long.
• The concluding paragraph restates your claim and summarises your important points.

GED Essay Topic Examples

Here are a few GED Essay Topics to get you started:

Topic 1: An Analysis of Daylight-Saving Time

The article presents arguments from proponents and opponents of Daylight Saving Time, who disagree on the practice’s impact on energy consumption and safety.

Topic 2: Should the Penny Stay in Circulation?

Analyze the arguments offered and pick which one has the most support.

Topic 3: Is Golf a Sport?

Golf , according to proponents, satisfies the criteria of “sport.” Opponents argue that golf more closely resembles a “game” than a “sport.” Analyze both points of view to see which one has the most support.

Visit our website for more topics as well as full articles on each topic and take our free latest FREE GED practice test 2024 to get ready for your exam!

GED Essay Examples

Getting to know the GED essay sample  can assist you in planning your essay and determining which elements are most vital.

When reading the essay topic, you should truly take your time to collect your views. You will be able to articulate your views better on paper if you organize your thoughts properly. Concentrate on the standards that you learned in English class before you begin writing.

Pay attention to how you use the English language (grammar); you must use proper punctuation and capitalization, and you must use appropriate word solutions.

Tips For Writing Your GED Essay

Make sure you carefully read the stimulus and prompt.

Putting this into practice is an excellent idea. Examine each question carefully and set aside some time to determine the topic and the type of response that will be requested. It is critical to read the questions thoroughly. Students frequently skip past the stimulus and prompt and get right into writing, assuming that they will save time this way. 

This is, by far, the most uninteresting thing to do. Take a few moments to attempt to fully comprehend the questions so that you can reply accurately. If you like, underline the important words and phrases in the stimulus so you can go over it again later to make sure you’re on track.

Make a rough outline for the GED language arts essay

In general, planning your essay will only take a few minutes, but it is critical that you spend that time. Make an outline of the essay and follow it as soon as you have a complete understanding of the questions and have scribbled down some early ideas.

Make an outline for your introduction, body, and conclusion. Following this procedure will save you a lot of time and aid in the development of a logical thought process.

Keep your focus on the topic

To describe your evidence, each paragraph in the body of your response should explain why a piece of evidence supports your claim or disputes the opposing claim. You have the option of describing or restarting it. This demonstrates that you know exactly what it means and how it applies to your claim. Refer to the specifics or facts of a certain issue that you’ve discussed and tie them to your claim.

Include evidence from both passages in your response, and explain why strong evidence supports one thesis and why flawed evidence undermines the other.

Revision and proofreading

By the time you’ve finished writing your essay, you should go back to the beginning and reread it attentively, since you may easily have missed a comma or misspelled a term while doing so.

Pay great attention when rereading your essay to see if it has well-targeted arguments, is arranged properly, contains particular information and facts, has good sentence construction, and has no grammatical or spelling mistakes.

Learn more about how to practice GED essays as well as the whole Language Arts section in GED Language Arts Study Guide  

How To Write a GED Essay?

When writing the GED essay, you should allocate the time as follows:

• 3 minutes to read the directions and the topic
• 5 minutes of prewriting (freewriting, brainstorming , grouping, mapping, etc.)
• 3 minutes to organize (create a thesis statement or controlling idea, and summarize important points)
• 20 minutes to draft (write the essay)
• 8 minutes to revise (go over the essay and make adjustments to concepts)
• 6 minutes to edit (check for grammatical and spelling errors). 

How Your GED Essay Is Scored?

Smart machines that are designed to detect the right answers score your GED essay. So don’t try to be creative; just be accurate.

They will evaluate your essay based on five factors.

• Organization : did you give a well-thought-out approach to writing your essay and were you clear on the main idea?
• Clear and swift response: Did you deal with the matter appropriately, without straying from one emphasis point to another, with a clear and quick response?
• Progress and specifics: instead of utilizing lists or repeating the same material, did you use relevant instances and particular details to expound on your initial notions or arguments?
• Grammar Rules of English: Did you apply proper writing strategies such as sentence structure, spelling, punctuation, syntax, and grammar, and did you shape and revise your essay after you finished the initial draft?
• Word choice : How well did you pick and use appropriate phrases to express your points of view?

