Learning pentatonic scales

[bassinplace]

I'm currently doing some exercises to teach myself the minor pentatonic scales. Right off the bat I have some confusion. The key signatures don't seem to match the scales. For example the E minor pentatonic scale has a G major key signature written on it. The first exercise states it is in C and G but the key signature is written as F. What gives? I'm confused. A little help? Thanks!

[Asher S]

I believe you're experiencing what's known as the "relative minor", i.e. take G major, and the relative minor (down a minor third from G) is E. The 2 scales are "diatonic": they share the same notes. The same is true for C major and A minor, F major and D minor etc etc.

I'm not sure what the "C & G" with F key signature refer to, but the minor pentatonic can be overlayed several different key signatures effectively. That's one reason why it's so popular. Actually, C & G are V and ii (major V and minor ii modes) of F major, so perhaps your source is referring to the popular ii V I progression in which the minor pentatonic (or alternatively the Dorian) may be tapped for the ii mode (G minor in this case).

[jrklmx(Andrew)]

Every Major key has a relative minor key. Take your root note G, go to the 6th degree of the scale. g a b c d E f
G major= Em
E F# G A B C D. It's G major starting on E.

Pentatonic scales are just 1, b3, 4 5 and b7 + octave. Its just a five note scale that sounds good because of the b3 and 7. Pick a note and apply that "formula". Hope this helps.
I dont understand the second part of your question. Sorry, I'd have to see the music your playing.