If you are considering having your student apply to an independent or private school, it could be a good idea to reach out to Varsity Tutors and enroll your student in a Philadelphia SSAT class. The SSAT is one of the entrance exams used by many independent and private schools as a component in their admissions process. Thus, doing well on the test could improve the likelihood that your student is accepted into the private or independent school of your dreams. The SSAT measures students' reading, verbal, and math skills because these are considered important when it comes to predicting academic success.
Depending on your student's grade level, they will take one of the three levels for the SSAT, which include an Elementary Level, Middle Level, and Upper Level. The Elementary Level test is offered to students in elementary school, the Middle Level is given to students who want to go to an independent or private middle school, and the Upper Level is designed for students who are going to attend high school.
What can a Philadelphia SSAT class help my student review?
The SSAT tests on a lot of different information across a range of academic subjects. For this reason, it may be useful for your student to take a class that helps them review topics across all four sections of the SSAT. All of the levels contain a Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, and Writing section. There are some differences between the sections across the three levels though, including the fact that the Middle and Upper Levels have 167 questions while the Elementary Level only has 89. There are also some differences in scoring as students lose one-quarter of a point for answering a question incorrectly on the Upper and Middle Levels while there isn't a penalty for choosing the wrong answer on the Elementary Level. What follows is a brief overview of the four sections and what your student will encountering during each one.
Verbal
The Verbal Section is geared towards the English language on all of the levels. The Elementary Level test contains 30 questions and students are provided with 30 minutes to finish it. This section focuses the majority of its attention on vocabulary and the relationship between different words. In contrast, the Upper and Middle Levels contain 60 questions, with 30 of them covering analogies and the other 30 covering synonyms. Students only have 30 minutes to complete this section despite it having 30 extra questions.
Quantitative
The Quantitative section covers math related topics across all three levels. The three levels are similar in the sense that students are not allowed to use a calculator for this section regardless of their age. The Elementary Level test is comprised of 30 questions and students have 30 minutes to complete the entire section. At this level, the test is based more on basic math, including shapes, properties, and graph interpretation. It may be helpful for your student to be skilled in fractions and place values as well.
The Middle and Upper Levels have 50 total questions on this section and students have an hour to finish it. These questions cover slightly more complex math at this level such as arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Reading
The Reading section prioritizes reading comprehension across all three levels. In general, students are required to read through various passages and answer questions about what they read. The biggest difference between the three levels is the reading-level needed to comprehend the passages. While the Elementary Level is primarily focused on students being able to identify the main idea of the passage, the Middle and Upper Levels expect students to pick out details and make predictions and inferences based on the information provided.
Writing
The Writing Section isn't scored at any of the three levels, but it is still a good decision for your student to do their best on this section because their writing sample will be submitted to any school they apply.
At the Elementary Level, students are given 15 minutes to complete this section. They are given a picture and they are required to write a story about it. The story has to include a beginning, middle, and end because students are being tested on their spelling and punctuation skills as well as how well they can organize their story.
At the Middle and Upper Levels, students are given 25 minutes to finish this particular section. Your student will be given two writing prompts of which they must choose one. At the Middle Level, students have to choose between two separate creative options, while they have the option to choose between a creative or narrative prompt at the Upper Level.
How can a Philadelphia SSAT course help my student prepare?
Philadelphia SSAT courses are available for your student to take online. This can be helpful when it comes to being able to fit a course into your student's schedule. Whether your student is in the robotics club or on the swim team, it can be difficult to find time to study with so many other activities going on. That is part of what makes an online SSAT class so convenient because you won't have to stress about finding time to get your student to another activity. They can simply stay at home and still have the opportunity to prepare for the SSAT.
SSAT courses are designed to be as close to a regular classroom experience as possible. Your student will have access to an instructor who can help them review the necessary material while also giving them the chance to collaborate with other students in class discussions and group activities.
How can I enroll my student in a Philadelphia SSAT prep course?
Enrolling your student in a Philadelphia SSAT prep course can be as easy as reaching out to Varsity Tutors either online or over the phone. Don't hesitate to contact us today. Our educational consultants are ready to answer any questions you may have and enroll your student in a two-week or four-week session.
