If you want the best possible STAAR test prep to help your student pursue their educational goals, Varsity Tutors offers private STAAR classes you may wish to look into. The STAAR (or State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) exams are used by the Texas Board of Education to determine whether a student has progressed enough academically to advance to the next grade level. If you feel that your student could benefit from formal STAAR preparation, we can connect you with one-on-one STAAR tutoring services today!
One of the most important components of STAAR prep is identifying the format of all of the exams your student is studying for. Consider the STAAR Grade 5 Science Exam in the table below:
STAAR Grade 5 Science Section | # Questions |
Matter and Energy | 6 |
Force, Motion, and Energy | 8 |
Earth and Space | 10 |
Organisms and Environments | 12 |
As you can see, Organisms and Environments constitute the plurality of questions on the exam, so traditional STAAR prep solutions emphasize it. However, your student might be comfortable with that topic and benefit more from reviewing Matter and Energy. A private STAAR course can concentrate on your student's unique areas of opportunity to improve study efficiency.
Since students in Grades 3-12 take some kind of STAAR at the end of the year, the benefits of private STAAR test preparation last for the duration of a student's educational career. Here are the topics on the Grade 8 Social Studies Exam:
STAAR Grade 8 Social Studies Section | # Questions |
History | 17 |
Geography and Culture | 10 |
Government and Citizenship | 10 |
Economics, Science, Technology, and Society | 7 |
History constitutes the plurality of the questions here, but it's also the primary emphasis of most social studies classes. Your student may get more out of reviewing geography, government, and economics during their STAAR test prep to better supplement their classroom instruction.
Private STAAR tutors may also be able to build STAAR classes around your student's individual learning style. For instance, a visual learner might benefit from using flashcards to study the significance of proper nouns for a History STAAR, while a hands-on learner might perform an experiment with their instructor to illustrate the concepts on a Science test. Private instruction also virtually ensures that your student's work receives immediate feedback, allowing any mistakes to be corrected in a timely fashion.
If your students sometimes feels apprehensive about standardized exams, they may be able to take practice tests as part of their STAAR prep and calm their nerves. Taking practice exams can help a student identify their academic strengths and any areas of opportunity that could use further work. Likewise, students can develop a familiarity with the time available to them on test day. Most importantly, taking practice exams during a STAAR class can help a student understand exactly what's expected of them, taking the unknown out of STAAR test prep.
Varsity Tutors also tries to make STAAR test prep as convenient as possible. Our exclusive Live Learning Platform facilitates digital study sessions, providing all of the benefits of face-to-face tutoring without the associated hassle. Similarly, we try to refer every student to an instructor who meets their scheduling needs to mitigate any potential scheduling conflicts.
If you would like to learn more about the STAAR prep options Varsity Tutors can provide, contact us today for more information! We look forward to helping you pursue your educational goals through comprehensive STAAR courses!

John: STAAR test prep 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
- PSAT
- CLEP
- ISEE
- +110 subjects

Kay: STAAR test prep instructor
...Edwardsville and Webster University. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Special Education minor as well as a Master of Arts in Counseling and an MBA. I have over 20 professional years advocating and giving a voice to the issues plaguing communities, 10 years in the classroom as a Substitute Teacher and countless years as a tutor. I have extensive experience with learners who have other contributing factors which hinder them academically....
Education & Certification
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville - Bachelors, Psychology
- Webster University - Master of Arts, Counseling Psychology
- Webster University - Masters, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- ASVAB
- SAT
- +75 subjects

Koga: STAAR test prep instructor
...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 life, not just in school. Confidence in your own ability is a powerful thing! I am excited to be part of the Varsity Tutors program and to continue teaching...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Essay Editing
- Writing
- Comparative Literature
- +17 subjects

Kristie: STAAR test prep instructor
...and study skills, while pertaining to the 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...
Education & Certification
- UC- San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ISEE
- +28 subjects

Jane (Elizabeth): STAAR test prep instructor
...experience of seeing a student overcome obstacles to succeed. Whether it’s helping an autistic seven-year-old learn to play with other children or helping a high school freshman learn to make a solid argument, I value the impact I make on others through teaching. I began my professional life as a tutor six years ago, and have taught a variety of subjects, including time management, reading, writing, history and SAT and AP preparation. In lessons, I...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SAT
- Reading
- +26 subjects

Adriana: STAAR test prep instructor
...the classroom and 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...
Education & Certification
- Southern Methodist University - Bachelors, Broadcast Film
- Southern Methodist University - Masters, Bilingual Education
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- HSPT
- SHSAT
- +65 subjects

Kimika: STAAR test prep instructor
...Amherst College in Amherst, Massachusetts. Although I have a degree in science, my first love is math. I have tutored various math subjects from basic math to college trigonometry for friends, family, coworkers and their children, and struggling students. I believe that tutoring is a two-way street. I like to explain the problem and have the student teach it to me to make sure everything is understood. I also love giving helpful hints and shortcuts on...
Education & Certification
- Amherst College - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Geometry
- Trigonometry
- Elementary Math
- +8 subjects

