If you or your student is interested in them attending a private independent school, it may be beneficial to sign your student up for a Tampa SSAT class provided by Varsity Tutors.
The SSAT is used by many private and independent schools as a part of their admissions process. The exam assesses students on their reading, verbal, and math skills, all of which are considered important predictors of success in a private or independent school. The purpose of the SSAT is to try to ensure the admissions process into these schools is as equitable as possible.
The SSAT is broken down into three levels, including an Elementary Level test, a Middle Level test, and an Upper Level test. The Elementary Level test is given to students who are in either 3rd or 4th grade who would like to attend a private or independent elementary school. The Middle Level test is designed for students in 5th, 6th, or 7th grades who are interested in attending middle school at a private or independent institution. Finally, the Upper Level test is geared towards students in 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th grades who want to attend high school at an independent or private institution.
The three levels of the test are similar in the sense that none of the tests allow students to use calculators on the Quantitative section. Additionally, each level of the test involves a Writing Sample, which is not graded. While this section doesn't affect the overall score, it is still sent to all of the schools your student applies to so that admissions officials can read it.
The main differences between the tests include the complexity of the topics involved, the number of questions, and the way the tests are scored. On the Elementary Level test, it is advisable for students to guess on questions they're not sure of because they won't be penalized for guessing incorrectly. This is not the best strategy for the Upper and Middle Level tests because your student would be penalized for answering a question incorrectly. They will lose one-quarter of a point for every question they answer incorrectly, while they will not be penalized for leaving a question blank.
What can a Tampa SSAT class help my student review?
All three levels of the SSAT have four sections, including a Writing Sample section, a Quantitative section, a Reading section, and a Verbal section. The Upper and Middle levels both have 167 questions, while the Elementary level only has 89. There are also differences in the topics covered and the complexity of the information involved.
The Writing sample on the Elementary Level test asks students to look at a picture and to write a story about it. This story should include a beginning, middle, and end. This section is designed to measure your student's skills in punctuation, grammar, and organizing a piece of writing.
The Quantitative section on the Elementary Level test contains 30 questions, and your student has 30 minutes to finish it. This section is focused on math-related topics such as measurement, operations, and algebra, among others. In order to have a chance at doing well on this section, your student may want to focus on the concepts of number order, place value, and fractions, to name a few.
The Verbal section of the Elementary level test concerns English and covers the relationship between words and the meaning of words. It may be beneficial for your student to have a firm grasp on science and technology related vocabulary and to be able to understand synonyms and analogies.
Finally, the Reading section contains 28 questions, and your student will have 30 minutes to complete it. This section is focused on reading comprehension and measures how well your student understands how to locate the main idea of a passage and whether they can identify the meaning of words based on context.
The Upper and Middle levels of the test each contain the same number of questions and test students on similar topics. The Quantitative section of the Upper Level test focuses on geometry, algebra, and arithmetic, as does the Middle Level test. But the Middle Level test is more concerned with mean, median, and mode and coordinate geometry while the Upper Level test is focused on word problems and algebraic problems.
The Upper and Middle Levels of the test also have the same number of question on the Reading section, with 40 questions and 40 minutes to complete it. Both levels require students to read through passages, but the Upper Level test is specifically focused on information from social studies and the sciences.
Both the Upper and Middle Levels focus on synonyms and analogies in terms of the Verbal section, while both levels also require students to choose between two prompts and write an essay in the Writing Sample section.
How can a Tampa SSAT course help my student prepare?
There are many ways in which a Tampa SSAT course can help your student prepare. The SSAT course will take place online, which means that you won't have to worry about driving your student to another activity. Your student may already have a busy schedule where you have to drive them to sports or other extracurricular activities. As such, it can be beneficial to have the option for your student to take an SSAT course online from the comfort of your own home.
Their SSAT course will take the form of a regular class. Students will be working with both an instructor and other students. Learning from an SSAT instructor can be helpful in terms of reviewing material that could be on the exam. Whether your student needs more review in English, math, or social sciences, their instructor can help them go over this material.
Working with other students can be useful in terms of holding group discussions and engaging in group activities. Some students don't learn well if they're expected to just sit silently and listen to an instructor. As such, having an opportunity to engage with other students could prove valuable in their preparation process.
How can I find a Tampa SSAT prep course?
Finding a Tampa SSAT prep course involves contacting Varsity Tutors and signing up for a course either over the phone or online. You can sign your student up for either a two-week or four-week course based on their needs.
Jamie: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...school's Honor Society. I quickly grew to love working with other students, particularly in math, helping them to understand challenging material. I live for the "light bulb" moments, when my student's eyes begin to shine as he/she begins to gain confidence and mastery of the subject. In college, I earned my B.A. at Tufts University with a double major in Clinical Psychology and Child Development, and then went on to earn my M.S. at Northeastern...
