Chapter 5
Reading Overview
At 150 minutes, Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) is the longest of the four GED® subject tests, combining 95 minutes of Reading and Language, a 10-minute break, and the 45-minute Extended Response (essay) section. We'll talk about the language questions and Extended Response section in upcoming chapters. For now, let's look at Reading, which will take up most of your time in this section.
You're more likely to encounter informational (nonfiction) texts than literary passages, which is good news if you've ever had to struggle with complex literary language and ideas while the clock ticks. Only 25 percent of the reading passages will be literary; 75 percent will be informational material, which tends to be more straightforward, with concrete language and clearer presentation.
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