If you have a student getting ready to apply to private schools, Varsity Tutors can provide SSAT support with a Houston SSAT prep course. The SSAT is used by private school admissions boards for a range of ages, from 3rd-graders applying as they enter 4th grade all the way to 11th-graders applying to enter private school for their 12th-grade year. This means that the exact structure and content of the test varies depending on the grade level of your student, but there are certain touchstones that remain constant for all ages. No matter the grade level of your student, or where they are in their SSAT prep, Varsity Tutors can provide a course to fit their needs and schedule, with accessible online courses that can accommodate diverse needs.
What sort of content will a Houston SSAT class cover?
The SSAT, or Secondary School Admission Test, is divided into three levels, depending on the age of the student. Students entering the 4th or 5th grades will take the Elementary Level Test, while students entering grades 6 through 8 will take the Middle Level test. For 9th through 12th grade admissions, students will take the Upper Level version of the SSAT. Let's spend some time looking at the details of the test, and what a Houston SSAT course will cover depending on the grade level of your student. As the SSAT changes in duration and structure depending on the level of the test, the test your student takes may differ from the order detailed, but this can serve as a guide to the general nature of the test.
First, the Quantitative section of the test. This section will test students on general mathematics as is appropriate to their grade level. For the Elementary Level test, your student will be asked to demonstrate a basic knowledge of math, using concepts like arithmetic, place value, fractions, and measurement skills. At the Middle Level, questions will cover basic algebra concepts, data analysis skills, and geometric principles like area and perimeters of shapes. The Upper Level is similar, but demands a higher level of knowledge of these concepts. So, for example, while the Middle Level might ask students to show basic algebra using variables, the Upper Level might instead ask for students to understand how these equations can be used to plot lines.
Second is the Reading section. For Elementary Level students, this section will mean reading short passages and answering questions about the general ideas in the passages, as well as being able to understand the difference between literal and figurative language. At the Middle Level, students will be asked to answer questions about what sort of information can be inferred from passages, how context affects words, and what can be determined from the tone of the author's writing. For the Upper Level, students will read more complex passages from literary fiction, as well as nonfiction works in the humanities and sciences, and will have to infer information, understand authorial intent, and evaluate the arguments of a passage.
Third up is the Verbal section. The Elementary Level of this part of the SSAT will ask students to understand synonyms and demonstrate an age-appropriate vocabulary. The Middle Level test will cover synonyms and analogies, and will ask students to understand the roots of words and how words are related to each other. At the Upper Level, students will have to additionally show knowledge of Latin, Greek, and Anglo-Saxon suffixes and prefixes, understand antonyms, and use context to determine the meaning of phrases.
Last is the Writing section. This section is not scored, but your student's work here be submitted to schools as an example of their writing skills. Elementary Level students will be given a picture prompt and be asked to write a simple story with a beginning, middle, and end. Schools will be looking for an understanding of spelling, grammar, and punctuation. For Middle Level students, the Writing section will provide two creative prompts that students can choose between and will base a story upon. Here, students will be expected to be able to structure a written story and will have to show skill in English writing mechanics. For the Upper Level test, students will again be provided with two prompts, but one will be for a creative story, and the other will be for an essay. Students can choose which they'd prefer to write. Admissions boards will be reading for English mechanical skill, but also for the persuasive abilities of your student's writing, and their skill in structuring and supporting their work.
How will a Houston SSAT course help my student prepare?
We know you and your student may have full schedules. That's why a Houston SSAT course is taught in a live virtual classroom led by a knowledgeable instructor. The flexibility of an online course should not be understated; over the internet, commute times can be instantaneous, and there are a range of class times to pick from. Your student will interact with their teacher and classmates just as if they were sitting around a table together, participating in group discussions where they'll be able to see and speak with other students getting ready for the SSAT. Group learning has been proven to increase students' ability to learn and retain new information, and can be a useful tool in getting your student ready for the test.
Of course, there are definite advantages to one-on-one instruction as well, which is why a Houston SSAT course allows students to reserve time with their teacher to go over difficult material privately. These courses have been specially designed so that they can help your student pursue success on the SSAT to the best of their ability. The course will cover content material and can also help your student get familiar with the structure and expectations of this sort of standardized test, and can build up their confidence and test-taking skills.
What can I do to get signed up for a Houston SSAT class?
Although the SSAT can be a challenging obstacle standing between your student and admission to a private school, it can also be an opportunity to develop skills that may continue to improve their academic prospects for years to come. Standardized testing, as well as testing more generally, is an important part of scholastic life. No matter the grade level of your student, strong content area knowledge combined with test-taking skills can be a powerful tool to get a leg up on the competition. Contact Varsity Tutors today and we'll be able to provide you with more information about our course offerings, and can get your student set up with a course that can point them towards success in private school.
