If you're interested in taking the most convenient Salt Lake City SSAT prep course available, Varsity Tutors has an option worthy of your immediate consideration. The SSAT is a high-stakes test that private and independent schools use as an objective data point when comparing applicants from a range of backgrounds. It's taken by students in grades 3-11 in preparation for entering a new school for the next school year. For example, a ninth-grader who takes the test will be planning to enroll in a new high school for their sophomore year.
It wouldn't make any sense to give students in grade 3 and grade 11 the same exam, so the SSAT is split into three different "Levels": Elementary (grades 3 and 4), Middle (grades 5-7), and Upper (grades 8-11). No matter which of these you or your student is preparing for, Varsity Tutors can provide a connection to a Salt Lake City SSAT class that covers all of the academic content and test-taking tips you'll need to pursue your full academic potential. Reach out today for more information on how we might be able to help you.
What academic content areas are covered in a Salt Lake City SSAT course?
The SSAT measures a student's Quantitative, Reading, Verbal, and Writing skills in order to determine whether they are ready to take on a rigorous private school curriculum. Each of those content areas is a section on the exam, though the Writing section is unscored. It is still used as a student's writing sample on their application, so all students are encouraged to put their best effort into their writing. There is also an unscored Experimental section placed at the conclusion of the test, though it isn't important to study for.
Here is a closer look at the content and formatting of each section of the SSAT.
Quantitative (or Math at the Elementary Level)
This section covers grade-appropriate mathematical concepts. Elementary school students answer questions regarding addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, shapes, and fractions, while older students contend with more advanced concepts such as probability, data analysis, geometry, and algebra. Calculators are not allowed on any level of the SSAT. The Elementary Level SSAT Math section is comprised of 30 multiple-choice questions over half an hour. The Quantitative section on the Middle and Upper Level exams is divided into two 30-minute sections for a total of 50 questions in one hour.
Reading
This section measures a test-taker's reading comprehension abilities, including the ability to identify the main idea of a passage and use context to define any unfamiliar terminology. Some items also ask students to identify whether a phrase is used literally or figuratively. Older students are also asked to analyze arguments and draw inferences based on what they've read, in addition to working with more difficult passages. Children at the Elementary Level have 30 minutes to respond to 28 multiple-choice items, while students taking the Middle and Upper Level tests have 40 multiple-choice questions to answer in 40 minutes.
Verbal
This section assesses a student's grade-appropriate vocabulary skills through a series of multiple-choice questions regarding analogies and synonyms. It's virtually impossible to memorize every word that might appear on the test, so students may want to look into prefixes, suffixes, and word roots to make it easier to piece together an unfamiliar term's definition. The Elementary Level SSAT Verbal section contains 30 questions over a 20-minute testing session, while the other two exams allow half an hour for 60 items.
Writing
The SSAT Writing portion assesses a student's written communication skills, including clarity of expression, command of English language mechanics, organization, and syntactic diversity. The Elementary Level SSAT provides students with a picture prompt and 15 minutes to compose an original story featuring a beginning, middle, and end. The Middle Level SSAT gives test-takers a choice of two creative writing prompts and 25 minutes. Finally, the Upper Level SSAT allows students to choose from traditional essay and creative writing prompts over 25 minutes.
Why should I enroll my student in a Salt Lake City SSAT course?
Every Salt Lake City SSAT class is taught by a knowledgeable teacher who understands how to share information with students. Your student's instructor may use visual aids to make Quantitative concepts easier to follow or administer practice tests to give students the self-confidence that comes from knowing what to expect on the exam. They can also share tips specific to the level of the SSAT a student is preparing for. For instance, there is no penalty for guessing on the Elementary Level exam, but there is on the Middle and Upper Level SSAT. A student's test-taking strategy must be adjusted accordingly.
Each Salt Lake City SSAT class also takes place online. That's right: you don't need to worry about driving your student anywhere. Better yet, the platform allows students to interact with both their instructor and their peers in real time to enhance the study experience. You might be leery of allowing other students into your student's study sessions, but it can actually help to create a more productive learning environment. For instance, reviewing how other students might approach a Writing topic can generate great ideas that no individual could have thought of on their own.
