If you are considering enrolling your student in a STAAR prep course, Varsity Tutors offers private STAAR classes that may help them improve their study skills. The STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) exams are taken by all students grades 3-12 to determine what they are learning and whether they are ready for the academic rigors of the next grade level. Standardized tests can feel daunting, so a STAAR class can help build your student's confidence as exam day approaches!
One of the first things discussed in a typical STAAR course is the structure and content of the exams your student is preparing for. If you aren't sure what they should go over during STAAR prep class sessions, the chart below provides a breakdown of the STAAR schedule by grade level:
| STAAR Test | Grade Level or Course |
| Reading | Grades 3-8 |
| Math | Grades 3-8 |
| Writing | Grades 4 and 7 |
| Science | Grades 5 and 8 |
| Social Studies | Grade 8 |
| EOC (end of course) | Algebra I, US History, Biology, English I, English II |
The beauty of private STAAR prep classes is that they are flexible enough to adapt to any student's needs. For instance, let's say that your student is in Grade 8. They have four STAAR tests on their plate this year: Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. A typical STAAR course might spend equal time on all four subjects, but most students are stronger in one or more than the others. Spending an equal amount of time on everything isn't the optimal solution in most cases.
Let's add that your student excels in reading comprehension, so you're not really worried about the Reading STAAR. Strong reading comprehension skills also make Social Studies easier, so that one is probably fine too. It looks like this hypothetical student might be best served by concentrating on the Math and Science STAAR exams, with maybe a little bit of review for the other two, during their STAAR courses. Of course, sessions could also focus on Reading and Social Studies in the opposite scenario.
Once you know which exams your student should concentrate on, STAAR prep courses might go over the specific contents of those tests. Returning to the example above, the following graphic breaks down the concepts on the Grade 8 Math STAAR exam:
STAAR Grade 8 Math Topics
- Numerical Representations and Relationships
- Computations and Algebraic Relationships
- Geometry and Measurement
- Data Analysis and Personal Financial Literacy
Again, working with a private instructor allows students to concentrate on any subject. If your student has strong algebraic skills but has a harder time with geometry, their instructor might provide extra geometry practice problems for more experience. A private instructor may also be able to incorporate your student's interests to make studying more engaging. For example, financial literacy can seem dry as a standalone topic, but framing it as saving for a video game may make it more interesting.
We also try to make STAAR test prep as convenient as possible. Our Live Learning Platform allows your student to meet with their instructor online, taking the hassle out of private STAAR prep courses. We also do our best to match every student with an instructor who meets your scheduling needs. After all, no kid should have to compromise sports, hobbies, or even relaxation time just to study for a test.
If you're ready to learn more about our STAAR classes, contact Varsity Tutors today for more information. Educational Directors are currently standing by to address any questions you have!
John: STAAR course instructor
I graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC in 2008, the oldest English speaking acting conservatory in the world. I graduated Summa from University of St Thomas with a BA in English, and just wrapped up a MS in Data Science from Northwestern. I'm a huge Red Sox fan and love watching detective shows when I have free time.... Positivity. Always. I believe that if a student is given positive tools and is allowed to understand the material rather than be lectured at, they're more likely to do well in the future.
Education & Certification
- American Academy of Dramatic Arts - Associates, Acting
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor of Fine Arts, English/Drama
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- ISEE
- +110 subjects
Oly: STAAR course instructor
...before moving to Texas to be closer to my parents. I did my alternative certification program through Texas Teachers and am highly qualified to teach Science for grades 7-12. I have been a teacher in public and charter schools for the last four years, and have tutoring experience extending over ten years behind me as well. I am most passionate about teaching because I love seeing people learn, grow, and become problem solvers and leaders...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
- Michigan Technological University - non degree, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +138 subjects
Nolan: STAAR course instructor
...Spanish, and Neuroscience. I have spent my time since college mentoring, tutoring, and promoting healthy lifestyles for high school students. I have enjoyed helping all age groups learn - from kids, to college students, to adults. I tutor a wide variety of subjects including math, Spanish, ESL, and test prep. I really enjoy tutoring geometry and algebra or SAT prep. My tutoring strengths include finding multiple ways to explain things for my students and giving...
