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Varsity Tutors would love to help you prepare for your upcoming ACT test date with one of our in-depth Portland ACT preparation options. You may have decided to take the ACT if you currently attend a local high school like St. Mary's Academy or Lincoln High School. The ACT is a standardized test that is usually taken by high school students who plan on attending a four-year university after they graduate.
However, it can be difficult to study for the ACT without any guidance. That's where Varsity Tutors in. We can set you up with to work with a private test prep instructor or get you started with a Portland ACT prep course if you'd like help preparing for your upcoming exam. Performing well on the ACT could help you get accepted into the universities that you apply to. A good score on the exam could also earn you more scholarship offers. To learn more about the ACT and how we can help you prepare for it, continue reading.
What's covered in Portland ACT prep from Varsity Tutors?
Your ACT preparation supplement will take you on a step-by-step academic journey through the material that you'll be tested on when taking the ACT. This will give you a chance to refresh your memory on the subjects that you haven't studied in a while and make academic progress where it's needed. The ACT was designed to assess how prepared the students who take it are to continue on with their studies at the collegiate level. To accomplish that goal, the exam is split into four required sections that focus on Math, English, Reading, and Science. The ACT also has an optional Writing section that test-takers can choose whether or not they complete.
The Math section of the ACT covers the math subjects that you would've likely learned about through your completion of the 11th grade. This means that you'll be tested on subjects like pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, among other things. You'll be asked to answer 60 multiple-choice math questions within a 60-minute time limit. This is a great section to sign up for test preparation assistance with if you aren't entirely confident with your mathematics skill set.
The next section of the ACT is based on Reading. You'll be asked to answer 40 multiple-choice questions within a 35-minute time limit. The section will contain a number of writing passages that you'll need to read through and then answer questions about. To perform well on the Reading section, you'll need to be able to identify central themes, make connections from different text passages, and realize the difference between facts and opinions, among other things.
Next, you'll take the English section. This part of the test is challenging because it asks you to answer 75 multiple-choice questions within a 45-minute time limit. That means you'll need to be able to work quickly to ensure that you don't run out of time on the day of your exam. You'll be asked to show your knowledge of things like grammar, correct punctuation, and other conventions of English language usage.
The last required section of the ACT covers Science. It focuses on subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science, among others. To do well on the ACT's Science section, you'll need to be able to manipulate and understand the meaning of data and problem-solve using your scientific knowledge and the scientific method. This is another excellent section to sign up for test preparation assistance with.
Finally, if you decide to do it, you may also take the ACT's Writing section. This part of the exam is a little different in that you won't answer any multiple-choice questions on it. Instead, you'll respond to a prompt that you're given with an essay. You'll have 40 minutes to complete your essay and will be graded based on the quality of your writing and the strengths of the arguments you make in your paper.
How can Portland ACT prep help you study for your upcoming exam?
When deciding which test prep option you want to pursue, you can choose between taking a course or working with a private instructor. If you take a course, you'll learn from an experienced educator who will lead you and a small group of peers through a series of live lessons. Your Portland ACT prep class will provide all of the benefits of the traditional classroom learning experience in a more convenient online setting. You can also work with your educator in a one-on-one setting if you're having a hard time understanding one of the topics that they go over. This ensures that you can easily get the help you need to keep up with your classmates if you ever feel like you're starting to fall behind. There are a variety of course options to choose from so you can easily find one that fits your scheduling needs as well.
Or, you may prefer to work with a Portland ACT tutor. This may be the right choice for you if you're someone who has previously excelled when working directly with your instructor. You and your educator can meet for a series of one-on-one study sessions that focus on your specific academic needs. You can work through these lessons at your own pace and can stop to ask for additional guidance whenever you need it. When you reach out to us to find a tutor, we'll happily do everything we can to match you with an educator who can work around your schedule. This flexibility makes it easy to sign up to work with a private tutor if you think that you would benefit from it.
How can I get started with Portland ACT preparation assistance?
Do you think that you would benefit from one of these Portland ACT prep offerings? If so, then the best way to get started is by reaching out to Varsity Tutors directly. We can help you pick the best learning option for your unique academic needs and then can get you started with it quickly. We hope to hear from you soon and look forward to helping you pursue your test goals.

