If you've got a student who's gearing up for the ISEE, they may benefit from talking to Varsity Tutors about our Boulder ISEE prep courses. The ISEE, or Independent School Entrance Examination, is used by independent and magnet schools to assess prospective students. The test comes in several configurations and covers a lot of academic material, so it can be tough to figure out how to begin preparing. Plus, as the test may be a factor in determining your student's chances of getting into their preferred schools, you may be feeling stressed about how to get them prepared for test day. A Boulder ISEE course can help students come to grips with the content knowledge they'll need to strive for success on the ISEE, and can also get them acclimated to the structure of the test and what test-taking strategies they can employ.
A Boulder ISEE class is taught in an online classroom where your student will participate in teacher-led group discussions alongside other students. Online attendance makes these classes easily accessible, even if you and your student have packed schedules. There are also many class times available, so whether you're looking for night classes, weekend classes, or something else, we can provide options for your lifestyle. And with 2-week and 4-week class sections available, and new classes starting every week, we can an offer your student direction no matter when they're planning on taking the test and how much preparation time they've got left.
What will a Boulder ISEE course teach my student?
The ISEE comes in several different configurations. If your student is applying for 2nd through 4th grade admission, they'll be taking the Primary Level test. The Lower Level ISEE correlates to the 5th and 6th grades, the Middle Level the 7th and 8th, and the Upper Level is for all students entering the 9th grade and above. We'll provide a summary of each of these tests here, to give you an idea of what your student will be studying in an ISEE course.
The Upper, Middle, and Lower Level tests all use a similar format, with sections covering Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Math Achievement, and an Essay section. At the Upper Level, Verbal Reasoning asks students to understand the use of synonyms, context clues, word roots, suffixes and prefixes. Quantitative Reasoning is intended to evaluate students' mathematical thinking skills and asks questions involving problem-solving, probability, and data analysis, drawing on a variety of concepts from algebra and geometry. The Reading Comprehension section will ask students to read passages and be able to draw out the important information, as well as extrapolate non-explicit information. Math Achievement focuses on math operations and will ask students to solve equations involving variables, exponents, the properties of triangles and quadrilateral shapes, coordinate grids, and more. The Essay section isn't graded on any level of the ISEE, but it is provided to schools as an example of a student's writing abilities and gives them a chance to get to know the student. Upper Level students will want to show an ability to write an interesting and well-organized piece of work that uses proper grammar and spelling.
Much of the Middle Level test is similar to the Upper Level, but the expectations of the test are adjusted appropriately. On the Middle Level ISEE, Verbal Reasoning will ask vocabulary questions appropriate to middle school to high school level students. Quantitative Reasoning will involve measurement problems that will draw on geometry and data analysis skills. Reading Comprehension will ask students to read passages, answer questions and understand figurative language. Math Achievement will require knowledge of prime factorization, estimation and proportions, Venn Diagrams, and working with geometric shapes. The Essay will provide a prompt appropriate to middle school students.
At the Lower Level, Verbal Reasoning will cover elementary to middle school level vocabulary and will ask students to use context to complete sentences. Quantitative Reasoning will ask students to be able to make comparisons and estimations and to understand the logic of mathematics. Reading Comprehension will expect students to understand how to locate main arguments of passages, and use information to answer questions. Math Achievement covers simple algebra and geometry operations. The Essay section is similar to other sections, but the prompt will again be adjusted to be interesting to elementary school students.
The Primary Level ISEE is a little different. There are multiple choice Math and Reading sections, which will assess students on their basic math skills and reading comprehension respectively, as well as a Writing section where students are given a picture prompt and asked to write a story in response. The 2nd grade ISEE also includes an Auditory Comprehension section where students will listen to and respond to passages that are delivered aloud.
How can a Boulder ISEE class help my student prepare?
Regardless of what level of the ISEE your student will be taking, a Boulder ISEE course can bring them into conversation with other students at their level, with group discussion classes taught by an expert instructor who has undergone a rigorous interview process. These discussions will take place in an online classroom, where students will see, hear, and speak with their peers and their instructor just as if they were taking a course at a brick-and-mortar institution, but with some added benefits. Your student will be able to study wherever they find themselves most productive and can find a course that fits neatly into their schedule. In a group course, your student will be able to talk through content and test-taking strategies with other students who are planning on taking the ISEE, which can expose them to new learning methods and ways of understanding material. They'll also be able to share their own knowledge with the class, which can strengthen their own understanding and may make them feel more assured going into the test.
There are of course definite advantages to private instruction as well. That's why a Boulder ISEE course will let your student reserve extra time to spend one-on-one with their instructor, to make sure that they can be confident in their abilities, even in sections they feel they need to spend more work brushing up on. The entire structure of the course is intended to provide a wealth of opportunities for success, from how it's scheduled to how it's presented to the learning opportunities it aims to give your student.
How can I get my student signed up?
Varsity Tutors is offering Boulder ISEE courses at a variety of times that can fit most any schedule. If you contact us today, we can get you enrolled and can also provide more information about what the course will cover, how it will be taught, and the benefits your student may see. As the ISEE is focused on fundamental elements of primary and secondary school education, an ISEE prep course can provide benefits for your student even after the test is over and done with and can help them build test-taking confidence that may pay off for years to come. Reach out to Varsity Tutors and make an investment in the future of your child's education.