Education & Certification
- Ursinus College - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT Subject Tests
- +40 subjects
Koga: STAAR course instructor
...their lives as immigrants to this country through education. I fully recognize the importance of learning. For the past two years I taught mathematics at the middle and high school level as a Teach For America corp member in the Dallas Independent School District. I know that the confidence that a student receives when they finally understand a concept that has alluded them is powerful enough to positively impact them in all arenas of their...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- College English
- English
- Elementary Math
- +17 subjects
Madeline: STAAR course instructor
...University getting my masters in chemical and biomolecular engineering. I have spent a lot of time around children and I have spent a good amount of time teaching as well. I want all students that I tutor to feel comfortable when I am tutoring them and I believe all students have the ability to improve. I am very comfortable teaching all subjects for grades up to 9th grade and, when dealing with high school courses,...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- CLEP
- STAAR EOC
- +117 subjects
Jennifer: STAAR course instructor
...helped me realize that I am capable of overcoming difficulties through perseverance, and that's a skill that I want to pass on to the students I tutor. Everyone makes mistakes and has struggles, but the important thing is that you can move past those roadblocks. As a tutor, I try really hard to help students connect the material they are studying inside the classroom to their passions outside the classroom. Sometimes all that's needed to...
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Current Undergrad, Education and Child Studies and Theatre
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- SAT
- +96 subjects
Kristie: STAAR course instructor
...open curriculum of "La Clase Magica". I have also tutored elementary-aged children through the YMCA Mentorship program focusing on daily homework tasks and study skills. Since graduation, I have spent the last year living and working in Washington, DC in the nonprofit sector. I thoroughly enjoyed my work but realized I needed to return to my roots in education. I really enjoy time spent tutoring and I love to make the tutoring process fun through...
Education & Certification
- UC- San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +28 subjects
Amanda: STAAR course instructor
...Francisco, CA. I received my BFA in Dance (emphasis in Modern Contemporary Dance) from San Jose State University, and have been dancing professionally for the past 3 years since I graduated in 2012. Working with youth and helping students discover their true potential for success, regardless of background or barriers, has always been a deep-seated passion of mine. I, myself, a first generation college student hailing from a low income family, want to emphasize how...
Education & Certification
- San Jose State University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- CAHSEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Elementary Math
- +25 subjects
Andy: STAAR course instructor
...be a role model for students. As my resume demonstrates, I am a Texas certified Social Studies Composite 4-12 and Math 4-8 teacher with Master degree in History and five years of teaching experience in various social studies subjects and math. I started my teaching career as a U.S history and AP Human Geography teacher at Harmony School of Science at Houston, Texas, and at Harmony Science Academy at Houston. I accumulated the rest of...
Education & Certification
- Unversity of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, History
- Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Masters, History
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- ACT
- TOEFL
- +45 subjects
Adriana: STAAR course instructor
...library. A large part of my classroom instruction involved tutoring in all core subject areas in grades K-5. As a librarian, I had the pleasure of working with middle school teens as a resource and mentor in academic competitions and other activities. My teaching philosophy involves listening to the student and assessing weaknesses and strengths. I use scaffolding to build upon small successes until the student has mastered skills and achieved his/her goals.... I believe in working with students, developing their strengths and improving their weaknesses. Everyone can learn, but not in the same way and pace.
Education & Certification
- Southern Methodist University - Bachelors, Broadcast Film
- Southern Methodist University - Masters, Bilingual Education
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- TACHS
- HSPT
- +65 subjects
Sharon: STAAR course instructor
My name is Sharon, and I have been an educator for over fifteen years. I am passionate about education. I enjoy using innovative techniques to incorporate skills that will be useful to my students. My goal is to enhance each student's learning and help them rise to a higher level. Some of my hobbies are cooking (I'm a foodie), reading, and going on nice walks or scenic drives.... My teaching philosophy is that every student should have the right to learn and get a quality education. The instruction should be differentiated to aid with different learning preferences and styles.