Your 45 minutes will fly by, so focus on these key elements to get the best score possible. What is more important is to state unequivocally which side is more popular. Check that your phrases are clear and that your paragraphs are organized logically.

Each of the four modules (independent subtests) in Mathematical Reasoning (Math), Reasoning via Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies can be taken independently. To pass the subtest(s) for which you registered, you must study thoroughly and be efficient on test day. Consider taking our GED Language Arts Practice Test for the Language Arts section.

GED essay writing can be difficult, but you can keep a list of everything you need to know and switch to proper essay writing approaches before the exam. Simply practice a lot and you’ll notice that it gets better over time. So you’ve learned everything there is to know about writing the GED Essay .

How to write an essay for the GED?

• Read through all of the instructions.
• Create an outline.
• Make a list of all the evidence.
• Last, write your introduction.
• Write first, then edit.
• Make use of formal language.
• Don’t look at the time.

Is there an essay portion on the GED test?

How is the ged essay graded.

The essay is graded on a four-point scale by two certified GED essay readers. The scores of the two GED readers are averaged. If the essay achieves a score of 2 or above, it is merged with the language arts multiple-choice score to generate a composite result.

Final Words

In conclusion, this guide on the GED essay provides valuable insights and strategies to help you excel in the GED essay section. By understanding the structure of the GED essay , practicing effective writing techniques, and familiarizing yourself with the scoring rubric, you can approach the GED essay with confidence and achieve a successful outcome. Remember to plan your essay, organize your thoughts, and support your ideas with relevant examples and evidence. Additionally, refining your grammar and punctuation skills will enhance the overall quality of your writing. With consistent practice and a thorough understanding of the expectations for the GED essay, you can showcase your writing abilities and earn a strong score on the GED essay.

Eligibility Requirements For GED In District of Columbia

November 25, 2022

Eligibility Requirements For GED In New York

Eligibility Requirements For GED In Wyoming

You may learn more about how to obtain a GED in Wyoming by reading the answers to the questions related to GED requirements in Wyoming we receive below.

September 19, 2022

70 GED Essay Topics

The GED, or General Educational Development, is a credential that is awarded to students who choose not to finish high school but still need to prove that they have the skills necessary to place into college-level courses.

The GED test is split into four sections: writing, reading, math, and science. Each section is multiple choice save for the RLA section, which requires students to craft an essay response to a given prompt within 45 minutes.

What Type of GED Essay Will Be Required?

Typically, students taking the GED test will need to write an argumentative, persuasive, or informative essay.

An argumentative essay will require the test taker to support their opinion with evidence and reasoning.

A persuasive essay will require the test taker to convince the reader of their point of view using evidence and reasoning.

An informative essay will only require the student to provide information without giving an opinion or persuading anyone.

The prompt will offer insight into the best essay type to choose, so it is best to pay close attention to the prompt when reading.

GED Essay Rubric: Determining the Quality of Your Essay

This essay can be tricky to write if you aren’t familiar with academic requirements, so it’s best to use a GED essay rubric as a guide.

A GED essay rubric is simply a list of criteria that you can use to evaluate your responses. You can think of it as a frame for your writing. If your essay meets the requirements in each area, then you’ve done all you need to do, and your answer is complete.

However, keep in mind that while the rubric is important, it doesn’t act as a replacement for your own critical thinking. Instead, it’s there to help you assess your work at the end of the writing process and give you an idea of how well you did.

For example, let’s say you were asked to write an essay about what makes healthy relationships. Here are the criteria you should have covered in your essay:

Introduction

The introduction should include a thesis statement that states what you will discuss within your paper. This allows the reader to understand where you are heading early on in your writing process. You can also use it as an opportunity to establish common ground with your audience, which is especially important if your essay is going to be discussing a controversial topic.

In the case of our healthy relationships essay, you might start by talking about what most people would consider to be a healthy relationship. This could be anything from having common interests and mutual respect to communicating openly and honestly.

The body of your essay is where you will go into more depth on the subject, whether that be by drawing examples from personal experience or providing research to support your argument.

Your writing should always begin with a topic sentence that states exactly what your supporting idea is. This allows the reader to follow along easily and ensures that all of your thoughts are cohesive and organized.

