Whether you are trying to secure a better education for yourself or the student in your life, Varsity Tutors can set you up with Phoenix SSAT prep that suits your needs. The SSAT is a standardized exam taken by students in grades 3-11 interested in enrolling in a private or independent school for the next school year. Students in grades 3-4 take the Elementary Level SSAT, grades 5-7 take the Middle Level SSAT, and grades 8-11 take the Upper Level SSAT. Standardized testing scores are only one part of an admissions decision, but it is important for a student to put their all into their test prep.
We can help with that. If you choose to take a Phoenix SSAT prep course, you or your student will study on a convenient live virtual platform in a structured learning environment. Alternatively, we can find you a private Phoenix SSAT tutor to provide individualized attention in your quest to work toward your academic goals. Either way, you'll never want to study on your own again.
What topics are generally covered during Phoenix SSAT prep?
The SSAT assesses the Quantitative, Reading, Verbal, and Writing skills of test-takers to see if they are prepared for a rigorous independent school curriculum. There is also an unscored Experimental section toward the end of the test, but there is no need to devote any valuable prep time to it. The Writing section is not scored either, but still "counts" as it is sent to every school you're applying to as a writing sample. Here is some more info about each section of the exam:
Quantitative
The SSAT's Quantitative section consists of 30 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes at the Elementary Level and 50 questions over one hour (subdivided into two sections of 25 questions each) at the Middle and Upper levels. It assesses grade-appropriate mathematical skills, ranging from the four basic operations on the Elementary test to data analysis, coordinate geometry, and algebra on the Upper Level exam. You are not permitted to use a calculator on any level of the SSAT.
Reading
The SSAT's Reading section consists of 28 multiple-choice items over half an hour on the Elementary Level exam and 40 questions in 40 minutes on the other two. This is a basic reading comprehension test, and students at all levels are asked to identify the main idea and distinguish between literal and non-literal language. Older students are asked to evaluate written arguments and draw inferences while younger students concentrate on meaning. Naturally, older students also have more challenging texts to work with.
Verbal
The SSAT's Verbal section contains 30 multiple-choice questions over 20 minutes on the Elementary Level exam and 60 over 30 minutes for older students. The Elementary Level exam includes questions on synonyms, analogies, and vocabulary, while the other two tests feature an even split between synonyms and analogies. Older students are given more advanced words to work with, so a knowledge of Greek and Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes may prove beneficial.
Writing
The SSAT's Writing section measures a student's written communication and organization abilities. At the Elementary Level, children have 15 minutes to write a short story about a picture prompt that features a beginning, a middle, and an end. Middle Level test-takers may choose between two creative writing prompts and have 25 minutes to work. On the Upper Level SSAT, students have their choice of a creative writing prompt or a more traditional essay to complete in the same 25 minutes allotted on the Middle-Level exam.
What are some of the advantages offered by each of the Phoenix SSAT preparation options available to me?
If you enroll yourself or your student in a Phoenix SSAT prep class, you'll study with a knowledgeable teacher and a handful of other students preparing for the same test. Your regular sessions will delve into not only the academic knowledge you need on test day, but also test-taking strategies you can use if you get stuck. For instance, there is no penalty for guessing on the Elementary Level SSAT, so children should be encouraged to try to answer every question. However, older students are penalized for every answer they get wrong, meaning a blank answer box may be correct choice in some circumstances.
Working with other students may also prove beneficial. For example, looking over another student's essay outline can help your student approach a problem in a completely different way, making their writing skills stronger. Since students are free to interact with each other as well as their teacher, they can also explain concepts to one another while the instructor is working with somebody else. Since teaching something is one of the best ways to further your own understanding of it, this can prove advantageous for both parties. Studying in a group also allows multiple students to split the cost of the class, making test prep accessible for more people.
While every class instructor is available for private study time upon request, some students may need more individualized attention. A private tutor can design study sessions around their pupil's unique needs. There is no set curriculum associated with private instruction, allowing a student to study at their own pace. For example, if they are much stronger in mathematics than reading, sessions can concentrate on active reading techniques to build their self-confidence heading into the exam.
Varsity Tutors also tries to make both services as convenient as possible. For instance, we offer two and four-week courses to make it easier to find one for your schedule. New courses also start every week so that you can join a fresh class as soon as you're ready. Similarly, our Live Learning Platform allows private tutoring sessions to take place anywhere with a stable internet connection so you don't have to worry about driving anywhere. You are also in complete control over when private study sessions take place for maximal convenience.