Megan: Houston SSAT course instructor
...Baylor University, and minors in biology and biochemistry, I have a passion for all sciences. I spent 3 years as a supplemental instructor for chemistry students, which made me passionate about tutoring and teaching beyond Baylor. I love seeing the "Ah-Ha" moment in students and helping them reach their academic goals. Learning should be exciting and stimulating, and I am here to facilitate that experience. My tutoring interests are mostly focused on Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology,...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- SAT
- SHSAT
- +49 subjects
Alexandra: Houston SSAT course instructor
...to grasp a foreign concept. I am a firm believer in the power of education and I hope to share my love of learning with all of my students. After graduation I plan on returning to Houston to obtain my Master of Arts in Teaching from Rice University. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and writing anything from poetry to screenplays. I have also been involved in competitive dance for most of my adolescence,...
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Florida EOC Assessment
- SAT Subject Tests
- UK A Level
- +308 subjects
Sarah: Houston SSAT course instructor
...in many different subject areas. I love the learning process, and figuring out how to best design a lesson for a specific student so that learning is fun, engaging and meaningful. For me, learning is not about drilling memorization facts. My ultimate goal with students is to make a connection with them and bring alive pre-algebra, phonics, the questioning mechanics of the SAT - whatever the student is learning. When a connection is made, we...
Education & Certification
- Vanderbilt University - Bachelor in Arts, Art History
- American University of Paris - Master of Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- ISEE
- English
- +17 subjects
Malcolm: Houston SSAT course instructor
...am currently a junior at Rice University, majoring in biochemistry and cell biology. I am particularly interested in tutoring math, science, writing, and test preparation. I have a strong background in tutoring over many years, and I am very comfortable working with many different kinds of students. My goal is not only to ensure success in the classroom today but to equip my students with lifelong skills that will help them to be successful in...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISAT
- STAAR
- +42 subjects
Velma: Houston SSAT course instructor
...I am most passionate about English, Reading, Grammar, Phonics, and Writing. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests, we always seem to have the most fun. I want each and every child to gain the knowledge they need in order for them to excel to the next level. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, cooking, exercising, and playing with my dog Sebastian. I am looking forward to meeting you!
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Clear Lake - Bachelor of Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR EOC
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +58 subjects
Leslie: Houston SSAT course instructor
...from Texas A&M University, I fully understand the commitment to and importance of education and closing achievement gaps. During my entire career in education, I was given many opportunities. I served as Mathematics/Science Education instructor on the post secondary level, did consulting specializing in supplemental education solutions for Mathematics, Science, and STEM, taught and tutored within schools, and lead a district charter managing multiple campuses. Although my work experience has been mostly face to face,...
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelors, Math
- The Texas A&M University System Office - PHD, Math Ed
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- ACCUPLACER
- +54 subjects
Windy: Houston SSAT course instructor
Hello, I am looking forward to helping you reach your academic goals in elementary/middle school math/remedial math. My desire is to also help you reach your maximum potential by teaching you skills and strategies that will help you to become a life long learner.
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Lamar University - Masters in Education, Counselor Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- HSPT
- ISEE
- +27 subjects
Mathilde: Houston SSAT course instructor
...help your student realize their strengths. As a Linguistics major, much of my academic career focused on studying and understanding the nuances of English and French in both reading and writing, though I also have a strong foundation in mathematics, ranging from Algebra to AP Calculus AB. Additionally, my ACT score was 33 (99th percentile); I completed ACT tutoring courses as a high school student and am familiar with the strategies used to maximize scores....
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelors, Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- HSPT
- Advanced Placement
- +67 subjects
Phoebe: Houston SSAT course instructor
...towards applying to medical school and a good part of that decision is because I love the STEM field so much. Throughout my education, I've personally always learned best by teaching my friends and classmates. Science and math is tough - but I wouldn't be where I am today without the help of teachers and peers who have patiently helped me understand the material. My goal is not only to help you learn the material,...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
- University of North Texas - Master of Science, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- TACHS
- CogAT
- +49 subjects
Michael: Houston SSAT course instructor
...gain fluency and as a non-native speaker. In the process I have learned a number of language "hacks" to really jumpstart learning. In my spare time I manage a private Investment club, where I educate the members about Financial Literacy and Investing. I also am a creative writer, director, actor and producer of short films. Personal health is also very important to me, I have active lifestyle doing martial arts and other recreational sports like...