Marissa: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...work, but also empower them to independently produce better results in the future. I have experience tutoring students in different age groups, from elementary school to graduate school. As a tutor at my college's writing center, I assisted in leading a workshop discussing best strategies for ESL tutoring. Having studied both Spanish and Japanese, I understand the difficulties of learning a new language and am excited to help students master English writing, speaking, and grammar.
Education & Certification
- George Washington University - Bachelors, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- 11th Grade Reading
- 9th Grade Writing
- ACT Reading
- +31 subjects

Tessa: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...by lifting the curtain on the intricacies of the subject matter. I believe that learning is, and ought to be, for its own sake. Math and philosophy, and their nuanced interactions, are my great passions. I've run more 5ks and 10ks than I can count, but the validation of completing a long race is nothing like the satisfying moment of writing "Q.E.D." on a difficult proof. I'm a scholar of the Western canon, greatly influenced...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Mathematics and History
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- College Essays
- College Math
- Pre-Calculus
- +106 subjects

Helen: Portland ACT test prep instructor
Hi, my name's Helen Liu! I'm currently studying at Stanford University, majoring in either Biology or Science, Technology, and Society. I love helping others and have been a peer tutor for over four years as well as a TA for two math classes. I promise I will work hard with you to achieve your desired score. I'd love to tutor you, so please feel free to contact me! ... Working with students to know why an answer is correct is much better than mindless practice. All students have the ability to understand, but it's up to the teacher to find the method that makes sense.
Education & Certification
- Stanford University - Current Undergrad, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Biology
- Science
- Algebra
- +25 subjects

Michelle: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...from Boston University in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Marine Biology. As a graduate student, I worked in a tissue engineering lab with the goal of advancing knowledge of current cell and tissue-based clinical therapies! I have a strong passion for learning about and teaching anything math or science related. These subjects are incredibly important in our everyday lives, and I can only hope to extend my passion and excitement to my students. I...
Education & Certification
- Boston University - Bachelors, Biomedical Engineering
- Tulane University of Louisiana - Masters, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Technology and Computer Science
- Elementary School Science
- ACT Math
- +26 subjects

Lauren: Portland ACT test prep instructor
I am passionate about teaching; my mother said my brother was able to skip kindergarten because I taught him everything I was learning at school! I am a graduate of the University of Connecticut, where I earned a bachelor's degree in English; I also am a 15-year homeschooling "veteran." Most recently, I have worked in a private school teaching grammar, pre-algebra, and physical science. My hobbies include piano, hiking, and singing. ... I make sure they have a solid phonics foundation. Then, I make sure they ask themselves questions about the text, as they are reading. I do a follow-up quiz.
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, English
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- CogAT
- SAT Reading
- AP Spanish Language & Culture
- +45 subjects

Max: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...their academic goals as they work their way towards college. I volunteer in New Haven as a math teacher and coach at a public middle school (my team of 7th graders just won the 2016 New Haven regional championship!), and I've been tutoring middle and high school students for over 7 years. On top of all of that, I'm an aspiring professional in the business world - this past summer I worked at an internship...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT Subject Test in Biology E/M
- Social Studies
- SSAT
- +104 subjects

Kimberly: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...the University of Connecticut, I work as both a Research and Teacher's Assistant for UConn's Mathematics Department. I obtained both my Bachelor's and Master's of Arts degree from Rhode Island College and have worked as a Math Tutor and Teacher's Assistant throughout my time at RIC. Intellectually, I believe knowledge is fluid and requires practice to perfect. I enjoy showing my peers/students different ways of examining problems in order to achieve a well-rounded understanding of...
Education & Certification
- Rhode Island College - Current Undergrad, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- Pre-Calculus
- Business Analytics
- +31 subjects

Cody: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...a classroom teacher, as substitute teacher, a special education paraprofessional and as a theatre teaching artist. I'm also a playwright and work for a nonprofit arts center in downtown Hartford. I'm passionate about education, and I love the experience of one-on-one teaching. It's my way of giving back to the incredible teachers that shaped my childhood and offered me the doors to the professional experiences I've been fortunate enough to have. Let's learn!... I believe that great learning happens when a student feels supported and empowered. Creating a safe space to learn and creating a space that's supportive of a student's learning style and strengths make great learning a reality. Good teaching begins with the student -- knowing where they are, and teaching to that place.
Education & Certification
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette - Bachelors, Theatre - Arts Administration
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- PSAT Writing Skills
- 10th Grade Reading
- Adult Literacy
- +83 subjects

Elizabeth: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...events happened and how those events shaped the future. In general I enjoy understanding how something works at the basic level because I think it gives me a better understanding of things further down the line; whether that be understanding how a cell functions in an organism or how we pronounce certain letters to form a word. I think that the key to successful learning is making whatever subject you are studying relevant to you,...
Education & Certification
- Grand Valley State University - Bachelor of Science, Cell and Molecular Biology
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Master of Science, Infectious Disease and Microbiology
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- 11th Grade Reading
- Special Education
- 6th Grade Reading
- +129 subjects

Jill: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...an urban high school, I've worked with students ranging from a first-grade reading level to a college-level. My goal is always to bring all of these students to the same level so that they can have the same opportunity for success. Any student can learn when you give them a chance. My inclination for intense differentiation allows me to work with students of any ability and push them toward writing and reading fluency.
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Nonfiction English Writing, Communication and Rhetoric
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT Reading
- ACT Writing
- College Essays
- +13 subjects

