They all have different reasons for not finishing High School yet all have one thing in common: motivation to pass the GED test. Many struggle with Math. I have found the students learning styles to be different. Teaming with the GED prep instructor, we work to offer alternative paths to problem solving. Most challenging are word problems. For example, students feel like they are getting the following problem to solve: A taxi departs heading due south for 6 miles, the moon is full therefore how old is Susan? J Joking aside, in reality, students are provided with enough information to obtain a solution but often find themselves intimidated. Breaking the problems down into smaller parts normally allows them to calculate to the correct answer.
Back to motivation. I find the student’s motivation inspiring. The support they receive from their friends & family are off the chart. And you should see the beaming smiles on their faces when, after passing the GED, finally graduating! Accomplishment if not closure regarding an outstanding part of their lives.
Gary Sommers
