If you need help studying for the GACE English test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place!
Click below to take a free GACE English practice test!
What’s on the Test?
First, let’s talk about the questions on the GACE English test. There are 134 questions in total, some being selected-response and others being constructed-response.
130 questions
Selected-response questions require you to select the correct answer from a list of options. Multiple-choice questions are the most common example, but you may also see true-or-false questions and “matching” questions, which ask you to match terms or concepts with their definitions.
Constructed-Response (CR)
4 questions
The constructed-response questions require you to write your answer instead of selecting from a list of choices. Your response to these questions is generally expected to be at least a few sentences, but you’ll be given specific details and instructions before you take the test.
The exam is split into two subtests, which are taken in separate testing sessions (but can be taken on the same day if you’d like).
SUBTEST I (020)
67 questions | 2 hours
Reading for Literature (37.5%)
- Major works, authors, and context of US, British, world, and young adult literature
- Defining characteristics of primary literary genres
- Interpreting and analyzing literary text
- Literary elements and figurative language
- Commonly used reading strategies and literary theories
Writing (37.5%)
- Various modes of writing
- The importance of audience and purpose
- Characteristics of clear and coherent writing
- Effective and ethical research practices in writing
- Commonly used approaches to teaching writing
Analysis (25%)
- Analyzing central ideas and key literary elements within a piece of literature
- Analyzing student work to identify appropriate instructional activities
SUBTEST II (021)
67 questions | 2 hours
Reading for Information (37.5%)
- Comprehending and analyzing informational text
- Rhetorical strategies used by authors in informational text
- Evaluating arguments in informational text
- Interpreting media and non-print text
Speaking and Listening (15%)
- Components of delivering effective speeches/presentations
- Effective oral communication in various settings
Language (22.5%)
- The conventions of standard English grammar and language use
- Referencing materials
- Supporting and enhancing language development
Analysis (25%)
- Analyzing central ideas and important rhetorical features from informational texts
- Analyzing student work to identify appropriate instructional activities
How to Register
To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to create a MyPSC account on the GaPSC website. You should receive a Georgia Certification ID (GA CERT ID) during this process, which you’ll use for identification throughout the registration and testing process.
The next step is to create an ETS GACE testing account on the ETS website. This account will allow you to register for the exam and pay the testing fee(s). If you take each subtest separately, the fee is $123 for each subtest. If you take both subtests together, the fee is $193.
GACE English Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
How the Exam is Scored
The GACE English test is scored using a scaled scoring method. Here’s how it works:
For every question you answer correctly, you get one point added to your raw score. At the end of the test, your final raw score will be converted to a scaled score. You’ll need a scaled score of at least 220 to pass the exam.
The reason your raw score is converted to a scaled score is because everyone that takes the test is given a slightly different set of questions. Since everyone has a different arrangement of questions, and because some questions are harder than others, converting your raw score to a scaled score ensures a more even playing field.
Passing Scores
There are two passing levels for this exam: induction and professional. Each level has its own minimum passing score requirements:
- Induction Level: 220-249
- Professional Level: 250
Here’s something to keep in mind: You have to pass at the professional level on BOTH subtests in order for your final exam scores to count at the professional level. If you only pass at the induction level on one of the subtests, your final exam score will only count at the induction level.
Retaking the Exam
If you don’t get the score you want on your first try, that’s okay! You can take the exam again after a mandatory 30-day waiting period.
FAQs
How many questions are on the GACE English test?
The test contains 134 questions.
What is the time limit for the GACE English test?
The test is timed at 4 hours.
What is the passing score for the GACE English test?
You’ll need to get a score of at least 220 to pass the test.
How much does the GACE English test cost?
The testing fee for the full test is $193.