Educators use Measures of Academic Progress (also known as MAP) assessments to determine each student's performance baseline and can use this computer adaptive test throughout the year, or over a number of years to track a student's academic growth in grades K-12. Parents who are concerned about their student's education level and how they might perform on these tests may want to engage a tutor for MAP prep courses with the help of Varsity Tutors.
These K-12 interim assessments give educators opportunities to tailor their curriculum in specific areas where they see their students struggling. MAP gives teachers tools to create teaching plans and differentiate instruction when they need to. There are three MAP interim assessments: Growth, Reading Fluency (for pupils in K-3), and Skills. The Growth interim assessments may be given three times in a year's time, while Skills can be given as many times as an educator feels they are necessary.
There are MAP exams for mathematics, reading, and language usage. Enrolling your student in MAP classes with a tutor can help to solidify concepts in all of these areas. MAP prep classes can be customized to focus on specific concepts that your student seems to be struggling with. As a tutor gets to know your student, they will be able to develop a plan for reviewing and studying that targets your student's weaknesses and helps to maintain their strengths.
Although the scoring range is between 140 and 300, MAP scoring is not like other tests that students take throughout the academic year - the results are meant to tell educators where students are academically. The computer adaptive test format means that no students take the same test, because the computer delivers questions that are different, based on what the test taker's most recent response to a question was. The table below explains MAP scoring in more detail.
Explaining MAP Scoring
Score Indications | It is not evaluative but tells us where a child is at a given point in time. |
Test Uniqueness | The test is uniquely created for each student based on how he or she responds to a question. |
Question Origin | All questions come from a huge bank of questions each corresponding in difficulty to a particular score. |
Top Scores | Although it is possible to score as high as 265 or more on the reading test and 285 or more on the math test, 240 (reading) and 250 (math) are typical top scores. |
Average Scores | Scores range from about 140 to 300. |
Depending on a pupil's academic year, they may or may not see specific subjects on their MAP exams. Tutors can design a MAP course for your student's specific capabilities and what they're expected to know. They get to know a student's personality and the ways that the specific student learns best, and what techniques might not work for them. This means that they can create study aids and use techniques that your student has shown will work for them, and that are appropriate for a pupil's age and grade level. This may mean vocabulary quizzes, practice exams, visual aids, or other methods.
The table below outlines the specific academic areas and grade levels, as well as the number of questions a student may answer. A MAP course often includes instruction on these topics, as well as study tips.
MAP Tests Breakdowns
Subject (Grade Level) | Approx. Number of Questions |
Language (2-12) | 50 to 53 |
Math (2-5), Math (6+) | 50 to 53 |
Algebra, Geometry, Integrated Math (9+) | 40 to 43 |
Spanish Math (2-5), Spanish Math (6+) | 52 to 55 |
Reading (2-5), Reading (6+) | 40 to 43 |
Science (or "General Science") | 45 |
Science for use with Next Generation Science Standards | 45 |
A MAP class with a private tutor can help your student to concentrate their efforts on areas that they don't quite grasp as well as you might like. A MAP prep class can happen anywhere, thanks to Varsity Tutors' Live Learning Platform. This platform uses the internet to connect a student and their tutor, which provides even more flexibility. This can be important when a student has a particularly crazy schedule and multiple obligations that change over time.
Reach out to Varsity Tutors to schedule a consultation and get matched up with a tutor for a MAP prep course today. We look forward to helping your student to strive for their academic goals.

Molly: Evanston MAP course instructor
...overall thinking needed to fully understand how and why we can come to certain answers. My goal is not to help students to merely get a good grade on the next quiz, but to help build a foundation that allows him or her to find success on their own in future units of study. In each lesson, I use a variety of methods - stories, games, worksheets, writing, manipulative activities, etc. - to ensure (1)...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Northwestern University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- ACT
- SAT
- ISAT
- +111 subjects

Brad: Evanston MAP course instructor
I received my Bachelor's in Computer Science from MIT, and am passionate about helping others! Learning has always come easy to me, and it's something I want to pass on to those around me. I was also the Valedictorian of my high school in colorado and was a top10 all-purpose football player at MIT. Everybody learns differently, and I want to help you achieve your goals!
Education & Certification
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Bachelors, Computer Science and Engineering
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- SAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +25 subjects

Veronica: Evanston MAP course instructor
...attend college. I have a B.A. in History from The University of Chicago and a M.S. in Education from Northwestern University. I am also a former teacher. I taught 5th grade Language Arts and Social Studies at a CPS school. I am certified in elementary education and have a middle school endorsement in Social Studies. I love teaching, learning, and helping students do a little bit of both. I am passionate about politics and education....
Education & Certification
- The University of Chicago - Bachelors, History
- Northwestern University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +52 subjects
Education & Certification
- bar Ilan university - Bachelor, B.S.
- kibbutzim college - Master's/Graduate, Humanities
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- SAT
- REGENTS
- TEAS
- +101 subjects

Ian: Evanston MAP course instructor
I believe in learning as the unlocking of fundamental human potential. I think that knowledge of the world as a whole allows you to be yourself more completely, to express yourself to others, and to make your developing dreams into reality.
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- St Georges University of London - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- GED
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +95 subjects
Eman: Evanston MAP course instructor
...in Integrated Health Sciences. I am currently a Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate with a passion for teaching students. While I tutor various subjects, I am passionate about English, Literature, and Math. In my experience I have helped struggling students read with fluency. I believe that education is necessary for improved quality of life and opens up many different opportunities. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, going on walks, and...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Health Sciences, General
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- PSAT
- CELPIP
- GED
- +210 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, English
- DePaul University - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- GED
- ISEE
- ISEE-Lower Level Writing
- +18 subjects

