If your student is considering taking the SSAT, it may be helpful to contact Varsity Tutors and enroll your student in a Cleveland SSAT class. The SSAT is a standardized test that is used by many private and independent schools as a part of their admissions process. The test is designed to measure a student's verbal, math, and reading skills. All of these skills are considered predictors as to whether a student will perform well in a private or independent school. As such, if you want your student to attend a private or independent school, they may need to perform well on the SSAT to boost their chances.
The SSAT is divided into three different levels based on grade level, which includes an Elementary, Middle, and Upper Level. The three levels are similar in some regards. One similarity is that they all feature the same four sections, including Writing, Quantitative, Verbal, and Reading. Additionally, students are not allowed to use a calculator on the Quantitative section on any of the three levels. Finally, the Writing Sample is not graded on any of the three levels. However, it is still a good idea for your student to do their best on this section because it will be submitted to any school they apply to.
In terms of differences, the Elementary Level test has 89 questions, while the Upper and Middle Level tests have 167 questions. Additionally, the material on the different levels varies based on the age group taking the test. One of the biggest differences between the different levels is the way that they're scored. On the Middle and Upper Levels, it is not a good idea for students to guess because they will lose one-quarter of a point for each question they answer incorrectly. However, they will not lose points for leaving a question blank. On the Elementary Level tests, students can feel free to guess if they're not sure about an answer because they won't be penalized for answering questions incorrectly.
What can a Cleveland SSAT class help my student review?
There are many different areas where a Cleveland SSAT class can help your student review. One area where an instructor can help is with the Quantitative Section on the Elementary Level test, which contains 30 questions. Students are given 30 minutes to complete the section, which is focused on basic math skills. It specifically covers probability, measurement, and number sense, among other topics. It may be helpful for your student to be comfortable with division, multiplication, subtraction, and addition for this section of the test.
The Quantitative Section on the Middle and Upper Levels of the test also covers math-related topics, but they contain 50 questions and students will be given 60 minutes to finish it. In terms of topics, both sections cover algebra, arithmetic, and geometry. The main difference between the two levels is that the Middle Level is more focused on mean, median, and range while the Upper Level is more focused on word problems and graphing skills.
The Verbal Section of the Elementary Level test contains 30 questions and students have 30 minutes to finish it. This section focuses on English. It specifically examines students' ability to understand the English language and how well they understand the relationship between different words. It may be helpful for students to have a firm grasp on vocabulary words across a variety of different subject areas for this section.
The Verbal Section on the Upper and Middle Level tests also focus on English, but they contain 60 questions that students are given 30 minutes to finish. This section primarily focuses on analogies and synonyms with the main difference between the levels being that the Upper Level places more of an emphasis on prefixes and suffixes.
The Reading Section on the Elementary Level test is concerned with reading comprehension and it contains 28 questions that students will have 30 minutes to finish. This section requires students to read through passages and answer questions in which identify the main idea of the passage and determine the meaning of words based on context.
The Reading Section on the Middle and Upper Level tests also covers reading comprehension, but they contain 40 questions that students are given 40 minutes to complete. This section requires students to read through both narrative and argumentative passages. In order to do well on this section, it may be useful for students to be able to understand and evaluate arguments and opinions.
Finally, the Writing Sample section on the Elementary Level test has students write a story based on a picture that is provided on the test. The story must have a beginning, middle, and end and students are being tested on their ability to organize a story. The Upper and Middle Level tests have students choose between two different writing prompts for this section. The Middle Level has them choose between two different creative prompts while the Upper Level test gives students the option between a creative and narrative essay.
How can a Cleveland SSAT course help my student prepare?
A Cleveland SSAT course is designed to be as similar as possible to a regular classroom experience. As such, your student will be working with an instructor and other students. Working with an instructor can be helpful because they can help guide your student through the material they may need to know for the test. Working with other students could prove valuable because it offers your student the chance to participate in group activities and group discussions.
How can I find a Cleveland SSAT prep course for my student?
Finding a Cleveland SSAT prep course is as simple as contacting Varsity Tutors either online or over the phone. You can enroll your student in either a two-week or four-week course based on your student's needs. One of the benefits of enrolling your student in a Cleveland SSAT prep course is that your student can take the course online. As such, you won't need to drive them to yet another activity because they can simply take the course online at your house.