Can I sign up for Phoenix SSAT prep today?
Use the information provided below to contact Varsity Tutors and talk over your Phoenix SSAT prep options with a knowledgeable educational consultant. You'll be glad you did!
Cody: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...Psychology and a minor in Spanish. I am committed to helping students to receive better grades and challenging the student to think critically. I am a very passionate tutor and will go every extra mile if it will help the student to understand a subject more effectively. I am a very fun tutor that enjoys challenging the student to do their best while integrating material in creative ways to make subjects more interesting.
Education & Certification
- University of Arizona - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +70 subjects
Sharlene : Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...year and the summer. I love working with children. It is exciting to me when a child gets something he/she did not understand before. I like to build a relationship with each student and find out what type of learner he/she is and use methods which will help a child succeed. I believe that a student is not going to be motivated unless he or she is connected with the material. I try to find...
Education & Certification
- Ball State University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- College English
- +10 subjects
Kayla: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...4 years. I love school, but more importantly I love learning and helping others cultivate that lifelong love. I have experience tutoring students from K-College level in Math, Reading, & Writing. I am particularly interested in helping K-12 students discover their own potential in Math and Reading, and succeed on standardized tests. I also have unique experience in the professional world working as a Business Planning Manager for a Fortune 200 company in their sales...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Business Marketing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- GED
- +51 subjects
Lindsay: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
I am a passionate educator with a love of learning and teaching! I have three years of teaching experience (grades 1-5) at a technology school. I understand that each individual student learns differently and I have ample experience finding resources and instructional methods to match the needs of each learner. I hold all students to the highest expectations and believe that all children are capable of success.... My philosophy is centered around the core concept of teaching children how to be problem solvers. They need to know how to approach and think about any given problem. It is okay to make mistakes, as they are learning opportunities. Persistence and confidence in oneself as a learner are the key skills to ensure success in life.
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- MAP
- PARCC
- ISEE
- +35 subjects
Christopher: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...a deeper level when they are the ones to arrive at the answer themselves rather than being spoonfed the answer. When I am not working or tutoring, I enjoy spending time with my family. I have a wonderful wife and two lovely young daughters. When free time allows, I like to play guitar, play tennis or go cycling. I also enjoy hiking, reading, watching sports, and all things Apple. I believe you will find working...
Education & Certification
- University of Arizona - Bachelors, Communications
- Northern Arizona University - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- High School English
- SSAT- Middle Level
- +14 subjects
Julie: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...like to swim, watch movies and go to baseball games. While I was completing my undergraduate degree, I did a 100 hour internship. This internship allowed me to work with children, assisting speech therapy sessions, in the school setting. This was a great experience and really made me realize how much I love working with people, especially children. I was also lucky enough to have the opportunity to work with special education children as well....
Education & Certification
- Northern Arizona University - Bachelor of Science, Speech Sciences and Technology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CAHSEE
- ASVAB
- ISEE
- +32 subjects
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +35 subjects
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor of Engineering, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- +37 subjects
Savannah: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...students all varying in age. In addition to my education, I've tutored many students and worked in a one-on-one setting to help improve the student's necessary skills. Teaching has been a passion of mine for a while now and I would cherish the opportunity to work with you to help you master your weaknesses. I am extremely excited to work with Varsity Tutors and apply my knowledge to help all students reach their full potential....
Education & Certification
- Florida State University - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- FCAT 2.0
- +93 subjects
Jamila: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
I help learners harness the flame of knowledge! We'll use areas of strength to shape areas of growth. And we'll work smart, so we don't have to overwork. No recreating the wheel allowed, I use resources available locally and online (and apps!)... Work smart, not hard. Finish with a sense of accomplishment. Celebrate the small wins. Laugh often.... In a first session we'll speak about your goals and your experiences with the target subject. We'll also do a pretest and find which ways you learn best. We will also find a good time for future sessions.
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelors, East Asian Languages and Cultures with Educator's License
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- GED
- ACT
- +60 subjects
Rachel: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...2 teenagers and 2 cats at home. I believe everyone can learn, it is just the finding the right strategy. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and two master's degrees; one in Elementary Education and one in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on ELL. I also have my gifted endorsement. I want to give students the opportunity and the skills to excel. I love math and science! I want to show you the...
