For many, studying and preparing for the GACE Test is comprised of reading and familiarizing with material. While everyone has their own method to studying, it is sometimes too easy to read through material without truly retaining and learning the information. For those looking to increase their critical thinking and retain the information studied in the most effective way, consider the SQ3R method. This great little studying method will help you sharpen your study skills and get the most out of your study time.

SQ3R stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. At the beginning of the study session be sure to write this little slogan down.

The first part, Survey, is done before anything is actually studied. Much like any other situation dealing with the unfamiliar, surveying the GACE test study content identifies what exactly is being looked at, what needs to be done, and how to achieve it. Consider it to be like a road map before a trip, in which you can familiarize yourself with the various routes and landscape. This sets the mental framework for successful studying and learning.

Question occurs as you read or study. While actively looking through and reading materials, ask basic questions (such as the who, what, when, where, why, and how) and whatever else that relates to the material. This directs you to understanding what the most important parts of the material are, and eliminates unimportant and irrelevant information. The Question portion also challenges you to think critically and truly understand the material. It is recommended to keep track of the important questions and answers by writing them down.

The next part, Read, seems self explanatory. It involves reading your study materials and guides. However, keep in mind that you should not skim the material, but instead read actively. Focus on the main points of the text and the main questions that should be answered after reading it. Bold and italicized words are important to be recognized, as well as tables and charts. By reading with purposed you will be on the lookout for the most relevant and important information on the subject.

The Recite part occurs as you are reading. From time to time, stop and evaluate what you have learned. What were the main points that were shown? Can you sum up the important content of a section or a chapter in a more concise way? These parts of recitation make the best notes, as they are highly relevant. Be sure to be able to describe what you have learned in your own words. Although challenging, expressing content your own way shows a true grasp of the material and makes it more personalized and memorable.

Review involves analyzing everything you have done during your time studying. Review your notes, flashcards, highlighted text, etc. to reinforce what you have spent your time learning. This often involves looking at what was done by taking a step back. Look at the big picture: what major elements of areas of a subject did you cover? Reviewing should be done shortly after the studying process and done frequently. This keeps the material fresh in your mind so you are simply reviewing closer to the exam date, not cramming!

Although this method seems a bit tedious, it is a very effective method in truly learning, understanding, and retaining GACE material. Adopting the SQ3R method into your studying habits will result in success, so keep at it!

With the pressures of schoolwork, exams, jobs, and visions of futures, obtaining a teacher certificate seems far from reach. However, this does not have to be the case! For those planning the take the GACE exam, success is more than possible with the right amount of studying and knowledge.

In the big scheme of your teaching career, passing the GACE is critical for obtaining your license. For now, however, let’s start with the basics- the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How.

Who?

The GACE is administered by the National Evaluation Systems along with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. It is issued to those interested in teaching in Georgia’s public school systems in order to assess knowledge and qualification

What?

More than just simply an exam covering a few subject areas, the GACE encompasses the following testing areas:

• • basic skills involving reading, writing, and mathematics
  • professional pedagogy as it relates to student development and professional responsibilities
  • content of a specific subject (ex: French or 8th grade)
  • educational leadership pertaining to Georgia public schools
  • paraprofessional involving instructional ability in reading, writing, and mathematics
  • computer skills competency demonstrating knowledge in the usage of various computer programs and skills

The exam involves selected-response questions and constructed-response. The lowest passing score is a 220 on a range of 100 to 300.

When?

Registration times and testing dates can be found at this website: http://www.gace.nesinc.com/GA4_testdates.asp

Where?

Various test locations as indicated on your admission ticket

How?

Registration for the test can be done in many forms: internet, telephone (in emergency situations), or mail. Payment is also completed at the time of registration. Once given a test admission ticket, make sure to show up to show up to the location on time! (Or run the risk of being locked out of the exam)

Remember, if you do not pass the GACE the first, you can restest as many times as you choose!

and most important question...

Why?

In order to receive your teaching license, you must past the GACE for teaching in public schools in the state of Georgia.

The GACE is the first step to developing your teaching career, so how do you prepare?

A good GACE study guide can help adequately prepare you for what will be expected on the test. Study guides, practice tests, and other materials can help you feel confident and ready to get a passing score!

Here are a few links that are worth checking out:

GACE

GACE Exam Practice Tests

TeachRite GACE Study Guide

Check back soon for frequent updates and important GACE study tips!