Sarah: Evanston MAP course instructor
...to understand the concepts at play helps them to not only get the right answer but to understand the why. This skill based learning helps students understand information more thoroughly and generalize the skills across questions more effectively. Outside of work I like to keep active through running and volunteering with a local animal shelter. My ultimate goal is to one day raise and train a dog as my partner in animal assisted therapy services.
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelors, Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Saint Xavier University - Masters, Speech Language Pathology
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- ACT
- ISAT
- PARCC
- +25 subjects

Liani: Evanston MAP course instructor
I am a Senior at Illinois Institute of Technology. I major in physics and astronomy and minor in political science. I'm curious, creative, and passionate about learning and mentorship; helping every star shine bright! I adored the 3 years I have spent tutoring students ages 5-50 in subjects ranging from computer science to swimming!
Education & Certification
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Bachelor of Science, Astrophysics
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Master of Science, Astrophysics
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- STAAR
- SAT
- ACT
- +233 subjects

Serena: Evanston MAP course instructor
...my expertise lies with most premed courses, as well as English and Reading for personal statement writing help. I am strong in all subjects encompassing math: algebra, pre-calculus and calculus. I am an individual who truly believes that tutoring provides the extra help necessary for any student to succeed in what they put their mind to. With just a little help, only you can explore what you are truly possible of achieving. To me, there...
Education & Certification
- University of California-Los Angeles - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- ACT
- ISAT
- K-11th Grade Standardized Tests
- +97 subjects

Linsey: Evanston MAP course instructor
I am a certified teacher and have been teaching all subjects for the past ten years. I specialize in mathematics and social sciences!... I believe that all students can learn! I believe that teachers must create meaningful lessons that excite and engage students.
Education & Certification
- Gonzaga University - Bachelors, Political Science/Religous Studies
- National Louis University - Masters, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- ISAT
- PARCC
- College Essays
- +26 subjects

Danielle: Evanston MAP course instructor
...my BS in Elementary Education. Currently, I am working on my Master's degree in Autism and Developmental Studies as well as an ELL certification. I also hold a teaching certificate. I love working with students of all ages, but specifically the elementary level. I have been a teacher and am used to working with students at all levels in all subjects. I believe everyone has the ability to learn and love to encourage that learning....
Education & Certification
- University of Missouri-St Louis - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
- University of Missouri-St Louis - Masters in Education, Autism/Dev. Studies/ELL Cert
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- STAAR EOC
- ISEE
- CAHSEE
- +35 subjects

Brigette: Evanston MAP course instructor
...in reading and writing, but I love teaching all subjects. I am currently a 6th grade Learning and Behavior Specialist at a Chicago Public School. I've previously taught in preschool, third, fourth, and fifth grades. I am familiar with a variety of curriculums for all subjects including Everyday Math, Go Math, Connected Math, TouchMath, Envision Math, Lucy Caulkins Writing Program, Wilson Reading Program, Fountas and Pinnell Leveled Literacy, and several others. I am passionate about...
Education & Certification
- Cornell College - Bachelors, Elementary Education and French
- University of St Francis - Current Grad Student, Learning and Behavior Specialist
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- PARCC
- SSAT
- ISEE
- +29 subjects
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +87 subjects

Gary: Evanston MAP course instructor
...your success. Whether you are a learner who may be struggling in a certain area of study, a reluctant learner who may not quite see the point of it all - or a person who has a drive to learn everything you can for all it's worth, I say just take a chance on me, and we will work together to accomplish your goals. Thank you for your attention. I look forward to working with...
Education & Certification
- NEIU - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- NEIU - Masters in Education, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- Songwriting
- Music
- Study Skills and Organization
- +26 subjects

Kush: Evanston MAP course instructor
...a mechanical engineering student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I'm the Special Projects Director of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Our committee in ASME is responsible for designing and building our RSO's homecoming float and for making interactive builds for UIUC's Grainger College of Engineering annual Engineering Open House. I'm also a member of the Illini Formula Electric Car team. My favorite hobbies and interests include playing football, playing the drums, learning...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- PSAT
- PARCC
- SAT
- +35 subjects
Education & Certification
- DePaul University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- ACT
- COMPASS
- PSAT
- +88 subjects

Manpreet: Evanston MAP course instructor
...sophomore year of High School, so I have a lot of valuable experience that allows me to assist others with any educational goals that they might have. I am very good with little kids and my peers. I like to call myself a people person because I enjoy interacting with others, and others typically feel comfortable talking to me. I am very passionate about helping others, and can't wait to start working with you!
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- CogAT
- ISAT
- ACT
- +50 subjects

Hope: Evanston MAP course instructor
...12 years of classroom teaching experience. My teaching background is with students 6th grade through 12th grade, but the majority of my classroom teaching time occurred at a local, public high school. I have two undergraduate degrees. One is in English and one is in Journalism. I also have a master's degree in Secondary Curriculum and Instruction. In addition, I have been tutoring for over 20 years! I have worked with ages 5-45. I am...
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Master of Science, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- GED
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +76 subjects
Charles: Evanston MAP course instructor
...to calculus to even real analysis. I can also help people with topics in computer science including data structures, algorithms, and many programming languages. I am also able to tutor English, as I have completed AP Lang and AP Lit, and four years of Latin has given me a good grasp of English grammar. I want to give students intuition behind subjects, as I believe understanding will prove to be more beneficial than pure memorization.
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics and Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- MAP
- ACT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +134 subjects