The Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) section of the GED includes an Extended Response essay question, which requires you to write a short essay in response to two passages of text.
These passages present different viewpoints on a topic, and you must decide which argument is better supported. With only 45 minutes to complete this essay, it is crucial to understand the nature of the prompt and develop strategies to craft a well-supported response.
This article will provide you with essential tips, techniques, and a GED study guide to help you succeed in writing a compelling GED essay, from understanding the prompt to organizing your thoughts and using effective language and style.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your essay is clear, coherent, and well-structured, ultimately helping you achieve a high score on the GED RLA Extended Response question.
What is the GED Essay?
The RLA section of the GED test includes an Extended Response essay question. This essay question presents a unique challenge, as it requires you to read and analyze two passages that offer different perspectives on a given topic, and then write an essay explaining which argument is better supported.
What Does the GED Essay Question Look Like?
The GED essay question typically consists of two parts:
- Passage 1: This passage presents one side of the issue, outlining the arguments and evidence in support of a particular viewpoint.
- Passage 2: This passage presents the opposing perspective, providing a counterargument to the position outlined in Passage 1.
Both passages are usually around 200-300 words long and are written at a level appropriate for college-bound high school students.
You will be required to read and analyze two passages presenting different viewpoints, evaluate which argument is better supported, and write a 3-5 paragraph essay explaining your reasoning using evidence from both texts.
You will have 45 minutes total to read the prompt, read the passages provided, and to draft your essay.
NOTE: 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.
How the GED Essay is Scored
Organization
The scoring evaluates whether you clearly presented the essential idea and had a well-structured strategy for composing your essay. This includes having a coherent thesis statement, topic sentences that support the main argument, and a logical flow between paragraphs.
Clear and Focused Response
The scorers assess whether you addressed the prompt directly without shifting between different focal points. Your essay should demonstrate a clear, concise, and consistent response to the given task.
Development and Details
The scoring criteria examine if you provided relevant examples and specific details to elaborate on your original concepts or arguments. Using concrete evidence to support your points is important, rather than just listing information or repeating the same ideas.
Grammar and Mechanics
Your use of proper English writing techniques, such as sentence structure, spelling, punctuation, syntax, and grammar, is evaluated. The scorers also look at whether you edited and polished your essay after the initial draft.
Word Choice
The scoring considers how effectively you selected and employed appropriate words to convey your perspective and ideas. Using precise, sophisticated vocabulary can enhance the quality of your essay.
It’s crucial to remember that your GED essay is scored by automated systems, not human graders. So focus on providing a clear, well-organized, and substantive response that directly addresses the prompt.
Avoid trying to be overly creative – just aim to demonstrate your ability to write a coherent, well-supported essay within the 45-minute time limit.
Consistent practice with a GED test prep program will help you achieve the best possible score on the GED writing test.
Preparing for the GED Essay
Understand the Prompt (5 Minutes)
Effectively preparing for the GED essay prompt requires carefully reading and interpreting the instructions. Here are some tips to help you understand the prompt:
Read Carefully
Take your time to thoroughly read through the prompt. Do not skim or rush this step, as fully comprehending the topic and task is crucial.
Identify Key Terms
Highlight or underline any important keywords or phrases in the prompt. This will help you identify the central issue, the perspectives presented, and the specific requirements of the essay.
Some key terms to look for include:
- The topic or issue being discussed
- Language indicating the type of essay required (e.g. “analyze the arguments”, “explain which is better supported”)
- Specific instructions about what the essay should accomplish
Understand the Task
Determine exactly what the prompt is asking you to do. Is it a persuasive essay where you need to argue for a particular position? An analysis where you evaluate the strength of different arguments? Or something else?
Identify the specific elements the essay should include, such as:
- Analyzing the arguments presented in two passages
- Explaining which argument is better supported
- Using evidence from the passages to support your analysis
Developing a Thesis Statement
The thesis statement is the central argument of your GED essay. It is crucial that you develop a strong, well-supported thesis that clearly communicates your position. Here are some key techniques for crafting an effective thesis statement:
State Your Position
Your thesis statement should clearly state your stance on the issue presented in the prompt. Be unambiguous about which argument you believe is better supported.
Try to ignore your own personal feelings on the topic as you read. Ultimately, your job is to explain why one of the sides is better supported; It’s acceptable to disagree entirely with the side you defend, as long as you justify your position thoroughly.
Include the Topic
Make sure to mention the specific topic or issue that the essay prompt is addressing. This helps provide context for the reader and ensures your thesis is directly relevant to the task.
Be Specific
Avoid vague or general statements in your thesis. Be as specific as possible about the reasons why you believe one position is better supported.
Use Evidence
Incorporate references to specific evidence or examples from the passages to support the reasons you provide for your thesis. This demonstrates your understanding of the texts and strengthens your overall argument.