Emily: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...with 9th and 10th grade students at a low-performing public high school to help them get back on track, focusing on evidence-based interventions for Algebra and English. I loved integrating abstract algebraic concepts into relevant examples for my students. I've also lived in France for two years, so I am nearly fluent in French and enjoy sharing the language and culture with others. After City Year, I taught English at a middle and high school...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
- University of Colorado Denver - Current Grad Student, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT- Middle Level
- Geography
- Math
- +43 subjects

Rachel: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2012 with a BA in Elementary Education. While earning my degree, I spent a year student-teaching in a 5th grade classroom the elementary subjects of Math, Science, Social Studies and Reading. While student-teaching, I also took a program to earn my TEFL/TESOL/TESL certification from Oxford Seminars. In 2013, I moved to South Korea to teach English as a Foreign Language to students in 4th-8th grade at the Avalon English...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Reading
- ESL/ELL
- Earth Science
- +22 subjects

Brent: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...in a number of science, math, and engineering courses. I graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2011 with a Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering and an NCAA Championship title. GO IRISH! After graduating, I supported the Business Risk Office of an Auto Finance as a data analyst for 4 years before moving from my home state of Texas to Colorado. My tutoring style is patient, analytical, thorough, and engaged. My main goal...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelors, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT Math
- Differential Equations
- Algebra 3/4
- +42 subjects

Rod: Boulder ISEE course instructor
I have been teaching management and economics at different levels in the last decades. Teaching is my passion. The best compliment that I have received from students is when they say: You are a real teacher. My explanations are simple and full of practical examples. I have worked as a professor, manager and international business consultant in different countries. I have had a broad educational background in Economics, Finance, Management, Technology and Education.... Sometimes students do not understand the theory, because it has too much math or graphs or you do not know to answer an assignment. In those cases they need simple, practical explanations with examples. That is what I do. In a few words, I help students to improve their comprehension and grades. There is an old English saying: "There are no bad students, there are bad teachers".
Education & Certification
- UBA - Bachelors, Engineering
- University of California-Berkeley - Masters in Business Administration, H.H.Humphrey Fellow
- Stanford University - Unknown, Economics
- Capella University - Master of Science, Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Study Skills
- IB Business & Management SL
- Languages
- +84 subjects

Jenna: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...taught middle school English for 4 years. I tutor a variety of subjects, but I am most passionate about reading, writing, and math. I believe that strong literacy skills are necessary to advance in any field and that a firm understanding of mathematical concepts is a great way to develop critical thinking. I love working with learners of all ages! In my spare time, I like to read, listen to true crime podcasts, hike, camp,...
Education & Certification
- Boston University - Bachelor in Arts, Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Business
- Algebra
- Social Sciences
- +52 subjects

