If you're seeking independent school or private education for your student, Varsity Tutors can enroll your student in a Washington, DC SSAT course. It's important to start your student on a quality education path to help them in the future.
Taking a Washington, DC SSAT class can help students have better insight into the testing material. Varsity Tutors can help your student get a general layout and feel of the test. Here's some background on the SSAT.
What Is the SSAT?
The SSAT is a standardized test that helps determine the abilities of students looking to enroll in an independent or private school. Your student will be tested on basic verbal, math, and reading skills to see if they can have a successful academic path in an independent or private school setting.
At the Elementary Level, 3rd-grade applicants will apply to an independent school for the 4th grade. For 4th-grade applicants, they'll apply to an independent school for 5th grade.
The Middle Level is for 5th, 6th, or 7th-graders that want to attend an independent middle school within the next year.
The Upper Level is for students from 8th-11th grade seeking admission to an independent high school in the following year.
In all levels of the test, the Writing sample and Experimental section are unscored. All schools that your student applies to will be sent their Writing sample. Additionally, your student will not be allowed to use a calculator on the Quantitative section at any level.
If your student is on the Elementary Level, guessing is encouraged since they won't be docked points for a wrong answer. However, Middle Level and Upper Level students will receive one point for each correct answer and lose a quarter of a point if they answer incorrectly (there's no penalty for any unanswered questions). Here's more in-depth information about each level of the test.
What could a Washington, DC SSAT course help your student cover?
Elementary Level
The test consists of 89 questions and allows your student just under 2 hours to complete it.
On the Quantitative Section, students have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions. Your student will cover basic math in the following topics: number sense, properties and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and spatial sense, measurement, and probability.
Students have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions on the Verbal Section. It assesses your student's knowledge of the English language. Your student should be mindful of language, word relationships, vocabulary, synonyms, and subtleties in word meanings.
For the Reading Section, your student will have 30 minutes to answer 7 passages with 4 questions apiece (28 questions total). This tests reading comprehension, particularly when it comes to finding the main idea of a passage, meanings of words, and identifying information.
Students are given 15 minutes to create a prompt for the Writing Sample. Your student may be asked to write a simple story on a picture prompt that needs a beginning, middle, and ending. Your student could be tested on their organization, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
The Experimental Section also allows 15 minutes for completing 15-17 questions.
Middle Level
This test gives students just under 3 hours to complete 167 questions.
In the Writing Sample, your student should be mindful of choosing one creative prompt to base their story. Additionally, your student should be aware of writing techniques, such as grammar, spelling, organization, and punctuation for this portion of the test.
The Quantitative Section gives students 50 questions (25 questions for both sections); each totaling 30 minutes a section (1 hour total). It may be helpful for your student to review concepts in arithmetic, elementary algebra, geometry.
In the Reading Section, there are 40 passage-based questions to complete within 40 minutes. Students will have to interpret the meaning of both narrative and argumentative passages. To prepare for this section, students could brush up on techniques, like finding the main idea of the passage, words and phrases in context, and understanding the author's tone.
For the Verbal Section, your student will have 30 minutes to answer 60 questions (30 synonyms, 30 analogies). It may be a good idea for your student to improve their vocabulary in order to help with different concepts, such as word roots, prefixes, and suffixes, and relating ideas and words to the context.
The Experimental Section gives your student 15 minutes to complete 16 questions.
Upper Level
The test allows students under 3 hours to finish 167 questions.
Your student is given 25 minutes to complete the Writing Sample. Students should be aware of their choice to pick one prompt out of two selections (one creative and one traditional essay). Also, it may be helpful to review skills in organizing a story or essay; writing with good grammar, spelling, punctuation; supporting a statement with examples.
The Quantitative Section consists of 2 sections of 25 questions, which totals 50 questions. There are 2 30-minute sections (1 hour total). Your student should be aware of concepts such as data analysis, coordinate and plane geometry, and algebraic equations.
To get through the Reading Section, your student will have 40 minutes to answer 40 questions. Your student should be mindful of how to read through passages to understand argumentative and narrative perspectives. This can be helpful in formulating and evaluating opinions and arguments.
The Writing Section allows for 30 minutes to complete 60 questions (30 analogies, 30 synonyms). Your student should be aware of different prefixes and suffixes within Anglo-Saxon, Greek, and Latin dialect.
How does a Washington, DC SSAT prep course assist your student?
A Washington, DC SSAT course has an interactive, online setting. With good preparation, your student will have a good foundation for studies in an independent or private school. An instructor can help clear up different concepts that your student may find tricky.
Also, being able to collaborate with others can make it easier to dissect large amounts of information. This can be a very helpful method for your student to get more out of SSAT review sessions.