Planning (5minutes)
- Write down all your ideas without worrying about grammar or spelling.
- List all the points you can think of related to the topic.
- Organize your ideas visually using diagrams.
- Create an outline to structure your essay.
Writing the GED Essay (30 minutes)
The GED essay requires you to demonstrate your ability to craft a well-structured, persuasive response within a 45-minute time frame. Here are some key tips for effectively writing each section of the essay:
Introduction
Your introduction should accomplish three main goals:
- Hook the Reader: Start with an engaging hook, such as a thought-provoking question, surprising statistic, or vivid description, to capture the reader’s attention.
- Provide Background: Briefly introduce the topic and context of the two passages you are analyzing. This helps orient the reader.
- Present Your Thesis: Clearly state your central argument – which position you believe is better supported and why. This thesis statement should be the last sentence of your introduction.
Body Paragraphs
Each body paragraph should focus on developing a specific aspect of your argument:
- Topic Sentence: Begin with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
- Supporting Details: Provide relevant evidence and examples from the two passages to support your claims. Analyze how this evidence strengthens your argument.
- Explanation: Thoroughly explain how the details you’ve provided support your overall thesis. Don’t just present the evidence – make sure to interpret it for the reader.
Remember to stop periodically and refer back to your outline at the top.
Transitioning Between Paragraphs
Use effective transitions to guide the reader smoothly from one idea to the next. Some useful transition words and phrases include:
- “In addition…”
- “Furthermore…”
- “On the other hand…”
- “In contrast…”
- “Specifically…”
- “For example…”
Transitions help maintain the flow and coherence of your essay.
Conclusion
Your conclusion should effectively summarize your essay. You can rephrase your main argument to emphasize your stance and briefly recap the key points from your body paragraphs that support your thesis. Conclude with a thought-provoking final statement or a call to action that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
Reviewing and Editing (5 Minutes)
After writing your essay, refer back to your outline to ensure your response adheres to the planned structure. Check that your thesis statement is clear, each body paragraph follows a logical flow, and your conclusion effectively summarizes your main points.
Check for Coherence and Organization
Evaluate whether your essay is well-organized and the ideas flow coherently from one paragraph to the next. Ensure your transitions between paragraphs are smooth and your overall argument is easy for the reader to follow.
Proofread for Spelling and Grammar
Thoroughly review your essay for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Correct any mistakes in verb tenses, plural markers, and sentence structure. Rewrite any unclear or awkward phrasing to improve clarity.
If you have extra time, carefully proofread your entire essay. This final review allows you to catch any lingering issues and make last-minute improvements.
NOTE: Delete your outline notes to avoid confusion in your final response.
Check Out: Colleges the Accept GED Credential
Essay Practice Question
Instructions
Read
- Read two texts presenting different views on the same topic.
- Both writers argue that their position on the issue is correct.
Plan
- Analyze the two texts to determine which writer presents the stronger case.
- Develop your own argument in which you explain how one position is better supported than the other.
Include relevant and specific evidence from both sources to support your argument
Passage 1
I have been studying the subject of school-uniform requirements and have finally come to a conclusion based on what I have found. According to the literature and studies that I have read, it is wise to require schoolchildren to wear uniforms so that the playing field will be level for all students.
The studies I have read show that when children are required to wear an issued uniform, they all look basically alike. If a uniform is not required, some children will wear more expensive clothes and others will wear hand-me-downs. Studies show that these differences in dress lead to divisions among the students.
Children whose clothes are similar —both the well-to-do and the poorer children—will seek each other out. Children in one group will not associate with children in another group. The resulting class-conscious division can be detrimental to the future of a child’s development. That is the conclusion that I have come to after thinking long and hard about this subject.
Passage 2
I believe in my heart that children should be allowed to express themselves. Even at a young age, being allowed to select the clothes they wear helps children to develop their sense of individualism and identity. This is why I am opposed to requiring uniforms in schools.
Simply dressing children in the same way will not keep some children from associating exclusively with peers who are most like themselves socially and economically. Uniforms just make children feel lost because they do not have the ability to show who they are or who they would like to be.
Requiring uniforms would nip in the bud any sense of creative spirit and would only cause resentment in children who might not feel that way otherwise. I feel it is un-American to require school uniforms and I am opposed to it completely. This is not something that we should be doing to our children!
The truth is that uniforms do not make children equal, as some educators believe; they just stunt their growth.
Essay Response
After reading both passages, I believe Passage A presents a stronger case for the importance of school uniforms in learning institutions. The author incorporates empirical evidence to support their argument. By referencing these studies, Passage A proves the role of uniforms in leveling the playing field among students by eradicating noticeable variations in clothing. The incorporation of empirical evidence adds credibility to the author’s argument, providing a solid foundation for the passage’s claims.