Julie: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...truly believe that reading and writing is the key to understanding and interacting with the world in a positive way. I know certain books have changed my life and I hope to instill the same passion I have for the written word within all my students! I have been teaching both high school and middle school in Philadelphia for the past five years. I have taught reading intervention and seen many of my students make...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology
- University of Pennsylvania - Masters, Urban Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- ISEE
- +26 subjects
Joshua: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...experience, I have had the opportunity to network with college admissions counselors across the country, and I gladly connect my students to any college admissions departments I am familiar with. Although my tutoring specialty is test prep -- SAT, ACT, PSAT, SHSAT, and GRE -- I particularly love tutoring writing, and creative writing is a hobby of mine. My philosophy is that even when we are preparing for a standardized exam, we should always be...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, French and Francophone Studies
- University of Pennsylvania - Master of Science, Social Policy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- GED
- Advanced Placement
- +92 subjects
Adriane: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...Central Florida. I received my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. I am certified to teach all elementary grades. I have 6 years experience teaching grades Kindergarten through 4th grade. I specialize in Reading Intervention strategies. During my teaching career, I taught all subjects, including testing strategies for standardized tests. I am passionate about teaching my students to become independent, productive citizens. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and taking walks with my dog.
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Writing
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +13 subjects
Serita: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...my job more each day. I started my teaching career at a high school in Philadelphia and now teach sixth grade English and Math at a Quaker school. I have experience working with students ages third to twelfth grade and especially love tutoring writing and math. I currently tutor students at my middle school and have two years of experience tutoring for the SSATs. I have my Masters in Special Education and Secondary Math. I...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Chestnut Hill College - Master of Science, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- TOEFL
- ISEE
- +41 subjects
Alice: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...and Family Studies and Education. I am currently wrapping up my teaching certification program teaching American History in a Philadelphia public school. I have extensive experience teaching and tutoring English, History and essay writing with elementary, middle and high school students. I strongly believe learning is a collaborative, student directed process and I love helping students acquire long-term learning skills. My favorite part of teaching is watching students gain confidence and pride in their work;...
Education & Certification
- Bryn Mawr College - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology/Education/Child & Family Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- ACT
- +40 subjects
Ade: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...analysis. Past positions in biomedical research and administration have also necessitated excellent verbal and oral communication skills, specifically within team settings. In addition, because I have interacted with many types of students for the past several years through tutoring/mentorship, my teaching styles are versatile and adaptable to each and every student. I am truly dedicated to helping my students reach their goals and thus invest much of my time and energy into ensuring my students'...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Biology, African Studies
- University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Medicine
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +48 subjects
Stephanie: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...and think independently. As an instructor, I am dedicated to helping students succeed because I know from my own experiences as a student that, at every level of education, from elementary to graduate school, the support and encouragement of a passionate teacher can turn a diffident or apathetic underachieving student into a classroom star. My favorite subject to tutor is standardized test prep (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.) because such tests cover a finite body of...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelors, Cinema and Media Studies / English Language and Literature
- University of Iowa - Masters, Film Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CLEP
- ASPIRE
- +77 subjects
Jessica: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...reflects my desire to be a life long learner. I believe that you can learn something from everyone you meet and every encounter. Education is truly the key to a quality life and one should never stop searching for knowledge. I truly believe that by spending my time tutoring and teaching children I can both enrich others lives as well as my own. I believe one must share knowledge to gain knowledge and must do...
Education & Certification
- Wilkes University - Bachelor in Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- High School English
- +20 subjects
Daniel: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...in the Philadelphia area. I love the theatre, and it has taught me an enormous amount about interacting with people and the world in which we live. Time and again I have been enlightened to the power of collaborating with my fellow artists, and the amazing, inventive magic this can produce. Similarly, my tutoring sessions are just as much about collaborating. By striving to reach a common goal together, we can overcome any obstacle or...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor in Arts, Anthropology and Theatre
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Advanced Placement
- PSAT
- SAT
- +32 subjects
Jean: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...variety of standardized tests (ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, GED). Besides my years of experience and deep content knowledge, my strength as a tutor stems from an intuitive understanding of how to connect with students and explain content in creative ways. I work very hard to bring that "Aha!" moment to students. I love teaching and being involved in the field of education -- I can't think of anything else I'd rather be doing with my...
Education & Certification
- Hofstra University - Bachelor in Arts, Anthropology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +32 subjects
Victoria: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
I believe in making learning fun! It is important for me to design lessons that are both effective and engaging at the same time. I am fully committed to the success of my students. ... My philosophy of teaching is simple; to enable my students to move from struggling with the subject to a love of learning that accompanies pride in their accomplishments. I believe in life long learning and being the cornerstone to unlocking the potential that each and every one of my students has inside of them.