The conclusion should summarize everything that you talked about in your essay. Of course, it’s a good idea to restate your thesis statement, but you can also use it as an opportunity to provide your own thoughts on the topic. For example, in the case of our healthy relationships essay, you might want to say something like:

“Healthy relationships build people up, not tear them down. This could be ones where people share similar interests, communicate openly and honestly, or respect one another’s personal space. However, not everyone will agree on what makes a relationship healthy, which is why it’s important to realize that there are many different opinions on the matter.”

It’s important to remember that each section of your essay should be cohesive and work together to create a full picture for the reader. Your introduction leads into your body, which leads to your conclusion, just like a good story would. If you don’t do this, your essay will seem choppy and unfinished.

How Can I Prepare for the Essay Writing Section of the GED Test?

Since the content of your essay will depend on the writing prompt given during the test, it can be difficult to prepare for the writing section. However, there are some things you can do to better equip yourself for test day.

For example, you should make sure that you practice writing under timed conditions. This will help to simulate the stress of the test and ensure that you can still produce quality work under pressure.

You should also make sure to read over practice writing prompts ahead of time. This will give you a sense of what the test may ask and help you determine the best answers for them.

To help practice writing skills and timed essay writing, consider using the following GED essay prompts as part of your preparation.

GED Essay Topics About Relationships & Family

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of large vs. small families?
• Discuss the positive and negative effects of sports on relationships.
• What is the best way to handle a disagreement with a loved one?
• What are some tips for maintaining a healthy relationship?
• How can people improve their communication skills?
• What makes a successful long-term relationship?
• Can technology interfere with interpersonal relationships?
• Why do teen relationships often end in disaster?
• Is it better to be single or in a relationship?
• What are the benefits of staying single?
• How can people tell if they’re ready for a committed relationship?
• How do different cultures view relationships?
• What is an open relationship?
• Compare the benefits and drawbacks of polyamory?
• What are some signs that a relationship is unhealthy?
• How can people make their relationships more fulfilling?

GED Essay Topics About Political Science

• What are the responsibilities of citizens during an election?
• How can people get involved in politics at their local level?
• How does voting impact our government?
• To what extent do lobbyists influence public officials?
• What is gridlock, and how does it affect Washington DC?
• Why did voter turnout decline in the 2016 presidential election?
• How can people stay informed about current events?
• Why is social media so influential in politics?
• What are some important facts to consider before voting?
• How has technology changed the way campaigns are run?
• What are some of the political repercussions of global warming?
• Who should be responsible for protecting the environment, corporations or politicians?
• What are some of the most important responsibilities of a president?
• How does a democracy differ from authoritarianism?
• What are some causes and effects of political corruption?
• How has social media impacted politics?
• What effect can social media have on civil unrest or riots?
• How do historians determine if a political leader was effective or not?
• Why is it important to study history?

GED Essay Topics About Education

• What is the most important thing students should learn in school?
• How can schools better prepare students for college and careers?
• What makes a good teacher?
• How do different teaching methods impact student learning?
• Should schools start later in the morning?
• What are the benefits of homeschooling?
• What is the best way to discipline students?
• How can schools create a safe and positive learning environment for all students?
• Should standardized tests be eliminated?
• How does technology impact student learning?
• What are some ways schools can save money?
• Should teachers be paid more?
• What makes a good school district?
• What are some ways to improve education in the United States?
• Should students have more say in what they learn in school?
• How can schools better prepare students for the real world?
• What is the value of a college education?

GED Essay Topics About Social Issues

• What is the best way to handle bullying?
• What is the cause of social anxiety?
• How does society benefit from having homeless people?
• What are some solutions for ending poverty?
• How can we reduce crime rates in our communities?
• Are there positive aspects to social media addiction?
• What effects does war have on society?
• What should be done about the increasing number of refugees?
• How can we reduce the amount of violence in our society?
• What is the root cause of racism?
• What are the effects of sexism and gender discrimination?
• Is social media tearing us apart or bringing us closer together?
• Should everyone have the same rights and opportunities?
• How can we create a more tolerant society?
• What are some solutions for poverty and homelessness?
• How does technology impact social issues?
• What can be done to reduce the number of guns in society?
• Should we allow refugees into our country?