How can I find a Washington, DC SSAT review?
Going to a different school can be a big change of pace for your student. Varsity Tutors can help you find a good Washington, DC SSAT class so your student gets the assistance needed to get ready to take the test.
Getting this assistance early on can lead to quality learning in your student's formative years. Contact Varsity Tutors today to find out more information about a Washington, DC SSAT course.
Cynthia: Washington SSAT course instructor
...my PhD in Neuroscience in the fall at Johns Hopkins. I have been tutoring high school students outside of class in college and involved in STEM academics and research mentorship as well as a translation program from and to English outside of class. I speak Japanese and French, and I have taken the PSATs, SATs, 10 APs, and the GREs successfully. I would be willing to help with any of these subjects, with math, science,...
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelors, Neuroscience
- Johns Hopkins University - PHD, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +72 subjects
David: Washington SSAT course instructor
...that it has intrinsic value in making the world a better place. I have taught argumentation and debate at the Harvard Debate Council summer workshops, and have developed and taught a political philosophy curriculum at the Harvard Center for Hellenic Studies in Greece. I love working with kids, and I read and write children's books and young adult fiction in my spare time (as well as poetry and adult fiction). I love exploring ideas in...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Current Undergrad, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- ISEE
- +34 subjects
Erin: Washington SSAT course instructor
...with science. I have a lot of experience teaching disparate subjects. I have been teaching biology, chemistry, physics, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus to high school and university students for about 12 years. Similarly, have 12 years of experience with the SAT, ACT, and ISEE/SSAT, and about 4 years of experience teaching GRE and GMAT. As far as hobbies go, I enjoy reading science fiction, classic literature, and comic books. Rock-climbing is a big thing for...
Education & Certification
- Stanford - Bachelors, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- TOEFL
- ASVAB
- +77 subjects
Samantha: Washington SSAT course instructor
...students improve and build confidence in areas they used to be nervous about or dislike. One of the reasons I enjoy tutoring French is that I myself was initially very afraid to learn a foreign language. I had a speech impediment as a child and had to attend speech therapy, so I know very well how nerve-wracking it can be to learn, and especially speak, a foreign language. But not only did I learn French,...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, 1. International and Comparative Political Science 2. Economics
- Johns Hopkins University-Schools of Advanced International Studies - Current Grad Student, 1. Conflict Management 2. International Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CogAT
- Advanced Placement
- GED
- +96 subjects
Matt: Washington SSAT course instructor
...complete a Masters program at Georgetown University in human physiology. Given the amount of schooling I have gone through myself, I have taken a wide range of subjects and more standardized tests than I would like to admit. I have taught students of almost every age in various fields such as elementary science, Hebrew, chemistry, MCAT prep, and many more.. My ultimate plan is to go to medical school, but in the meantime I try...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- PSAT
- +85 subjects
Seth: Washington SSAT course instructor
...to be a high school social studies teacher. I tutored peers in college in subjects like US History and political science, and I have worked with basic reading and math skills with New American elementary students in Vermont. During my junior year of college, I spent several months in Cuba, where I tutored both elementary school students and adults in English. Helping students understand new concepts is one of the great pleasures in life. I...
Education & Certification
- Connecticut College - Bachelors, International Relations
- Towson University - Current Grad Student, Master's of Arts in Teaching- Secondary Social Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- HSPT
- +57 subjects
Richard: Washington SSAT course instructor
...levels. I pride myself on finding the right approach that best suits a particular student. After completing a bachelor of arts in political science at Yale University, I served 8 years as a combat arms officer in the US Army. I coached, trained and mentored soldiers and junior officers in a wide variety of tasks. After leaving the military, I completed graduate coursework for a master's degree in international affairs at Tufts University. Finally, I...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
- Tufts University - Masters, International Affairs
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +45 subjects
Jennifer: Washington SSAT course instructor
...have continued tutoring in a professional capacity since then. I have helped many types of students learn a wide variety of subjects. I want to help others succeed, and I like helping people to learn. I find the most joy in seeing a students eyes light up when what I have been teaching them clicks in their heads. I enjoy tutoring one-on-one since I have found that engaging a student directly in the learning process...
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Bachelor in Arts, Classical Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +15 subjects
Cornelia: Washington SSAT course instructor
...can navigate their network and privilege. One may be born into destitute circumstances, but with their education can rise above their situation. One of the only things that a child should not have to earn is their right to knowledge. Education is a human right. Every single child should be fully equipped to chose their own path in life. Every student under my tutelage will be given access to the best I have to share...