Education & Certification
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania - Bachelors, Spanish Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Spanish 1
- Test Prep
- +21 subjects
Theresa: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
I've been tutoring and teaching for over 5 years, specializing in English Language Arts. Recently , I managed a tutoring studio where I was able to match tutors with students. I enjoy the rewards that come with helping a student realize their potential. I believe in the personalized learning of every student. In addition to educational pursuits, I enjoy cooking and traveling. ... I believe that students should be supported and guided by their teacher so that they can come to the answer themselves. This approach builds confidence.
Education & Certification
- Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +18 subjects
Mackenzie: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...with a minor in French; my studies primarily focused on international affairs. I am passionate about teaching areas I focused on during my four years in Boston including history, government, and French but also have an established background in writing, literature, and English. I believe it is important to identify a unique approach for every student according to their specific needs because as I have learned, each student has individual strengths and difficulties. In my...
Education & Certification
- Boston College - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- +32 subjects
Laura: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...the sense of accomplishment and success that comes when one finally completes a difficult task or understands a complex idea. I want every student to understand that he or she also has the capacity to overcome the personal and academic challenges he or she faces. Through student teaching, field experiences, and work positions, I have grown in my passion for education and my desire to help students learn. I approach each day with energy and...
Education & Certification
- Cedarville University - Bachelors, Secondary Social Studies Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Homework Support
- High School Geography
- +30 subjects
Stephanie: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
If students remain teachable and avoid shutting down, they will have the extra energy and potential to learn. In addition to the students' attitude, the teacher must be dynamic, allow relearn/retakes and urge students to get outside help. Hearing the same information from a different teacher can make a huge difference in retention.... The more and more I come across chemistry students, the more I see them trying to "rote" memorization. Since it is cumulative, you must remember the information so you can apply it to the next concept. Math is the same way; you must know how to do the problem and why.
Education & Certification
- UNLV - Bachelors, Secondary Education - biological science
- University of Phoenix-Las Vegas Campus - Masters, Educational Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- Science
- Other
- +23 subjects
Robin: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...graduated from Oberlin College with a B.A. in Environmental Studies. Throughout college I studied many subjects, mostly in the natural and social sciences. I'm most experienced in math, English, and writing. I'm an easygoing person and want our tutoring sessions to be as relaxing as they can be. As someone who used to be a stressed-out student, I have plenty of techniques for managing school stress and organization. Can't wait to meet you!... Every student can excel in school when given the right support from their teachers, family, and tutors! As a tutor, I will adjust my teaching style to fit your learning style so we can learn on your terms.
Education & Certification
- Oberlin College - Bachelors, Environmental Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- PSAT
- +22 subjects
Sriram: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...style as much as needed for students to learn. Patience and reasoning come naturally to me, as if I was born with them. This is why math is my strong point. I have received a great deal of extracurricular training on test-taking whether for the SATs or less predictable forms of testing. I have a further 2 years tutoring mostly SAT through Varsity. My students have improved their scores following my tutoring by 200-400 points...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Current Undergrad, Bioinformatics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +57 subjects
Anastasia: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...because it's an area in which I have some expertise, and I'm able to help others achieve their goals with my skills and education. I have a bachelor's in English Literature, and a Master's degree in teaching. I have a passion for critical thinking, literary analysis, argumentation, and the effect of words upon a reader. I look forward to helping you realize your unique abilities in the realm of reading and writing!
Education & Certification
- California State University-San Bernardino - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Marshall University - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- A Level
- HSPT
- SHSAT
- +46 subjects
Donna: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
I am a special education teacher who has been teaching for over 30 years. I currently teach in a high school. I am highly qualified in both Math and English, as well as all elementary subjects. I enjoy working one on one with students and getting to know them on a personal level.
Education & Certification
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Education of Developmentally Delayed Individuals
- Grand Canyon University - Master of Science, Education of Developmentally Delayed Individuals
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- ACT
- +92 subjects
Joseph: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
I'm a sophomore at the University of Chicago. I'm a student-athlete with a great background in math, computer science, and standardized tests. I'm the oldest of 6 kids and have always helped my younger siblings with these subjects. I look forward to potentially tutoring you.
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- SAT Subject Tests
- REGENTS
- +132 subjects