With these 70 GED writing prompts, students can get in the essential practice needed to complete the essay writing section of the test within the allotted time. The prompts can also be used as a study tool to help students better understand the types of topics covered on the exam. By following these tips, students can feel more confident and prepared when taking the GED writing test.

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Testimonials

How to Write & Pass a GED Essay

By: Jen Denton, Student Success Coach on January 3, 2023 at 3:21 AM

The GED essay intimidates a lot of people. Writing a whole essay from scratch in 45 minutes or less can be tough, but it doesn't have to be. This GED essay writing guide will help you know what to expect and how to pass the written portion of the test. Learn all about the GED extended response with examples, tips, and a breakdown of everything you'll be graded on.

Table of Contents

What is the ged essay, example ged essay questions, example ged essay, ged essay practice, ged essay structure, how is the ged essay scored, 8 tips to help you pass the ged essay.

The GED test is made up of four subjects: mathematical reasoning, social studies, science, and reasoning through language arts (RLA). The RLA subject test includes two parts, one of which is the GED extended response, sometimes called the GED essay. You will have 45 minutes to complete the essay to the best of your ability. If you don’t finish in time, don’t worry! The essay is only worth 20% of your final RLA score, so you can still pass the test even if you don’t get a high score on the essay.

The extended response can be on a variety of topics, but it will always follow the same format. You will be given two different articles on the same topic, usually argumentative essays with a firm position. You will be asked to evaluate the two arguments and write your own argumentative essay determining which article presented the strongest position. The essay should be 3-5 paragraphs long, with each paragraph between 3-7 sentences.

All GED essay questions will ask you to read and evaluate two passages that take different stances on the same topic. Essays should determine which passage presents a stronger argument and back up that claim with analysis of evidence from the passages.

Here is an example GED essay question:

Analyze the arguments presented in the press release and the letter to the editor. In your response, develop an argument in which you explain how one position is better supported than the other. Incorporate relevant and specific evidence from both sources to support your argument.

Remember, the better-argued position is not necessarily the position with which you agree. This task should take approximately 45 minutes to complete. 1

1  "Extended Response Scoring - GED." https://ged.com/wp-content/uploads/extended_response_scoring.pdf . Accessed 25 Feb. 2021.

The following is an example high scoring essay:

Both the press release and the letter to the editor offer positions that are supported by both fact and opinion. The press release seeks to exhort the new bill for expansion of Highway 17, while the letter argues that the passing of the bill could prove detrimental to the district. While both sides make an acceptable case, the latter provides a stronger argument.

One example of the letter’s stronger argument is the explanation that federal tax dollars pay for the road, as it will incorporate six different states, therefore eliminating this particular state’s ability to strike the bill down. This proves, with factual information, that the district did not have a fair say in the bill. The notion that few residents will use the road that their tax dollars are providing is an opinion. However, a resident and small-business owner in the town is more credible in the awareness of the town’s concern, as compared to a representative who attended a few meetings in the town hall.

Another example of the better supported argument in the letter is the reference to the construction jobs as temporary. The press release praises the new jobs created by the highway construction, as this is a valid point. However, the author of the letter is correct in the fact that the jobs will not create a boom in the district’s economy, or fill in the gap caused by the closures in the manufacturing plants, as the press release leads listeners to believe. The road construction does not solve the long-term issue of unemployment in the town. In addition, the author of the letter counters the argument that new motels, restaurants, and gas stations along the highway will create permanent jobs for the residents of the town. She explains that, “…only minimum wage jobs will remain.” This is a valid argument also, as unemployed residents that need enough income to support a household would not be much better off. Providing restaurant or motel jobs is very unlikely to feed or support an entire family. It will not pick up the laid-off employees of the manufacturing plants, who may have worked for many years towards promotions and a pension.

Another example of the letter’s stronger argument is the author’s explanation of the 2001 study. She concedes that the representative is correct in citing that bypasses are proven to reduce noise and traffic in town, but she argues that the study shows a negative effect on local businesses. This piece of the study was not mentioned by Representative Walls or the press release, and it is a proven fact. This draws more credibility to the argument in the letter. Also, although it is a speculation, it is more reasonable that traveler’s will stick to the main highway and not venture miles off their path into small town when chain gas stations, restaurants, and motels are conveniently located directly at the highway exits. It is less likely that old roads in the towns will become historical locations, attracting tourists and boosting small business sales.