Jeanne: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...have tutored extensively in ACT/SAT preparation, with private and professional experience. I also worked for a year at the Cleveland State Writing Center, where I helped college students improve their writing skills. I love tutoring in all its forms, but I am particularly passionate about ACT/SAT prep, writing, and high school math. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and I feel like it is applicable to so many parts of life. It is also...
Education & Certification
- Case Western Reserve University - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- Pre-Calculus
- Essay Editing
- +45 subjects

Peter: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...material. I have 3 years experience as a classroom teacher in a range of environments, along with 3 years tutoring experience. I have current teaching licenses in both Ohio and Maryland for grades 7-12 mathematics, although I am eager to expand my tutoring horizons! I have helped students succeed in math from Algebra 1 through Calculus, though I would be ready and willing to work on subjects from pre-algebra through Calculus 3 (and a bit...
Education & Certification
- Case Western Reserve University - Bachelor in Arts, Theater
- John Carroll University - Masters in Education, 7-12 Mathematics Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Reading
- Calculus 3
- Discrete Math
- +127 subjects

Bernadette: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...tutoring because it allows me to be creative with my lessons. I also enjoy working one on one with the students to see what makes them click. My students have the ability to express themselves in different ways than they do in the classroom. As for my attributes, I am patient, flexible and determined to teach students the lessons they need to learn. I look forward to working with families now and in the future.
Education & Certification
- University of Akron - Bachelor in Arts, Family and Child Development
- Notre Dame College - Masters, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- High School English
- Elementary Math
- Reading
- +39 subjects

Benjamin: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
An educator that understands that each student learns differently, socializes differently, and learns at a different pace. A teacher who understands that the mission of educators and students is to collaboratively develop thoughts and minds that lead to healthy socialization, and academic success.... To be a great educator, one must know how to tailor the curriculum to the individual student. It is the educator's job to identify why some students struggle, and to then implement effective strategies to get students over their learning obstacles.
Education & Certification
- Cleveland State University - Bachelors, History
- Cleveland State University - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary Math
- Reading
- ISEE
- +16 subjects

Erin: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...my bachelor's in early childhood education and currently hold my teaching license. I have taught from pre-school all the way through subbing into middle school and some tutoring into high school. I also have a background in theatre which I love to use in my teachings quite frequently. I play softball and take pictures for fun. I love to make learning fun and as seamless as possible for all involved! Contact me for in person...
Education & Certification
- Cleveland State University - Bachelors, Early Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Writing
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- Essay Editing
- +34 subjects

James: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
I am an experienced educator with a proven track record of success! Patience is the key when trying to master new concepts and material. I will teach simple, proven techniques for all subject matter which has worked for decades with an 97% passing rating.
Education & Certification
- Morgan State University - Bachelor of Science, Radio and Television
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Business Ethics
- SAT Reading
- SSAT- Middle Level
- +82 subjects

Courtney: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...Curriculum and Instruction Technology Facilitator and Bachelor's Degree in Sport Management. My resume will show my commitment to children and my knowledge in differentiating instruction, and demonstrating my communication skills. Being highly adaptable and versatile educator I have enjoyed working with children with ADHD, Autism, Emotionally Disabled, Physically Handicapped, Speech Impairment, and Learning Disability. These experiences have helped me develop into a well-round and compassionate individual who takes each child unique goals, needs, and interest...
Education & Certification
- Robert Morris University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Notre Dame College - Master of Arts Teaching, Driver and Safety Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- ISEE-Lower Level Writing
- ISEE- Middle Level
- +16 subjects

Krista: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...Kent State University in Clinical Mental Health. In addition to being a teacher, I am a licensed therapist. I currently work with students in grades K-5. I taught 3rd grade (8 years), kindergarten, and preschool. I enjoy working with students in all grade levels and have discovered, no matter the student's grade level they all have something special to offer and great potential to learn. I understand that not all students learn the same way...
Education & Certification
- The University of Akron - Bachelors, Elementary Education with Reading Endorsement
- Kent State University at Kent - Masters, Clinical Mental Health
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Other
- Study Skills and Organization
- Reading
- +16 subjects
Education & Certification
- Ohio State University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- Cleveland State University - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Writing
- Elementary School Math
- GED Math
- +28 subjects

Carly: Cleveland SSAT course instructor
...and everything in between. I tutor ACT and SAT test prep, biology, and many levels of English and math. My favorite subjects to tutor are biology and math. My teaching philosophy is one of guided practice. I find that the most effective way to teach is to give a step by step explanation, and have the student answer conceptual questions, with the ultimate intent of the student replicating the process on their own. To me,...
Education & Certification
- Vanderbilt University - Current Undergrad Student, Cellular and Molecular Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT Mathematics
- Algebra
- Technology and Coding
- +39 subjects