One-on-one reading instruction allows tutors to identify exactly where a student is struggling—whether it's decoding, fluency, vocabulary, or comprehension strategies—and target those areas directly. Tutors can also adapt pacing and material to match each student's interests and reading level, which increases engagement and retention. Research on personalized learning shows that tailored instruction significantly outperforms whole-class teaching for reading improvement.

Yes. Tutors work with students on developing strong thesis statements, supporting arguments with textual evidence, and organizing analytical essays effectively. They provide feedback on essay structure, help students articulate their interpretations clearly, and guide them through the revision process. This personalized feedback is especially valuable for students learning to move beyond plot summary to deeper critical thinking about literature.

Varsity Tutors connects students of all ages with reading specialists—from elementary students building foundational phonics and fluency skills to high school students analyzing Shakespeare or preparing for standardized reading tests. Whether a student needs help with early literacy, grade-level comprehension, or advanced analytical reading, tutors tailor their approach to meet students where they are developmentally.

During the first session, the tutor will assess the student's current reading level, identify specific challenges, and learn about their reading goals and interests. This might involve discussing recent reading assignments, listening to the student read aloud, or reviewing comprehension strategies they've tried. The tutor then creates a personalized plan focused on the areas that need the most support.

Absolutely. Tutors help students develop test-taking strategies specific to standardized reading assessments like the ACT Reading section, SAT Evidence-Based Reading, or state assessments. They teach time management, question analysis techniques, and how to find supporting evidence in passages. Personalized practice with targeted feedback helps students build confidence and improve their scores.

Rather than memorizing isolated word lists, tutors teach vocabulary in context—through reading passages, word families, and etymology. This approach helps students understand not just definitions but how words are actually used in literature and academic texts. Tutors also help students develop strategies for tackling unfamiliar words independently, which builds reading confidence and comprehension.

You can tell Varsity Tutors about your student's reading goals, grade level, and any specific challenges they're facing. We'll match them with a tutor who has expertise in those areas and understands how to work with students at that level. Once matched, you can schedule sessions at times that work for your family, and the tutor will personalize instruction based on your student's needs from day one.