Education & Certification
- Texas Southern University - Bachelors, Public Affairs
- University of Phoenix - Masters, Management
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ISEE
- ACT
- +35 subjects
Michelle: STAAR course instructor
...my students, whether it's kinesthetic (hands-on) or non-linguistic representations (visual icons or analogies). I find that sometimes the wall that keeps someone from understanding can easily be overcome by changing the perspective. I am a Houston native certified to teach general elementary and secondary history. I taught TAKS prep and second grade in Cy-Fair ISD and currently work as a substitute in Klein. I earned a BA in the Humanities from Brigham Young University in...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University - Bachelor in Arts, Humanities
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- High School World History
- Reading
- ESL/ELL
- +24 subjects
Melissa: STAAR course instructor
...to make my lessons fun and engaging, but also be excited about the lesson so that students can also be excited about the subject. I want my students to do the thinking, instead of telling them what they should know. Objectives are stickier stickier when the lesson is something that the student can relate to. I am no-nonsense, but I also want to make sure that my studI meet the needs of my students and...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- GED
- UK A Level
- +84 subjects
Iselee: STAAR course instructor
...undergraduate degree in Spanish, and I am currently a visual artist pursuing further studies in digital and web design. I formerly taught bilingual math and science, and I am a certified bilingual education teacher in the state of Texas. I love learning, imparting knowledge, and bilingualism, and I am eager to assist students with academic goals. Previously, I've taught 3rd grade bilingual courses including English and Spanish literacy and grammar as well as math, science,...
Education & Certification
- Loyola Marymount University - Bachelors, Spanish
- Johns Hopkins University - Current Grad Student, Digital Communication
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- +72 subjects
Tom: STAAR course instructor
...but just ned a little guidance, confidence, or an understanding at how to look at a problem a little differently. My main subject areas have been English, Writing, Public Speaking, Math, Science, United States History and Geometry. I also tutor standardized test taking. One of my strengths as a tutor is to take difficult subjects or concepts and make them easier to understand. I am completely dedicated to helping students get better. I like for...
Education & Certification
- Ohio University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Interpersonal Commmunication/Business
- University of Phoenix-Dallas Campus - Master of Science, Business Administration/Marketing
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- GED
- College Essays
- +30 subjects
Jeremy: STAAR course instructor
...I also assisted in various medical procedures. I volunteered at Hillcrest Cancer Center. There, I got to know the cancer patients on a personal level and found out what kind of hardships they were going through. I regularly volunteer at the Waco Family Abuse Center. Working in medicine, I will master the skills of diagnosis, work continually to improve my quality of understanding of medicine, and educate my future patients so they can make choices...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Biology minor Prehealth
- University of North Texas Health Science Center - Master of Science, Health Management and Policy
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- ACT
- +50 subjects
Matthew: STAAR course instructor
...loved puzzles and problem solving, so naturally math and science have always been my strong suits. As a matter of fact, Calculus was, and still is, my favorite subject. As an Engineer I am also well grounded in Physics and Chemistry. I've always been a good test-taker and I know what it takes to get the grades. I know that it can make a huge difference to have some one-on-one help. I like to have...
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- College Level American History
- +46 subjects
Kewanta: STAAR course instructor
...learning and has a propensity to certain multiple intelligences. It is the responsibility of the educator to expose the learner to as many modes and MIs as possible to guide the student towards mastery of content. My students enjoyed a variety of activities and were not subjected to boring lectures. Apart from being a highly effective educator, I also enjoy a plethora of interests and hobbies. I enjoy getting lost in a good book. Once...
Education & Certification
- Sarah Lawrence College - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Elementary School Reading
- Literature
- +27 subjects
Shelia: STAAR course instructor
I have been in the education field for over 15 years. I love assisting others of all ages in exploring and expanding their learning capacity, which in turn, enriches the quality of their lives. My biggest joy as a teacher is seeing someone come to a full understanding of a concept they could not grasp before. Helping the learner reach those "a-ha" moments is what a teacher does!
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelor of Science, Finance
- Oral Roberts University - Master of Arts, Theology
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- HSPT
- SSAT
- ISEE
- +50 subjects
Stacie: STAAR course instructor
...to teaching and training. I firmly believe that if you have a strong foundation in teaching philosophies and principles and the willingness to pursue professional development opportunities, you can achieve the most awesome teacher title. I have two basic ideals I like to follow: 1. Stimulate as many senses as possible when teaching to get the message home and 2. Use a higher order of questioning, such as Bloom's Taxonomy (especially analysis, synthesis and evaluation).
Education & Certification
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, Education, English
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Writing
- English Grammar and Syntax
- English
- +9 subjects