Education & Certification
- Gustavus Adolphus College - Bachelors, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- Conversational Spanish
- +49 subjects
Jennifer: Houston SSAT course instructor
I hold a BA in Elementary and Middle School Education, and an MEd in International Education, as well as an Iowa State Teaching License, and a TEFL Certification. I have taught overseas in the international school system for ten years, and would love to share my knowledge and expertise with you.
Education & Certification
- University of Northern Iowa - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- Endicott College - Masters in Education, International and Comparative Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Florida EOC Assessment
- GATE/ TAG
- +68 subjects
Tutor Jess: Houston SSAT course instructor
Education & Certification
- Texas A & M University-College Station - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Purdue University-Main Campus - Master of Science, Applied Behavior Analysis
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ACCUPLACER
- AIMS
- +254 subjects
Connie: Houston SSAT course instructor
...College Psychology and just about any grade or course in Special Education. I use an abundance of techniques from mnemonic strategies to games, tricks, reverse teaching, and so forth until I find what works for the student ! I believe everyone can learn if given a chance. I have had much success not only in teaching my students to pass their courses but in preparing them and helping them pass State and National tests. I...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelors, Psychology
- Sam Houston State University - Masters, Counseling Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ISEE
- TOEFL
- +30 subjects
Lise: Houston SSAT course instructor
...dyslexia students, special education students, ESL students and college students become better readers and writers. I am Texas state certified in English Language Arts, English as a Second Language, and Special Education. I am an adjunct English professor at HCC. I have a bachelor's and master's degree, both in the arts. Since I love learning I have always studied several subjects at the same time. My areas of study have included creative writing, English, the...
Education & Certification
- York University Toronto Canada - Bachelor in Arts, English
- York University Toronto Canada - Master of Arts, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- OLSAT
- +101 subjects
Ivonne: Houston SSAT course instructor
...been teaching Spanish as a foreign language for thirty years. I am a very flexible teacher, ensuring every student's learning style and abilities are addressed. I like teaching conversational Spanish, vocabulary, grammar, and writing at all levels. I enjoy giving classes with daily everyday topics or the basics needed. The best way to learn a foreign language is with a native teacher without an accent and who knows and practices an up-to-date language. What I...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Houston Campus - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Nova Southeastern University - Masters in Education, Spanish Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ASVAB
- CLEP
- +33 subjects
Lindsey: Houston SSAT course instructor
...experience tutoring Mathematics at Sylvan Learning Center and Test Prep as a career coach for a non-profit organization. I am available to tutor a diverse selection of subjects from math, social studies, test prep, and Advanced Placement to students from all age groups. I tend to favor Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, AP Human Geography, U.S. History, and European History. I love helping our youth and I am passionate about learning and the possibilities that it can...
Education & Certification
- Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College - Bachelor in Arts, History
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- HSPT
- SAT
- +38 subjects
Neemisha: Houston SSAT course instructor
...international schools. 3. Helping students with homework and organization skills. 4. Helping students be more confident as learners. 5. Helping students not feel intimidated in the classroom. 6. Helping students be more confident in their math skills. 7. Helping students with general test taking skills. 8. Helping students understand the role of mathematics in their future. 9. Helping students maximize his/her mathematical potential. 10. Helping students with the AMC/Math Counts/Math Team questions. 11. Helping students with...
Education & Certification
- The Evergreen State College - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Political Science and Government
- UMSL - Master of Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- CogAT
- +47 subjects
Cinthia: Houston SSAT course instructor
I am a graduated teacher from FIU.I have worked with students grade k-5th, mainly focused in reading and writing intervention.I love having fun while learning and am excited to teach new students.
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Beginner Spanish for Adults
- +26 subjects
Vincent: Houston SSAT course instructor
...world we live in, today. I firmly believe in cultivating in my students a strong, well-rounded understanding in ALL of the subject areas I tutor. I accomplish this largely by establishing positive and motivational relationships with my students that get them excited to learn! Teaching is my passion and I strive to transfer my enthusiasm for learning to all of my students. Outside of academia, I am a dedicated and loving husband and father who...
Education & Certification
- University of St Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- UK A Level
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- HSPT
- +24 subjects
Angela: Houston SSAT course instructor
...and interesting. I will make sure my students are engaged, have discussions, and do hands on teaching and one on one instruction. When students share in my teaching methods by giving their opinions on how I should teach them, this makes them feel apart of their education process; and they will be more open to learning. Alone with my students, I will evaluate my teaching styles and be open to any changes necessary.
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Downtown - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ISEE-Lower Level Writing
- +7 subjects