Janet: STAAR test prep instructor
As an educator for 20 years in both the US and Canada, I enjoying working with students of all ages. With a background in Special Education and tutoring for test prep (GED, ACT, SAT), I have a heart for those who find it difficult to succeed in the classroom. It is my passion to encourage students and help them learn strategies to succeed in their education and in life. ... All students have the ability to learn, so the challenge, as a teacher or tutor, is to understand how the student learns best. Utilizing that learning style, I desire to encourage the student and provide opportunities for the student to succeed. Beyond the current learning style, I believe it is important to equip the student with skills to learn in any classroom environment which they may encounter. Critical thinking skills are equally important to prepare the student for both classroom success and life.
Education & Certification
- Moody Bible Institue - Bachelors, International Mnistries
- Lamar University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR EOC
- GED
- PSAT
- +64 subjects

Andy: STAAR test prep instructor
...teaching experience, equipped with teaching strategies and 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...
Education & Certification
- Unversity of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, History
- Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Masters, History
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT
- ACT
- +45 subjects

Amanda: STAAR test prep instructor
...at John Muir Charter School in San 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...
Education & Certification
- San Jose State University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- CAHSEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Art
- +25 subjects

Iselee: STAAR test prep instructor
...graduate of Loyola Marymount University with an 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...
Education & Certification
- Loyola Marymount University - Bachelors, Spanish
- Johns Hopkins University - Current Grad Student, Digital Communication
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- SSAT
- PSAT
- +72 subjects

Connor: STAAR test prep instructor
...MCAT exam. I excelled in undergraduate coursework pertaining to these subjects and have prior experience in assisting pre-professional (pre-medical and pre-nursing) students looking to succeed in their required general science classes. My tutoring methodology is dependent on the establishment of a strong conceptual framework, and subsequent application of theory through practice problems (the best way to master any pure science). I frequently employ the use of problem sets and practice tests to monitor my students'...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- HSPT
- SSAT
- ISEE
- +43 subjects

Christopher: STAAR test prep instructor
...learn the information without being overwhelmed. I can break down complex concepts so that they can be pieced together and understood, not just memorized. I also did work with my fellow undergraduate peers at the time. I look forward to sharing techniques, methods, and strategies to provide to tools necessary to succeed academically. I am often considered a 'fun' tutor by the students and a 'results' tutor by their parents. In my free time, I...
Education & Certification
- The Johns Hopkins University - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Chemistry
- High School English
- College Biology
- +26 subjects

Madeline: STAAR test prep instructor
...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, I love to tutor most math and science courses including many AP courses. I also have a lot of experience with standardized test prep and love to tutor for...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- CLEP
- +117 subjects

Nazish: STAAR test prep instructor
...English, reading, phonics and elementary math. In my experience, prepping students in reading and phonics is the most enjoyable for me because of the range of techniques that can be used to teach them. As an educator, as much as I stress the importance of fun and playful learning, I am a strong proponent of structured learning as well. Molding young children's minds means providing a strong path but at the same time letting them...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Bachelor of Science, Child Development
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Study Skills
- Math
- Test Prep
- +11 subjects

Brittany: STAAR test prep instructor
...develop their personal expression. As an instructor of academic writing, I have worked to help my pupils to refine their style, be more detailed and specific in their use of language, and to find their own voice to lend their writing a level of authenticity. Stemming from my background in dramatic arts, my classroom also incorporates role-play and theatre-based exercises, as I believe these are the ultimate test of both linguistic skill and attentiveness. Throughout...
Education & Certification
- University of Central Arkansas - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Brock University - Masters, Philosophy/ Comparative Literature
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR EOC
- SAT
- ASPIRE
- +51 subjects

Felix: STAAR test prep instructor
...believe in taking the time to focus on mastering the fundamental concepts of a subject, using that knowledge as a foundation to enrich and further develop one's understanding. Whether it's by designing a personalized lesson plan for the student or adapting to their individual learning habits, I am dedicated to working my hardest to provide students with the best opportunities possible. If you have any questions or concerns at all, please feel free to reach...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ACT
- Pre-Algebra
- +34 subjects

Theodore: STAAR test prep instructor
...then taught middle school debate at Success Academy in Harlem and served as a healthcare advocate. I have extensive experience tutoring English, math, science, and SAT/ACT at the middle school through college level. I have tutored students who went on to be accepted into Ivy League universities. I also am highly skilled at working with students with learning differences such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia as well as students from under-resourced communities. I look forward...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Bachelor in Arts, Folklore Studies
- HoHoKus-Hackensack School of Business and Medical Sciences - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- GED
- ACT
- +126 subjects

Joe: STAAR test prep instructor
...classmates informally while in college and accepted several teaching assistant positions that enabled me to clearly explain course concepts to students with various backgrounds. Instead of lecturing students, I subscribe to a learn by doing method that enables students to articulate core concepts in their own words after hearing an explanation and always provide guidance that aid in understanding. Each of us has a different way of absorbing new ideas and frameworks, and to be...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- MAP
- NNAT
- WPPSI
- +222 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Lamar University - Masters in Education, Educational Administration
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +32 subjects