Despite the argument and evidence given by the press release, it appears that the letter to the editor offers a stronger case. The author’s ideas are backed up by logical explanations and facts with a few speculations. Though the press release offers some fact, it is mainly specked with anticipations and hopes, driven to overshadow any doubts and quell any concerns. The letter is penned by a resident of the town and owner of a business, subject to firsthand opinions of the citizens of the district. The press release is pushed by an elected representative who, upon visiting the town a number of times and consulting a small percentage of the constituents, is convinced she understands the majority. Although both parties may very well have the best interests of the district in mind, and either position could be correct, it is clear that the letter provides a better-supported argument. 2

2  "Extended Response Scoring - GED." https://ged.com/wp-content/uploads/extended_response_scoring.pdf . Accessed 25 Feb. 2021.

For GED essay practice, try writing your own essay based on the example above. Set a timer for 45 minutes and do your best to write an essay with your own analysis and ideas.

You can practice more writing skills with this free test or enroll today in the GED Academy to get access to more GED essay prompts and personalized feedback from GED Essay graders.

The structure for the GED essay can take a few different forms, depending on how you decide to organize your ideas. No matter what, it should include an introduction paragraph, 1-3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph. To receive a passing score, your essay must present a clear topic supported by details from both passages. Include your main idea in an introductory paragraph. In middle paragraphs, make connections between your details and your main idea. Your conclusion should also fit logically with the details.

The introduction should demonstrate your understanding of the overall topic based on the passages you read and a claim. The claim is a statement of your argument. It doesn’t need to go into detail, but should state your essay’s position on the questions presented.

The body paragraphs will go into more detail. They will include a combination of summary, analysis, and evidence to back up your claim. Be sure to include analysis of both passages.

The conclusion should explain the result of your findings and reinforce your original claim.

You can earn up to six points on the GED extended response. There are three main categories your essay is graded on, and you can earn up to two points for each.

Creation of arguments and use of evidence: Craft a strong claim and use analysis of the arguments and evidence from the passages to support it.

Development of ideas and organizational structure: Write a substantial essay with clear transitions between ideas, including a strong introduction and conclusion.

Clarity and command of standard English conventions: Use appropriate language and demonstrate strong language and grammar skills.

The extended response accounts for 20% of the total RLA score.

• Read all the instructions. The most common reason people score low on the essay is because they misunderstand the prompt.
• Make an outline. After reading the passages and the prompt, write down your ideas and organize them during your pre-writing.
• Make a list of evidence. When you read the passages, take notes on the important details you want to remember later, so you don’t have to spend time searching for it later.
• Write your introduction last. A lot of people get tripped up by how to start the essay. If that’s you, just skip this step and go back to it once you’ve written the rest of the essay.
• Write first, edit later. You only have 45 minutes, so use your time wisely. Write your first draft of the essay before you start fine-tuning and editing it. Save that for your remaining time so you don’t turn in a half-written essay.
• Use formal language. Avoid “I” statements like, “I think” or casual language like slang.
• Don’t check the clock. Time always seems to go faster when you need it to go slow. Every time you look at the clock, that’s breaking your focus on your essay.
• Practice! The only way to get better at writing essays is to write more essays. Practice using the GED Writing Practice Test , and remember to time yourself!

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Home > High School Equivalency > GED > GED Reasoning Language Arts (RLA) Practice Test

GED Reasoning Language Arts (RLA) Practice Test

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Congrats on taking our GED RLA sample quiz. Take our full GED RLA diagnostic exam below to see if you are ready for your exam or not.

1 . Question

Determine whether the underlined portion of the sentence below is correct or whether it needs to be revised.

For homes in typically colder geographic regions , it is particularly important to have effective and efficient heating systems.

• a. For homes in typically colder geographic regions
• b. For people in homes in typically colder geographic regions
• c. For homes in typically cold geographic regions
• d. People in typically colder geographic regions
• e. Homes in typically colder geographic regions

2 . Question

Inside the glove compartment were legal documents, pictures,  and there were a few napkins from the coffee shop, but no gloves.