Jonathan: Portland ACT test prep instructor
I am a graduate of Fordham University, with a double major BA in Economics and French Language and Literature. I have been tutoring students in English, French, Math, and standardized test prep for over six years, and I especially love teaching in Economics, History, and Literature. My teaching style centers on understanding each student's unique way of learning, and adapting my approach to best fit their needs.
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- ACT Science
- High School Level American History
- French 3
- +70 subjects

Katie : Portland ACT test prep instructor
I graduated from the University of Connecticut with degrees in both Accounting and English. I worked as an accountant for a year before I went back to school to earn my Masters in Education. I currently teach high school English and Theater. As a tutor, I use modeling and mini-lessons to help my students reach their potential.
Education & Certification
- University of Connecticut - Bachelors, English and Accounting
- University of Connecticut - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- ACT English
- SAT Reading
- Pre-Algebra
- +18 subjects

Noah: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...at Yale University majoring in Ethnicity, Race, and Migration. I have lots of experience in the humanities, and I'm most passionate about reading and writing. I love to appreciate a text and dig into the true meaning of language. I also have ample experience working with young people with autism and other special needs. I believe all students deserve and are capable of success, and defining success together is the most important part.
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, Ethnic Studies, General
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- High School Writing
- SAT Subject Test in Literature
- ISEE-Middle Level Quantitative Reasoning
- +67 subjects

Ryan: Portland ACT test prep instructor
I am a true New England boy, and am an alumnus of Wesleyan, Yale and Uconn Law School. I was a double major in Political Science and Psychology and enjoy the intersection of the two. I have taught for over twenty years most recently as a professor of Law and Criminology at UB. I also lived in Hong Kong and taught test prep to some of the world's most aspirational students.
Education & Certification
- Wesleyan University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- University of Connecticut - Doctor of Laws, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- ISEE-Lower Level Writing
- Study Skills
- ISEE- Upper Level
- +50 subjects

Jessica: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...K-12. I love working with students of all ages in order to highlight their potential and strengthen any areas of concern. My teaching experience includes teaching for over nine years at the high school level, I have taught all levels of high school English including AP Language and Composition, 9th grade Honors, 9th grade College Prep and remedial English, as well as test prep. My tutoring experience includes tutoring students of all levels, including SAT...
Education & Certification
- Fairfield - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Sacred Heart - Master of Arts Teaching, Education/Reading
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- 11th Grade Reading
- 1st Grade Reading
- Reading
- +61 subjects

Ethan: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...multiple levels of mathematics at the university level. I have experience in helping students keep up with their studies and well as designing plans to help students advance through material at an accelerated pace. My academic interests are in resource economics though I have training in mathematics, the natural sciences, and public policy. Through my interests in music, teaching, and research the most valuable skill I have learned is the ability to communicate material in...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Bachelor in Arts, Environmental Science and Public Policy
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Public Speaking
- Summer
- AP Biology
- +71 subjects

Matthew: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...(elementary, middle-school, pre-algebra, algebra 1, algebra 2, geometry, and introductory trigonometry and precalculus) - German (introductory and intermediate) - Test prep (including SAT, ACT, and GRE) - Biology (high-school and introductory, college-level) - Chemistry (high-school and introductory, college-level inorganic) I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, along with minors in Chemistry, German Language and Literature, and Environmental Studies. Currently, I am studying toward a Master of Information degree with specialization in Library and...
Education & Certification
- Brandeis University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Current Grad Student, Library and Information Science
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT Math
- ACT Math
- German 3
- +63 subjects

Christina: Portland ACT test prep instructor
I am a current MBA student at the Yale School of Management who will also be attending UCLA School of Law post-MBA. I've also enjoyed taking standardized tests and "cracking" their code; so I love getting to continue to work on this with my students.
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelors, Biology, General
- Yale School of Management - Masters in Business Administration, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- AP Chinese
- SAT Subject Test in Mathematics Level 1
- Music
- +58 subjects

Minkang: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...I would volunteer on the weekends to teach wide age range of students with math specifically geometry, pre-algebra, algebra and SAT/ACT math. I worked as a teacher assistant for high school students as well as college students in Chemistry because I have done many years of research in Chemistry and Organic Cheistry. I enjoyed tutoring students who are passionate about learning and are eager to improve their academic path because seeing them improve and be...
Education & Certification
- Carnegie Mellon University - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- AP Chemistry
- +22 subjects

Kamsi: Portland ACT test prep instructor
...assisted in teaching children ages 7-10 about different topics in science, including forensics and astronomy. I conducted many of the daily experiments and worked to help them understand these topics. Additionally, during my junior and senior years of high school, I served as a facilitator in my school's Diversity Day programs (the student one and the faculty one). I helped to organize the entire day's events and facilitated conversations on issues of diversity within out...
Education & Certification
- Boston University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- College Chemistry
- College Biology
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- +30 subjects