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Binghamton - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- American River College - Masters in Education, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- GATE/ TAG
- SCAT Exam
- +17 subjects
Mariam: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
Graduated RN from an accredited Nursing school, having hands-on experience in the field working with geriatric group. Have a passion to teach nursing classes and pre-licensure classes such Anatomy and Physiology. Also, teaching nursing core classes such Pharmacology for nurses, dosage calculations, Med-surg 1,2,and 3, pediatrics and OB/GYN for nurses. willing to take one on one, small or large groups of students!
Education & Certification
- Herzing University-Winter Park - Bachelor of Science, Nursing (RN)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- TEAS
- +20 subjects
Harold: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...highlights of this career was overseeing the coordination and installation of an atomic clock in Oakland, California. As a former engineer, I had to develop the habits of organized, sequential thinking and I think that these habits greatly influenced me in my second career. As a teacher, I have taught grades 3 through 9. During my career I was repeatedly nominated by students as Site Teacher of the Year. In 2008, I was recognized as...
Education & Certification
- University of Redlands - Bachelor of Science, Information Systems
- Masters in Educations - Master of Science, Instructional Technology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- GED
- ISEE
- +30 subjects
Samuel: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...I strongly support the importance of education because of its ability to empower and improve people's lives. I have made it a priority of mine to tutor in my community as it allows me the opportunity to give back to the students of Phoenix. Given my affinity for problem solving, mathematics teaching, character development and building personal relationships, I am a great candidate to help you progress your learning and advance your thinking.
Education & Certification
- Teachers College - Columbia (NY) - Master of Arts, Secondary Mathematics Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Elementary Math
- +42 subjects
Kimberly: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...of Arizona for grades K-8 and a Structured English Immersion Endorsement. I have spent the last 7 years teaching and performing administrative duties as an assistant principal of a K-6 school. I am currently a stay at home mom who enjoys using my education and skills to help students through tutoring sessions. I appreciate the opportunity to help each and every student and I thank you for entrusting me with such an important task.... I believe that every student has the capacity to learn and that it is our job as educators to find the best way in order to teach. All students learn best in different ways, and I look forward to working with each person to find how they best learn.
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- High School English
- +16 subjects
Kristen: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...a very dedicated and passionate person with an outgoing personality, who believes learning should be a fun and enriching experience. I treat each student as if they were my son or daughter, making sure they are in a comfortable and safe learning environment. I love to think outside the box when it comes to planning lessons, applying student interests and hobbies when possible. This act gives each lesson my personal touch. I believe communication is...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Phoenix-Hohokam Campus - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +42 subjects
Kathryn: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
I have taught pre-algebra several years in the public-school setting and have experience with grades 5 through 9. As the lead math teacher for 8th grade at my school site, I was often invited to develop our district assessments as well as curriculum development. In 2021 I completed my Masters in Secondary STEM education and am currently a law student in Ohio.
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT 8-Week Prep Class
- HSPT
- +40 subjects
Lisa: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
I have a Master's degree in Elementary Education, and I have experience teaching second and fourth grades as well as teaching English to children and adults. In my free time, I enjoy reading, biking and watching movies. ... A great way to help students stay motivated is to create lessons that interest the student. For example, if they like playing hockey, going to the movies, or Minecraft, then I would create lessons with those topics.... There are several ways to help struggling students. Using scaffolding, differentiated instruction, graphic organizers, and mnemonics, as well as slowing down, or using props and pictures.
Education & Certification
- Northern Arizona University - Bachelors, Public Management
- Grand Canyon University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Middle School Writing
- Middle School
- +29 subjects
Tara: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...this time, I had the opportunity to work with students ranging from preschool to adult. I enjoyed traveling to many of Japan's beautiful cities and neighboring countries while learning about the language and culture. Although I have enjoyed my experience in the classroom immensely, I primarily enjoy working with students on a one-on-one basis. This gives me the opportunity to get to know them as individuals and really keep track of their progress. I view...
Education & Certification
- University of Arizona - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing, Spanish and Portuguese
- Arizona State University - Master of Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PARCC
- SAT
- ISEE
- +39 subjects
Emily: Phoenix SSAT test prep instructor
...walks, and combinatorial optimization. I tutored briefly in my freshman year of college, in addition to being a homework grader for calculus classes. For the past two summers, I have worked at Epsilon Camp, which is a summer camp for students who are profoundly gifted in mathematics. My experience there inspired me to start tutoring again. I believe that all students learn a little differently, and though schools try their best they can't account for...
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Current Undergrad, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +32 subjects