Making Sense of theTASC - Chapter 1 - Understanding Common Core

Sep 14, 2026

Uploaded by Jiven

Chapter content explains how the TASC differs from the GED and why many states use the TASC for high-school equivalency. It connects the exam to the Common Core State Standards, outlines what each subject area covers, and clarifies scoring types such as College and Career Readiness (CCR) and passing scores. The chapter also describes test accessibility options, including paper-and-pencil, online, and accommodations, and provides practical context for registering and preparing.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages6

Reading Time15 min

AccessFree to download

Making Sense of theTASC

Why theTASC and Not the GED?

Getting Up to Speed with Common Core

Exploring the New TASC Exam

Subject Sections

IN THIS CHAPTER Comparing theTASC and the GED | Understanding Common Core | | --- | | Checking out the different sections and question formats of theTASC | Calculating your TASC score Chapter 1 Making Sense of theTASC I n this chapter, we explore the differences between the TASC test and the GED and why many states have chosen the TASC as their high-school equivalency exam. Because the TASC is aligned to the Common Core State Standards, it’s important for you to know what those are. Next, we discuss the topics and format of each of the subject areas covered on the TASC. Lastly, we explore how you’ll be scored in each of the different areas and what scores you need to get your TASC diploma. Why theTASC and Not the GED? In many states, such as New York, West Virginia, and Indiana, the TASC has replaced the GED completely. Students living in those states who are pursuing their high-school equivalency can no longer take the GED exam — they must take the TASC instead. It’s worth double-checking which high-school equivalency options your state permits. Some states only offer the GED, others only offer the TASC, and others give students a choice between the GED and the TASC. Either way, it’s good to keep in mind that not all high-school equivalency exams are created equal. Two of the most noticeable differences between the TASC and GED tests are the cost and the for- mat flexibility. The price of the TASC is more reasonable and affordable than that of the GED, and the exam is also available as a paper-and-pencil test as well as online. If English isn’t your native language, you also have the option of taking the Spanish version of the TASC. There are also large-print, Braille, and audio versions of the TASC available for those students with special needs. CHAPTER 1 Making Sense of theTASC 7 Another advantage that the TASC has over the GED exam is that the TASC is gradually being aligned to the Common Core State Standards. This will help you stay competitive for both career and college opportunities by showing that your abilities and knowledge in each subject are of the right standard to help you succeed. Lastly, the types of scores you receive from taking the TASC are both College and Career Readiness (CCR) scores and passing scores. Earning a satisfactory CCR score shows how well-prepared you are and that you can compete with any American high school graduate! Getting Up to Speed with Common Core The Common Core State Standards provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn so teachers and parents know what they need to do to help them. The Standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers. With American students fully prepared for the future, our communities will be best positioned to compete successfully in the global economy. —Common Core State Standards Initiative Today’s students need to be better prepared than ever to handle the increasing demands of colleges and industry. Previously, each state in America used to have its own academic curriculum. This meant that it was virtually impossible to compare students from different states because the curriculum and standards for graduating high school varied greatly from state to state. But all that changed recently with the release of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), which establish clear, consistent guidelines for what every student needs to know in math and English language arts (ELA) from kindergarten through 12th grade. The Common Core State Standards were drafted by leading experts and teachers throughout the country and are designed to ensure that all students will be ready for success after high school. By focusing on developing critical-thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, the Common Core helps prepare students for today’s freshman-level college courses, workforce tr

FAQs

Why do many states choose the TASC instead of the GED?

Many states have replaced the GED with the TASC. Students in those states must take the TASC to pursue high-school equivalency.

How is the TASC connected to the Common Core State Standards?

The TASC is aligned to the Common Core State Standards, and the chapter explains that this alignment helps demonstrate readiness for college and career expectations.

How is the TASC scored and what scores do you need?

The chapter describes receiving College and Career Readiness (CCR) scores and passing scores. A satisfactory CCR score indicates preparedness and competitiveness after high school.

Sep 14, 2026

Uploaded by Jiven