The most important thing to know about the TABE is that you cannot fail it. Its purpose is to determine your academic strengths and identify areas in which you need more work. The purpose of preparing for this test is to make sure you remember all you know and give an accurate representation of your abilities when you take the test. This is especially important if you have been away from the school environment for a while.
The TABE is a widely used test for adult learners that has several purposes. Scores from the TABE are often used to determine placement level in adult education programs, such as classes to prepare for GED testing. Many adult education instructors use the TABE results to inform instruction, pinpoint areas where adult learners need additional practice, and monitor the progress of their students. There are also some career training facilities that use the TABE to determine the most appropriate path of training. The basic test assesses skills in reading, language, and mathematics.
You may hear this test referred to as the “TABE 9 & 10.” The numerals 9 and 10 are simply designations for the two different versions of the same test, with the same level of questions. This feature is utilized when a person retakes the same level of the test to determine progress since the last TABE administration.
The TABE test has five levels: Literacy, Easy, Medium, Difficult, and Advanced. These levels are designated on the test by L, E, M, D, and A. A short “Locator” test is administered prior to the actual TABE testing session to determine which level you should take. When you retest on the TABE, you may be tested at the same level, or the test administrator may give you the next higher level to better assess your growth and plan for future studies or training.
As a result of the Locator, or your previous TABE scores, you may be assigned to take different levels of the TABE in each of the three subject tests: Reading, Language, and Math.
Union Test Prep TABE study materials contain various levels of TABE practice, from levels E through A. If you have difficulty with particular skills, contact your adult education personnel for further practice materials.