Education & Certification
- Tufts University - Bachelor in Arts, Clinical Psychology/Child Development
- Northeastern University - Master of Science, Applied Behavior Analysis
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +25 subjects
Kiani: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...have 4 years of tutoring experience in elementary and middle school math and reading. When working with students, I like to incorporate a variety of teaching methods because each student has an individual learning style. I incorporate games and activities as part of the tutoring session. I believe when learning is fun, the student retains more information. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy cooking for my friends. I also love the performing arts.
Education & Certification
- The University of Tampa - Bachelors, International Business
- Nova Southeastern University - Masters, Public Adminstration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- ISEE
- Math
- +18 subjects
Courtney: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...teach in a Middle School, since that has always been my dream job! To me, education is the best way to learn about yourself and the world around you, which is why I love to help students improve themselves and their personal skills through teaching. In the past, I've worked with a variety of students one-on-one, and have experience in school settings as well. While I tutor a variety of subjects, my personal favorite is...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Current Undergrad, Secondary English Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ESL/ELL
- Math
- +26 subjects
Anna: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...the traditional classroom. I believe in the ability of all students to reach their highest potential. I am skilled at assessing student needs through respectful dialogue enabling me to provide guidance to each student individually. I am a life-long learner who encourages free-thinking and non-traditional methods of learning, based on the needs of each student. I am passionate about learning and encourage all I meet to embrace learning whether in a traditional or non-traditional format.
Education & Certification
- University of Nevada-Las Vegas - Bachelors, Anthropology/Gerontology
- University of Phoenix-Phoenix-Hohokam Campus - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Social Sciences
- +28 subjects
Blakely: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...Certificate in Editing from NYU's School of Continuing and Professional Studies. In addition to my courses, I devoted my time in New York to gaining professional experience through internships with a local newspaper and InStyle magazine's online publication. Working side by side with esteemed Editors, Photographers, and Reporters was an invaluable experience that exposed me to the excitement and challenges presented by the fast-paced field of communications. Upon graduation, I joined a boutique tutoring agency...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor in Arts, English and Journalism
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- HSPT
- +26 subjects
Miranda: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...History at University of Central Florida, while focusing on how I plan to teach. Having firsthand felt the impact of interactive teaching, my top priority is creating a personal and enjoyable learning experience for every student. I am most passionate about History and English subjects. These subjects can come off as "repetitive" or "boring", and that is why I am most passionate about helping students have a memorable and fun experience while also learning.
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelor in Arts, Latin American Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- History
- English
- +18 subjects
Erin: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...elementary and middle school teacher, tutor, and school administrator with over 12 years of experience, I have a genuine interest in seeing my students succeed. My desire is to go beyond just helping my students to achieve a certain grade in a class or on a specific test; I want to motivate them to become lifelong learners who seek out answers to their questions. However, I always keep in mind that every student is unique...
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelors, Criminal Justice
- University of Central Florida - Masters, Administration if Criminal Justice
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- ISEE
- Florida EOC Assessment
- +38 subjects
Nicole: Tampa SSAT course instructor
I am a former college economics instructor with over 5 years experience teaching. I hold a master's degree from the University of South Florida. I have taught Principles of Macroeconomics, Principles of Microeconomics, Labor Economics, Public Economics, Basic Economics, and Personal Finance. Additionally, I have served as a TA for Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, and Graduate Econometrics. Economics is my passion and I enjoy sharing it with others.
Education & Certification
- College of St Benedict - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Master of Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASVAB
- ISEE
- GED
- +167 subjects
Sofia: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...an undergraduate student at the University of South Florida majoring in Biology with a medical concentration. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about science and math, especially Organic Chemistry II, Algebra, and Calculus. Regardless of what I may be tutoring, I aim to create a fun and engaging learning environment while catering to each individual's style of learning. I spend my spare time studying for the MCAT, and painting!...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ASVAB
- SAT
- +30 subjects
Ashley-Rose: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...also hold a Master’s of Science (MSc) in Forensic Anthropology from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. My dissertation research focused on finding a way to determine skeletal age at death from the microstructure of the human rib. I plan to attend medical school in the future in the hopes of becoming a forensic pathologist. I have worked both formally and informally as a teacher and tutor since 2010. While at Berry College I served...
