ABLE

Equipped for the Future

Equipped for the Future is the framework of the curriculum at Hamilton City Adult Basic and Literacy Education.  Our FREE program focuses on what adults need to know and be able to do in order to carry out their roles and responsibilities as workers, parents and family members, and citizens and community members. ABLE students strengthen communication skills, decision making skills, interpersonal skills, and lifelong learning skills.

• Basic Skills Update is available for all adults to improve reading, writing, and math skills.  Teachers help students prepare for exams such as WorkKeys, Compass, and Civil Service.
• GED Test Preparation is included for students who want to  obtain a GED diploma.  We want to help participants without a high school diploma obtain a GED diploma as quickly as possible.
• Work Ready / Career Ready Work Keys Certification can help adults get better jobs or enter training programs to learn new skills.
• Distance Learning options are available for students who can not regularly attend ABLE classes.
• English for Speakers of Other Languages is available to help  people speak and read English.
• Computer assisted instruction is available. Students can also learn  basic computer skills such as keyboarding and maneuvering through the internet.

New Student Orientation and GED Practice Test
New students should call 894-0301 to obtain information about ABLE orientation.  Orientation is held every Monday at Workforce One for daytime and/or evening classes.  Orientation and diagnostic testing is required for everyone who participates in the ABLE program including distance learning options.

The current Official GED Test is $40 for all five sections of the test.

• Call 894-0301 to schedule a FREE GED Practice Test.
• Call 894-0301 to schedule ABLE orientation.
• Call 894-0301 for more information about ABLE or GED.

The GED Diploma
If you left high school without graduating, the GED Test provides a way for you to earn your GED high school diploma.  The GED Diploma documents that you have high school level skills.  Most employers and colleges accept the GED Diploma as equivalent to traditional high school diploma.

The GED Tests measure important knowledge and skills expected of high school graduates.  The five GED Tests are Language Arts: Reading, Language Arts, Writing, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics.
These tests contain multiple-choice questions that test your ability to use information or ideas.  Reading comprehension skills are very important.     

In addition to the multiple choice questions, the Writing Skills Test includes an essay section.  You are given 45 minutes to write an essay.

Preparing for the GED Test
Most people who have been out of school for some time need to prepare for the GED Tests before taking them.  ABLE can help you improve your skills so that you can succeed on the GED Tests.  After the initial assessment the teachers can help you decide whether you need to study for all the tests, or whether you should spend time brushing up in just a few areas.  The teachers can give you test taking tips.  Everyone benefits by reviewing math problems and by writing a practice essay.  My Skills Tutor and Keytrain are available as distance learning options.  Students may study at home or at a library.  To be successful, students should have good reading skills and be highly motivated.  Interested students must first attend ABLE orientation for information about distance learning.

It is a good idea to take the Official GED Practice Test before taking the actual GED Test.  A passing score on a GED Practice Test indicates that you are ready to take an Official GED Test. 
Preparing for the GED Test saves time in the long run.  Employers and colleges may request a transcript of your GED scores.  The time spent in preparation will pay off in a higher passing score.

Where to Find More Information
ABLE can give you more information about what is on the GED Test.  All ABLE Centers have current information about Official GED Test sites and times. Call 894-0301 in Hamilton for information. Outside of Hamilton, call the Ohio GED Testing Service in Columbus (1-800-334-6679) for information and for test sites.

Visit the Ohio GED website at the Ohio Department of Education at www.ode.state.oh.us to fill out your application on line (preferred method).