GACE Exams
In order to assess the skills and knowledge of prospective public school educators in Georgia, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) has developed a series of tests known as the GACE (Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators). State and national standards for the preparation of educators, along with state standards for the P-12 student curriculum (Georgia Performance Standards), form the basis of these tests.
Computer Skill Competency Assessment: This GACE test is an Internet-based test (IBT), designed to assess the candidate's computer competency, a legislated requirement for educators. A single test, it consists of selected-response questions.
While some people may be able to take the GACE test and succeed with minimal preparation, most test takers will benefit from allocating time to study beforehand and reading through a GACE Test Study Guide or practicing with a set of GACE Exam Flashcards. Regardless of your studying techniques, be sure that you plan ahead and leave yourself enough time in advance of the test day to become adequately prepared. Last minute studying is likely to be rushed and does not maximize your chances of being successful.
The objective of the GACE is to measure a candidate's skills and knowledge against an established standard rather than in comparison to how other candidates perform. The GaPSC established the passing scores for each test, based on the professional recommendations and judgments of Georgia educators.
GACE Exam Study Guide | GACE Test Flashcards
The assessments offered by the GACE program include the following:
Basic Skills Assessment: The purpose of this assessment is to test knowledge and skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. It is made up of three tests, all of which have selected-response questions, with an additional constructed-response assignment in the writing test.
Content Assessments: These GACE tests assess knowledge in various content areas. All but three of these assessments are made up of two tests, each of which has selected-response questions and one or more constructed-response assignments. Each of the other three tests-middle grades, Latin, and American Sign Language-consists of a single test with selected-response questions and constructed-response assignments.
Professional Pedagogy Assessment: This GACE test assesses skills and knowledge about student learning and development, instruction and assessment, and the roles and responsibilities of professional educators. It consists of two tests, each one having selected-response questions and constructed-response assignments. Those who have completed a state-approved educator preparation program do not have to take this test.
Educational Leadership Assessment: This GACE test assesses skills and knowledge that educational leaders need. It is made up of two tests, each one having both selected-response questions and constructed-response assignments.
Paraprofessional Assessment: This GACE test satisfies state and federal No Child Left Behind requirements that call for "highly qualified paraprofessionals" in Title I schools or paid with Title I funds. It consists of a single test with selected-response questions that assess the candidate's knowledge of and ability to assist in teaching reading or reading readiness, writing or writing readiness, and mathematics or mathematics readiness.