Moreover, Passage A utilizes logical reasoning, allowing the author to explain the various benefits of uniform requirements. As such, the author contends that uniforms can help mitigate social divisions among learners, promoting unity by creating a common identity among them. Furthermore, the passage associates the requirement of uniforms with numerous positive outcomes in student development and interactions. The logical progression reinforces the passage’s overall argument, presenting a clear rationale supporting the use of uniforms in learning institutions.
Further evaluation of the passage reveals that the author recognizes possible counterarguments and addresses them effectively. In this case, Passage A acknowledges the concern among various stakeholders that uniforms may play a role in stifling the individual learners’ expression. However, the passage counters this assertion by highlighting the benefits of social cohesion and equality derived from the utilization of school uniforms. Therefore, by considering and responding to the potential criticisms, Passage A establishes a profound understanding of the issue and concerns in the use of school uniforms, strengthening the author’s point of view.
Lastly, it is evident that Passage A presents the author’s ideas clearly and cohesively. In this case, the passage lays out the justifications for uniform requirements, contending that their utilization is beneficial for students. The author presents these reasons in an organized and logical fashion, enhancing the passage’s coherence and clarity. Accordingly, the presentation of ideas simplifies the readers’ ability to follow and understand the author’s argument, improving its persuasiveness.
Why the Response Earned a Good Score
Clarity of Argument
The essay has a clear thesis statement that directly addresses the prompt: “After reading both passages, I believe Passage A presents a stronger case for the importance of school uniforms in learning institutions.” This thesis is supported throughout the essay with specific examples and reasoning.
Use of Evidence
The response cites several key pieces of evidence from Passage A to support its argument, including:
- The reference to empirical studies showing uniforms help level the playing field among students.
- The explanation of how uniforms can mitigate social divisions and promote unity among students.
- The acknowledgement and effective rebuttal of the counterargument that uniforms stifle individual expression.
Citing these specific examples from the passage strengthens the response’s argument.
Local Organization
The essay is well-organized at the paragraph level. Each body paragraph focuses on a specific piece of evidence or reasoning from Passage A. The paragraphs flow logically from one to the next, with clear transitions. This organization makes the argument easy to follow.
Objectivity
The response maintains an objective, analytical tone throughout. It avoids moralizing language and directly compares the arguments in the two passages. The author acknowledges the counterargument from Passage B but effectively rebuts it using evidence from Passage A. This objectivity enhances the persuasiveness of the argument.
Writing Quality
The essay is well-written with few grammatical or spelling errors. Sentences are clear and concise. The vocabulary is appropriate for an academic essay. The author’s voice comes through clearly. The high quality of writing makes the argument more compelling.
You can access more essay questions and answers in the GED Language Arts Practice test.
FAQS
How to Write a Good Essay in GED?
To write a strong GED essay, focus on understanding the prompt, developing a clear thesis, providing relevant examples, organizing your thoughts logically, and proofreading carefully. Maintain a formal tone, vary your sentence structure, and manage your time effectively during the exam.
With practice and preparation, you can craft a compelling essay that demonstrates your critical thinking and writing skills.
How Many Paragraphs Should a Ged Essay Have?
The GED essay typically requires a 5-paragraph structure, including an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a distinct point that supports your thesis.
Aim to write a concise, well-organized essay that addresses the prompt thoroughly within the time constraints of the exam.
Is the Ged Essay Handwritten or Typed?
For the GED exam, the essay portion is completed using a computer-based testing format. Candidates are provided with an on-screen text editor to type their essay response. This allows for efficient writing, editing, and formatting during the timed exam.
The ability to type the essay, rather than hand write it, can be beneficial as it enables faster composition and the flexibility to easily revise and polish the final product.
Familiarizing yourself with the computer-based essay format is an important part of GED preparation to ensure a smooth and successful test-taking experience.
How Is a Ged Essay Graded?
The GED essay is graded on a scale of 1-4 based on criteria like development of ideas, organization, language use, and conventions. Scorers assess how well you address the prompt, support your points, and demonstrate writing proficiency.
To earn a passing score, you’ll need to craft a coherent, well-structured essay that showcases your critical thinking and communication skills.
Can Prepsaret Help Me with Grammar and Punctuation in My Ged Essays?
Prepsaret provides guidance on grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure to help you write clear and error-free essays. It covers common grammatical mistakes and offers tips for improving sentence clarity and coherence.
Does Prepsaret Offer Practice Essays and Feedback for Improvement?
Yes, Prepsaret provides practice essay prompts similar to those in the GED exam. You can submit your practice essays for feedback and constructive criticism to identify areas for improvement in your writing skills.