Samantha: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...teaching. I taught special education for two years. One year was at the middle school level, and now my second year at the high school level. I am teaching science. I worked at a summer camp one summer with students of all ages. I travel whenever I get a chance and have traveled in Europe and all over the United States. I love science and teaching test prep. I am very passionate about students not...
Education & Certification
- Kansas State University - Bachelor of Science, Agriculture Education
- Walden University - Master of Science, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Social Sciences
- SAT Subject Tests
- Social Studies
- +33 subjects

Katharine : Boulder ISEE course instructor
...and I received my bachelors degree in Psychology and Human Development. Currently, I am a candidate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and expect to receive my masters degree in 2016. While attending Connecticut College, I interned at The Waterford Country School, which is a residential education facility for youth with behavioral and emotional disorders. During that three-semester internship, I worked both as a classroom assistant and outdoor adventure education leader....
Education & Certification
- Connecticut College - Bachelor in Arts, Psyschology
- University of Denver - Master of Social Work, Masters of Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Essay Editing
- English
- Psychology
- +30 subjects

Kate: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...I have substantial experience in curriculum development, academic coaching, and mentoring. I have also enjoyed facilitating nonviolence, peace, and personal narrative development workshops for youth of all ages. Working with a variety of young people, I have experience with a diversity of learning and emotional differences, with various tools to support executive functioning skills and reduction of academic anxiety. It is a true gift for me to watch a student regain his or her curiosity...
Education & Certification
- Bowdoin College - Bachelors, Anthropology
- University of Colorado Denver - Masters, Medical Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Homework Support
- Social Sciences
- +16 subjects

Jim: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...have become a math tutor, mentor and substitute teacher in the Denver Public School system and an historical adviser for a national high school competition focused on the U.S. Constitution. Since my approach to studying the past has been very comprehensive, I have also developed active interests in literature, music, art and architecture and popular culture. Along with a making a good meal, reading widely, hanging out with friends and family (including a tri-pod Labrador),...
Education & Certification
- Princeton/Empire State College - Bachelor in Arts, History & Social Theory
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - PHD, American History
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- 10th Grade Math
- Calculus
- 7th Grade Math
- +110 subjects

Erin: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...I worked for City Year Philadelphia, an Americorps program that places tutors in high-need, low-performing public schools. I spent the year working with a 7th grade class in North Philadelphia. I tutored small groups of students in math, literacy, science, and social studies. Currently, I continue to work with youth as a Denver Math Fellow at a public school in Denver. My experiences have made me a patient and engaging tutor who is able to...
Education & Certification
- Muhlenberg College - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology and Communications
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Middle School Math
- PSAT Writing Skills
- Math
- +49 subjects

Jacquelynn: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...they come across a challenge. My students would always ask me what subject was my favorite. What an incredibly difficult question! I love connecting students with the stories they are reading. I love breaking down difficult math skills in a way that students understand. I love the depth of learning within science. I love the fascinating stories found in history. I'm excited to be on this journey with you! What are your goals? Your passions?...
Education & Certification
- Randolph College - Bachelors, Psychology
- Capella University - PHD, Educational Leadership and Management
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- High School English
- SSAT- Middle Level
- Homework Support
- +20 subjects

Justin : Boulder ISEE course instructor
My name is Justin and I've been teaching for almost a decade now. I graduated from Rutgers, Cum Laude, where I attended Mason Gross School of the Arts and studied Jazz Guitar. I teach a wide array of music subjects, in addition to instruments, and history. I ended up getting a B.A. I love teaching all ages of students and learning styles and am committed to helping my students achieve their highest potential.
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Bachelor in Arts, Music
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- High School Political Science
- Other
- Bass Guitar
- +77 subjects