• a. and there were a few napkins from the coffee shop, but no gloves.
• b. and there were a few napkins from the coffee shop, but not any gloves.
• c. and napkins from the coffee shop, no gloves were there.
• d. and napkins from the coffee shop, but no gloves.
• e. and napkins from the coffee shop, there were no gloves.

3 . Question

Concerns about global warming have grown into actual efforts sanctioned by non-governmental organizations and governments that not only work to  understand global warming and also to prevent it.

• a. understand global warming and also to prevent it.
• b. understand global warming but also to prevent it.
• c. understand global warming yet also to prevent it.
• d. understand global warming but also to prevent its growth.
• e. understand global warming yet also to prevent it’s growth.

4 . Question

Technology is rapidly expanding the scope of capabilities for both professional and personal use; such is the case with smart phones. Professionals now have devices available to them capable of digital media, internet access, phone communication, multi-person scheduling and office tools for documents and presentations. Businesspeople that are often mobile may maximize the use of these critical features on smart phones. Individuals who simply enjoy the luxury of multi-function devices often use these devices for frivolous pursuits such as downloading catchy ring tones, instant messaging about the latest gossip and looking up the world record for most cans crushed on one’s head during the Superbowl. This fusion of capabilities and increased availability of such devices could be a sign of a growing blend in society between work and personal life, or individuals could simply be taking a luxurious approach to their connectivity in personal lives.

The term “frivolous” implies that the author

• a. is fascinated by the endless capabilities on smart phones.
• b. hopes that technology ceases to expand its scope.
• c. believes that the average individual does not need a smart phone.
• d. has a smart phone.
• e. wants to see more developments added to smart phone technology.

5 . Question

What is the purpose of the conclusion sentence?

• a. Draw a conclusion about what we know smart phones can do
• b. Assume where technology is headed and how it will affect society
• c. Comment on human connectivity through the use of smart phones
• d. Predict how the government will regulate and guide future technology
• e. Present two possible explanations for the growing popularity of smart phones

6 . Question

But man is not destined to vanish. He can be killed, but he cannot be destroyed, because his soul is deathless and his spirit is irrepressible. Therefore, though the situation seems dark in the context of the confrontation between the superpowers, the silver lining is provided by amazing phenomenon that the very nations which have spent incalculable resources and energy for the production of deadly weapons are desperately trying to find out how they might never be used. They threaten each other, intimidate each other and go to the brink, but before the total hour arrives they withdraw from the brink.

The main point from the author’s view is that

• a. Man's soul and spirit can not be destroyed by superpowers.
• b. Man's destiny is not fully clear or visible.
• c. Man's soul and spirit are immortal.
• d. Man's safety is assured by the delicate balance of power in terms of nuclear weapons.
• e. Human society will survive despite the serious threat of total annihilation.

7 . Question

The phrase ‘Go to the brink’ in the passage means

• a. Retreating from extreme danger.
• b. Declare war on each other.
• c. Advancing to the stage of war but not engaging in it.
• d. Negotiate for peace.
• e. Commit suicide.

8 . Question

In the author’s opinion

• a. Huge stockpiles of destructive weapons have so far saved mankind from a catastrophe.
• b. Superpowers have at last realized the need for abandoning the production of lethal weapons.
• c. Mankind is heading towards complete destruction.
• d. Nations in possession of huge stockpiles of lethal weapons are trying hard to avoid actual conflict.
• e. There is a silver lining over the production of deadly weapons.

GED RLA Prep Course (100% Pass Guarantee)

Diagnostic ged language arts practice test.

Take our GED language arts practice test below. It is a diagnostic exam, so you will get a good idea of how well prepared you are.

Utilize our answer explanations to learn how to solve the problems.

If you want to practice other subjects, visit our  GED practice test  home.

GED Language Arts Overview

The GED language arts test includes 3 main topics:

• Reading for Meaning (35%)
• Identifying and Creating Arguments (45%)
• Grammar and Language (20%)

You will have 150 minutes to complete this portion of the GED exam. Of the 150 minutes, 3 minutes will be slotted for instructions and final review, 10 minutes for a break between parts 2 and 3, and 45 minutes dedicated for the written essay.