Education & Certification
- American University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication
- Lesley College - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- Summer
- +23 subjects
Natalie: Washington SSAT course instructor
...with my Bachelor's in Biochemistry and my Master's in Forensic Science and Law. I was drawn to this major because of my interest in science as well as mysteries (especially Nancy Drew as a kid!). In my free time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, playing tennis, working on arts and crafts, and traveling My love of learning started at a young age, thanks to my parents and a library card that opened my eyes to a...
Education & Certification
- Duquesne University - Bachelors, Biochemistry
- Duquesne University - Masters, Forensic Science and Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- REGENTS
- ACT
- +77 subjects
Daeyong: Washington SSAT course instructor
...to a real-world scenario. Though I particularly love to tutor students in programming (especially Python or Java) and all levels of math up to Calculus BC, I also find it enjoyable to tutor students in SAT English and Math. I believe in a project based and interactive approach to education, in which students talk as much as tutors, leading to them fully comprehending topics. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy playing the violin (I can teach...
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SSAT Prep - Upper Level Class
- SAT
- +54 subjects
Jessica: Washington SSAT course instructor
...the same elementary school for almost 12 years. I absolutely love what I do and cannot ever see myself doing anything different. Ever since I can remember I had wanted to become a teacher. There is such a joy that comes from interacting with my students and getting to know them and watching them grow, both personally and academically. I believe that there is always a way to be successful, no matter what obstacles may...
Education & Certification
- Frostburg State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- McDaniel College - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- PARCC
- SAT Subject Tests
- +27 subjects
Annie: Washington SSAT course instructor
...wasn't a punishment--it was another way to express himself. As a freelancer, I've worked as a writer for a test preparation company, giving me a solid background in test-taking strategies for the SAT and ACT. I love helping students learn strategies to unlock these intimidating tests! In my spare time, I enjoy hiking and camping. I'm obsessed with Civil War historyI fell in love with the era when I started visiting the battlefields! I also...
Education & Certification
- Williams College - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +43 subjects
Jonida: Washington SSAT course instructor
I have a strong background in International Relations, Economics, and Mathematics. I have experience tutoring K-12 math, science, English and history. I enjoy working with students of all ages and have experience teaching students with autism, anxiety, depression, and more.
Education & Certification
- University of New York Tirana - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
- Tufts University - Master of Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +78 subjects
Cindy: Washington SSAT course instructor
...the tutor can dissect the content and build understanding alongside the student on a smaller scale. The student is now one-on-one with the instructor and is able to delve fully into the subject and gain a better feel of the subject. Secondly, exposure is everything. The more a student works with the subject, the better chance they have at remembering and internalizing the skill. A tutor may also allow for dialogue to begin where the...
Education & Certification
- Saint Johns University - Bachelors, Childhood Education 1-6. Mathematics content
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Reading
- High School English
- +22 subjects
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +41 subjects
Erin: Washington SSAT course instructor
...students should be given the opportunity to explain and explore where and why they think they are struggling. During my time in the US Army Nurse Corps, I precepted student nurses during their clinical rotations and continued to do this as a civilian working at Arkansas Children's Hospital. I attended Temple University for 3 years to study athletic training prior to the decision to change my major to Nursing. I attended nursing school at Salisbury...
Education & Certification
- Salisbury University - Bachelor of Science, Nursing (RN)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- WISC IV
- WPPSI
- +117 subjects
Moe: Washington SSAT course instructor
...we are unaware of it because we do not pay attention to it but that does not mean it does not exist. After most sessions, I assign few problems for the student to work on them at home before our next sessions (these assignments could be chosen from the textbook or I could formulate them myself). This method affirms student understanding of the subjects covered. Guarantees: I can guarantee you that if you follow the...
Education & Certification
- Lebanese Amerian University - Bachelors, Electrical Engineering
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock - PHD, Applied Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- GED
- SAT Subject Tests
- +61 subjects
Denise: Washington SSAT course instructor
...and adults in a variety of subject areas. My concentration in Special Education has afforded me the opportunity to have developed a multitude of skills and strategies for teaching. I use this knowledge to instruct in all academic subjects, vocational and life skills, and personal development. I don't have a particular favorite subject to teach. My joy comes from watching someone grasp a new skill or concept that they did not have, or think they...
Education & Certification
- Hampton University - Bachelor of Science, Special Education
- Trinity Washington University - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ISEE
- GED
- +71 subjects
Kelsey: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Mathnasium, and I am currently a data analyst for Parsons Corporation. I have tutored privately, for a nonprofit, for tutoring centers at James Madison University, or for Mathnasium since 2009. I specialize in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus 1. I feel comfortable working with students of all ages and aptitudes. I have experience working with students with special needs, brain injuries, and ADHD. I am passionate about teaching math because each student thinks...
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelor of Science, Applied Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +21 subjects