Sharing a virtual classroom also allows students to share the cost of instruction, making it more affordable than you might expect. If you feel as though your student could use individualized instruction on a given topic, every class teacher is also available for extra time outside of normal class hours.
We also try to make every class as accessible as possible. For instance, there are both two-week and four-week options to make it easier to find a fit for nearly any schedule. Similarly, we start new classes every week so that it's always a great time for a student to start working toward their academic goals.
Can I sign up for a Salt Lake City SSAT course today?
Contact Varsity Tutors today to enroll in a Salt Lake City SSAT course that suits your needs. You'll be glad you did!
Mary: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...their interests. I LOVE teaching grammar, with simple, straightforward explanations. I use observation and examples from media. We will also practice in conversation. My philosophy is make mistakes and keep it positive. Choose me if you want a teacher who is real, relaxed, and encouraging. Hola! Mi nombre es Abril. Yo enseo espaol e ingles. He he estado enseando los dos idiomas desde el ao 2007, a todas edades uno-a-uno y en grupos. Mi estilo...
Education & Certification
- Utah State University - Bachelor in Arts, Communications and Journalism
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- GED
- College English
- +58 subjects
Brian: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...high school, I had to change in mindset of what it even means to BE a student. Standardized tests, subjects that I just didn't get, and all these other educational obligations had me perplexed. I was lucky enough to acquire a great tutor of my own who helped navigate through my studies. Test-taking strategies and deeper comprehension of certain topics was exactly what I needed to get through my classes and tests. Along with a...
Education & Certification
- University of Utah - Current Undergrad, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- ISEE- Middle Level
- +15 subjects
Lowell: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...I graduated BYU with a bachelor's in Social Studies Teaching and a minor in Spanish Teaching. I later graduated with a second bachelor's degree in Anthropology. Recently I graduated with a master's in Instructional Design. I have taught high school Spanish and adult ESL. I have also substituted. Currently, I teach an adult ESL class at night. I enjoy the act of teaching, and am passionate about the subjects that I have taught. I believe...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Education, Social Science Teacher Education
- Western Governors University - Masters in Education, Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +71 subjects
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SHSAT
- REGENTS
- +62 subjects
Yvan: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
I'm patient, personable, and have an incredible gift for explaining things in a way that makes sense. I majored in Math Education (with a minor in Computer Science), and I have more than eight years of experience teaching math and other STEM subjects.
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- SAT
- ACT
- +155 subjects
Tina: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
I have taught Kindergarten and 1st Grade for 15 years. I LOVE watching children's faces as I help them figure out and understand new concepts. Watching children learn and gain confidence never gets old! I have a Master of Arts in Teaching from Western Governor's University. I am certified to teach in Early Childhood Education (K-3) as well as Elementary Education (1-8).
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Associate in Science, Management Information Systems
- Western Governors University - Master of Arts, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- College Computer Science
- Kindergarten Readiness
- High School English
- +44 subjects
Jacqueline: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...Exam prep, GRE prep, I graduated, in 2012, from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor's degree in Health Education. I was also accepted into the Master's of Public Health Program at the University of Utah. In addition to private tutoring, I am currently working as a Program Manager for an after-school site where I plan and carry out lessons for art, STEM, literacy, math, recreation, and Social-Emotional Learning. I also provide daily homework help to...
Education & Certification
- Utah Valley University - Bachelor of Science, Public Health Education
- University of Utah - Master in Public Health, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- ACT
- CAHSEE
- +172 subjects
Phoebe: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...I received my Masters of Arts in Teaching from Mills College. Previously, I have worked as a AmeriCorps volunteer in a middle school in East Oakland. During that time I worked extensively with a group of 10 sixth graders to raise their reading, math, and organizational skills. Currently I teach fourth grade, which I love! In my experience working with students, I have always enjoyed working on reading skills and creating fun ways to learn...