Jen: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education/English and a Master's Degree in Experiential Education. I worked for many years in alternative education settings such as a traveling high school as well as wilderness and environmental education. I have a deep passion for the outdoors! Later in life, I realized I had a strong interest in medicine and working with women. I became a doula, then a nurse, a lactation consultant, and a midwife. I have also...
Education & Certification
- Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Science, Language Arts Teacher Education
- Frontier Nursing University - Master of Science, Midwifery
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- OLSAT
- ANCC - American Nurses Credentialing Center
- CLEP
- +96 subjects

Joellen: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...science teacher in Mississippi and Colorado. I tutor a few different subjects, but I am really passionate about helping students improve their standardized test scores as they prepare for college. Improving SAT and ACT scores can really open doors to admission and scholarships at great schools! Currently I am a graduate student studying social work at the University of Denver. In my spare time, I can be found curled up on the couch with a...
Education & Certification
- Ohio University - Bachelor of Science, Journalism - Public relations
- University of Denver - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- ACT Science
- SAT Mathematics
- Other
- +35 subjects

Doug: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...of my students are both intellectually gifted and have a learning disability. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Michigan. I have taught college courses in psychology and organizational behavior, and recently received a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Northern Colorado. I enjoy working with students of all ages and backgrounds. My tutoring style emphasizes identifying and building upon student strengths, adapting my methods and explanations to best...
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - PHD, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Social Studies
- ACT Math
- Writing
- +71 subjects

Brian: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...can learn math! Sometimes it just takes the right person to help them understand where their mistakes are! I have been a high school math teacher since 2005 and have taught and tutored every level of math from Pre-Algebra through College Calculus including IB math and AP Calculus! I know I can help any math student be successful!! I start by seeing what the student knows and then working from there to create understanding on...
Education & Certification
- Fort Lewis College - Bachelors, Chemistry
- Colorado School of Mines - Masters, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Study Skills
- Chemical Engineering
- ACCUPLACER Elementary Algebra
- +47 subjects

Keith: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...My passion for learning continues as I am currently pursuing a PhD in Systems and Engineering Management. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Mathematics, Computers, Business, and Continuous Improvement initiatives. In my experience, helping share my knowledge with others has been very rewarding. I am a firm believer in self-improvement, with education leading to an improved quality of life. I aim to challenge and share this passion with...
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Science
- Macroeconomics
- Performing Arts
- +188 subjects

Elizabeth: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...Engineering and Development. I tutored extensively in college and in the years between my degrees, I worked as a teacher with The Institute for Reading Development. I tutor a wide range of subjects, but my first academic loves are Reading, Writing, and Math. I also really enjoy helping students and parents prepare for standardized tests, where it is crucial not only to learn the material but also strategies for success on test day. My favorite...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Elementary School Math
- Elementary Math
- Social Sciences
- +45 subjects

Alisa: Boulder ISEE course instructor
...Education. Previous to that I did coursework through several online community colleges and Eastern New Mexico University in Speech Language Pathology. I also earned my BA in Music and BS in Human Development Family Studies from CSU. My most recent position was Early Childhood Special Education teacher in a Head Start classroom. I love working with our youngest learners and learners with special needs. I am licensed to teach through third grade and have worked with...
Education & Certification
- Colorado State University-Fort Collins - Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
- University of Northern Colorado - Master of Arts, Early Childhood Special Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Writing
- Microsoft Office
- ACT English
- +95 subjects

Shannon: Boulder ISEE course instructor
I believe all students can learn. We just need to find the right ways to teach them. Not every student learns in the same way, so it is up to teachers and tutors to help students discover how they learn best. It is often hard to find this out in a classroom of 25 or more students, but with a tutor, students can often find out how they can become lifelong learners and enrich their...
Education & Certification
- Colorado State University - Bachelors, English
- Grand Canyon University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- ISEE
- Elementary School Reading
- SSAT
- Middle School Reading
- +22 subjects