In terms of format on the GED language arts test, there are 3 sections. Question types include multiple-choice, drag and drop, select an area, and drop-down questions. 1 of the 3 sections is a written essay (extended response).

You can practice for the other sections of the exam by visiting our free GED practice test home. Here is the official GED RLA page .

Frequently Asked Questions

How many questions are on the ged language arts section.

The number of questions varies, but you can expect there to be around 46 questions and a written essay.

What is a passing score for the GED language arts section?

You will need to score a 145 or higher to pass this section of the exam. For more information, read our guide to  GED scores .

What kind of topics are tested on GED language arts?

There are 3 main topics tested. Those 3 topics are reading for meaning, identifying and creating arguments, and grammar and language.

• Authored By: Dave Evangelisti
• Last Updated: July 12, 2024

Language Arts Extended Response

Videos: how to write a great ged extended response.

Overview of the GED Extended Response Format (1:28)

How to Pass the GED Extended Response (3:14)

How to Determine Which Position is Best Supported (2:49)

How to Write a Well-Supported Argument (4:21)

How to Make a Plan and Write an Introduction (3:25)

How to Write the Body and Conclusion (4:47)

How to Write a Fully Supported Response (3:34)

How to Check and Revise Your Response (2:58)

Understand How Your Response is Scored (3:14)

Extended Response Resources

EXTENDED RESPONSE

Answer Guidelines

Example of a perfect score.

GED Essay Tips & Strategies

Most of the GED Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) exam is multiple-choice, but there is also one “Extended Response” question. This question requires you to write a short essay in response to two passages of text. The passages will present two different viewpoints on a topic. You must read both of the passages and then decide which argument is best supported . Your essay should include evidence from both passages to prove that one of the authors crafts a better argument.

Please note that you are not being asked to write about which opinion is correct or which opinion you believe to be true. You are being asked to write about which passage best supports its claims. You will have 45 minutes total to read the prompt, read the passages provided, and to draft your essay.

Essay Quick Tips

• Begin your paragraphs with topic sentences that separate your major ideas and keep your argument organized.
• Utilize logical transition words/phrases to seamlessly move from one paragraph to the next.
• Use correct spelling and proper grammar.
• Vary your sentence structure and incorporate appropriate, advanced vocabulary words.
• Stay on topic! Create an outline prior to beginning your essay to organize your thoughts.

Essay Scoring

Your GED essay will be evaluated across three areas:

• Analysis of Arguments and Use of Evidence.
• Development of Ideas and Organizational Structure.
• Clarity and Command of Standard English Conventions.

The task may seem intimidating, but you more than likely already have these skills! Your essay will receive three scores—one for each of the listed areas.

Since you only have 45 minutes, you must make sure to effectively utilize your time. The best way to accomplish this is by practicing essays under the same 45-minute time limit.

Writing Guidelines

Rely upon these timing guidelines as you write your GED essay:

• PLAN — Spend 10 minutes reading the source material and organizing your essay response.
• PRODUCE — Spend 30 minutes writing your (ideally) 5-paragraph essay.
• PROOFREAD — Save 5 minutes for re-reading what you wrote and making necessary changes and improvements.

Remember, since you are typing your essay on the computer screen, proofreading and editing can be done much more quickly than if you were reading over a handwritten essay! Five minutes may not seem like much, but you should be able to read the entire essay over at least once and correct any obvious spelling or grammatical mistakes.

Pro-tip: Don’t start writing until you have every paragraph planned out! Outlining your argument is the best method for producing a coherent and cogent response.

Since the GED RLA extended response is graded by the ACS (Automated Scoring Engine), it is relatively easy to score well if you rely on the organization of a good essay template. Here are a few quick tips regarding clarity to help you score as highly as possible on the GED RLA Extended Response:

Essay Template

Paragraph 1 — Introduction

Start with a 1-sentence general statement regarding the topic. Show that you understand the argument(s) by identifying the topic and its significance, and then present a bold and concise thesis statement; Consider the following example thesis:

Though the first passage highlights important considerations regarding (the topic of) ________, ultimately the second passage is better supported and more convincing.