Education & Certification
- Berry College - Bachelor of Science, Pre-Med Anthropology, Minors in Biology and Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASPIRE
- SAT Subject Tests
- Advanced Placement
- +47 subjects
Kayla: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...I have my certifications in Elementary Education and Exceptional Student Education. I have also obtained my English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) endorsement. I have knowledge of several research-based interventions to help students achieve academic success. I understand the importance of tailoring tutoring sessions based on individual student needs to help the students have the "tools" to become successful learners in the classroom. I take notes during my sessions to identify strengths and weaknesses that...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Exceptional Student Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- 1st Grade
- 5th Grade Math
- +34 subjects
Cierra : Tampa SSAT course instructor
...research experience. I am passionate about science and teaching it to those that need help. I have experience tutoring all ages from kindergarten to college students. I approach each situation in a personalized manner and have experience with children who have issues focusing and learning disabilities. As far as subjects go, I enjoy tutoring most science to all students but I excel best in general science, biology and physical science for grades k-12. For college...
Education & Certification
- St Petersburg College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Entomology
- Science
- Middle School Science
- +13 subjects
Stephanie: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...I was in High school. My experiences range from small group counseling, mentoring, tutoring middle school students, working with children across the world, teaching in the classroom for students K-5 and also online tutoring students K-12. I will be available to tutor students in General Education K-5, Middle School Math, Exceptional Student Education K-12 and Test Prep. I believe in a structured classroom setting, but also allowing the students to have the freedom to know...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +47 subjects
Christina: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...have six years of undergraduate teaching experience and one semester of teaching high school biology and marine science. English, writing and science are my favorite subjects to tutor. I aim to help my students learn to be independent thinkers and reach their highest academic goals! Some of my hobbies outside of teaching and tutoring including hiking, running, biking, surfing and anything outdoors. Some interesting facts about me are I did my internship at NASA and...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Gerontology
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Doctor of Philosophy, Gerontology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AIMS
- Biology
- AP Research
- +49 subjects
Katelyn: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...back for a Master's degree in Engineering Management next fall. My mother is an elementary school teacher, and I have been tutoring students in her classrooms for over 10 years. She has taught me many different ways to approach a student's needs based on their particular learning style. I also have tutored academics both privately and for my high school, as well as teaching private music lessons. Although I am able to tutor many different...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Industrial Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- PSAT
- ACT
- +30 subjects
Mary: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...about 10 years in English, Math, and Science in the lower and middle grades. I have extensive experience as an educator in teaching reading to high school students, as well as, coaching for tests. My education is in teaching with a bachelors and master degree from Eastern Michigan University and an Ed Specialist from Capella University in curriculum and instruction. I believe all children can learn given the proper environment and nurturing.
Education & Certification
- Eastern Michigan University - Bachelor of Science, Business Education
- Capella University - Unknown, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- HSPT
- ACT
- +31 subjects
Elizabeth : Tampa SSAT course instructor
I am a teacher and a tutor with over 20 years of experience. I have 3 masters' degrees in varying subject areas; education, business, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, I have worked with children of all grade levels; including k-12 and college levels. I enjoy motivating students and helping them reach their fullest potential.
Education & Certification
- Stony Brook University - Bachelor in Arts, Italian
- Brenau - Master in Management, Accounting and Business Management
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Florida EOC Assessment
- +115 subjects
Cheryl: Tampa SSAT course instructor
I passed both the LPN and RN NCLEX exams on the first try and in the minimum amount of questions. As your tutor, I am able to assess where your gaps are and offer solutions. I am passionate about helping you to succeed in nursing subjects. I am able to help learners grasp nursing concepts by using multiple sources of resources and support materials.
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Plattsburgh - Bachelor of Science, Nursing (RN)
- University of Phoenix-Birmingham Campus - Doctor of Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- HESI - Health Education Systems Incorporated
- ISEE
- +19 subjects
Jonathan D.: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...better tomorrow. Dreaming and doing always go hand in hand. Venus, Serena, Michael Jordan and many other athletes and figures chose to rise above their challenges and seek solutions. My goal is to get you to that next level. It will take hard work and focus along with determination. But all things are possible to those who believe they can. I consistently uphold the highest ethical and moral standards, living and working by the motto,...
Education & Certification
- Lee University - Bachelor in Arts, Religious Studies
- Lee University - Master of Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- OLSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +41 subjects
Tiffani: Tampa SSAT course instructor
...focusing on reading comprehension skills as well as writing skills to students in grades 2nd through 6th. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to assist ELL learners within whole group instruction by providing differentiated materials and instruction. This past year, I obtained my Reading Endorsement in order to teach Intensive Reading students. I am also ESOL certified, and currently hold a valid teaching certification through the state of Florida. My experience with online...
Education & Certification
- American InterContinental University-South Florida - Bachelor of Science, Communication, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Writing
- Writing
- Study Skills
- +14 subjects