Education & Certification
- Bates College - Bachelor in Arts, Religious Studies
- Mills College - Master of Arts Teaching, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Summer
- ISEE- Primary
- +39 subjects
Melinda: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
I have been teaching for over 20 years. I have three children of my own and three grand children. My oldest daughter is dyslexic. I have spent many years learning different ways to teach students, so that they can be successful. My favorite subjects to teach are phonics and math. I am excited to get to work with individual students and help them to be successful in learning.
Education & Certification
- Westminster College - Bachelor in Arts, Early Childhood Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER
- English
- Math
- +28 subjects
Aaron: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...have students with no training in interpersonal relations or management. The goal of those initial lectures will then acquaint students with a practical working knowledge of management, human relationships, and leadership principles. This approach is rarely met with resistance, often leading students to appreciate their chosen academic career path and creating a decision to further pursue degrees in business and accounting. However, I find the most success when I find students use the problem-solving skill-sets...
Education & Certification
- ITT Technical Institute-Indianapolis - Bachelor of Science, Network and System Administration
- University of Phoenix-Online Campus - Doctor of Business Adminstration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT 8-Week Prep Class
- GRE 5-Week Prep Class
- ACCUPLACER
- +411 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- GED
- +67 subjects
Jeffrey: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...one-on-one communication with peers and sailors as well as my five children, I can help you or your child succeed. A Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, and a Math Minor help qualify me for tutoring in many subjects. My individualized tutoring methods also raised my step-son's Physics grade from a C to an A in one semester. I specialize in mathematics (basic arithmetic through calculus) but can help in many other subjects. Learning should be fun,...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering
- City University of Seattle - Master of Science, Project Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- SAT
- GCSE
- +336 subjects
Education & Certification
- Utah State University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- University of Utah - Masters in Education, Social Science Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- HSPT
- CLEP
- +153 subjects
Katelyn: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...Utah (where I am currently living while I study at Brigham Young University) I have tutored elementary, middle, and high school students in all levels of math. I have worked both privately as well as at a tutoring center in California. I have also taught/tutored violin lessons and taught English lessons as part of my 18-month volunteer missionary work in Spain. In my spare time I love spending time with my family (especially my three...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- +22 subjects
Samantha: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...particularly in remedial English and ESL classes as an in-class peer tutor. I also love to tutor for the ACT and want to help as many students as possible realize their biggest dreams within the world of academia (and encourage their other dreams outside of it!). I enjoy tutoring because I love to help students build confidence in school, and help them learn how to enjoy learning. There are so many students that are discouraged...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Current Undergrad Student, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- REGENTS
- GATE/ TAG
- +91 subjects
Skyler: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...apply them in many capacities in my jobs at an oil refinery, an iodine plant, and a copper mine. My teaching experience covers all ages. I started an in-home summer education program for family friends when I was 15. I taught people about my beliefs for two years as a missionary. I coached a middle school Ultimate Frisbee team last Fall, and I am currently a teaching assistant for a junior level engineering course. My...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University - Bachelor of Engineering, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +67 subjects
Emily: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
I'm passionate about helping others to attain the best scores they can, and ensuring that they feel proud of the effort they put in and the results they receive. It's important to me to work with people individually to understand their specific needs and how I can best help them to succeed.
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Idaho - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CogAT
- AIMS
- +24 subjects
Max: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...group. Apart from singing, I'm is passionate about education, particularly in helping high school students achieve 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...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- +104 subjects
Rebecca: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...passionate about tutoring because I want everyone to be able to perform academically at their highest possible level. I also think it is important that learning is not just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT test preparation, math, and psychology. My approach to tutoring is to...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +53 subjects
Vivek: Salt Lake City SSAT course instructor
...College. I am a biology major and neuroscience minor. Science has been my passion from a young age. I like tutoring because I sincerely enjoy helping others and being able to impart my knowledge and experience. Along with being strong in my curricular classes, I have experience helping and tutoring younger students in various subjects and test prep. As a patient and encouraging teacher, I am adept at helping others reach their educational goals.... My teaching philosophy is "work hard, play hard." It may sound childish, but I believe the brain requires balance in everything, including activities. With a strong work ethic, along with support and freedom, the tutor and student will go far.
Education & Certification
- Austin College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- TOEFL
- SAT
- +66 subjects