Paragraphs 2, 3, and 4 — Body Paragraphs

When you plan your essay, you should formulate your thesis (choosing which side you found to be best-supported), and carefully lay out three major reasons why it is best-supported. Each of your body paragraphs should explore one of these ideas.

Use specific examples to support your point of view. Pull selections from the argument you are stating is best supported, and explain why they are good supporting examples, or why they make valid points of consideration.

Each body paragraph should only focus on one major idea, and the 1–2 selections from the passage that support that idea. Try to keep the paragraphs between 4–6 sentences so that they are succinct, direct, and clear. Avoid excessive wordiness; more is not always better!

Paragraph 5 — Conclusion

In 2–3 sentences, wrap up your thoughts, reiterate the accuracy of your thesis (why the argument you chose is better-supported), and leave the reader with an idea of WHY they should give more consideration to the topic. You can also use the conclusion to offer a degree of concession to the opposing argument, conceding that there are one or two good qualities of the other passage, before echoing that the passage you selected is ultimately better-supported and more convincing.

Finally, don’t worry about choosing the “wrong” side. It doesn’t matter which side you choose, just be sure that you can quote specific examples from the source texts to support your ideas!

Now, review our sample prompt and practice writing an essay!

GED Essay Prompt >>

GED Essay Sample Response

Below is a sample response to our GED Essay Practice Question . Review this response to develop familiarity with the structure of a high-scoring essay. You may notice that this essay follows the template that’s featured in our GED Essay Writing Guide . At the end of this response, there is a short commentary that explains why this is an effective essay and why it would receive a perfect score.

The writer of the pro-recycling passage, unlike the writer of the anti-recycling passage, employs excellent logical reasoning to convince the audience, explaining that recycling is more than simply placing paper and plastic in their proper bins; it is an “involved process of harvesting, transporting, building and shipping.” The author proves that recycling is logical by detailing how much waste is produced when goods are created from scratch, driving home her logical argument with the simple question: “Why cut down a forest instead of recycling paper?”

To lend even more credibility to her already logical argument, the writer includes statistics relevant to recycling. In a clear, bullet-pointed list of data showing the importance of recycling, she provides relevant and useful information: “It takes 95% less energy to recycle aluminum than it does to make it from raw materials.” Recycling aluminum is worth the effort because making new aluminum is less efficient, and the writer has data to prove it. The writer goes on to list four more pieces of data to support her argument while the writer of the other passage only provides one.

Finally, the writer’s purposeful ethical plea in the pro-recycling passage more effectively calls the audience to action. By writing, “It is the morally sound thing to do to protect our beautiful planet for future generations,” the writer conjures images of clear blue skies and clean shining seas, helping the reader emotionally connect to the argument. If we do not recycle, the writer implies, we will be committing a sin against future generations. The writer finishes her argument with a passionate and motivating plea to the audience: “Please make sure you recycle!”

  Commentary

This sample essay would receive a perfect score on the GED. The writer clearly reviewed the prompt and outlined the argument before writing. Generally, the response exhibits the following organization:

• Paragraph 1 — Introduction
• Paragraph 2 — Logical reasoning
• Paragraph 3 — Statistics
• Paragraph 4 — Ethics
• Paragraph 5 — Conclusion

The introduction clearly previews the passage’s topic, explains both sides, and demonstrates that the student understands each writer’s argument. The student uses strong, clear language and concludes with a bold thesis statement that lists three reasons why the argument he or she chose is “better-supported.”

In the body paragraphs, the student demonstrates a strong command of each of the scoring criteria:

• Analysis of Arguments and Use of Evidence: The student quotes multiple sections of the passage to support each point, demonstrating a clear understanding of the material presented.
• Development of Ideas and Structure: The student develops coherent organization by focusing on a supporting reason in each body paragraph and providing transitions like “In addition to” and “Finally” to help the paragraphs flow together.
• Clarity and Command of Standard English: The sentence structure is varied and effective, and the author maintains proper spelling and grammar throughout.

Finally, the passage concludes with a brief concession to the opposing side, showing an ability to recognize the complexity of the issue, before wrapping up the discussion with a summation of why the pro-recycling passage is better-supported than the anti-recycling passage.

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