Help your student prepare for the SSAT by enrolling in an Albany SSAT course provided by Varsity Tutors. Designed to maximize engagement and collaboration, this course goes beyond the worksheets and textbooks that students study at home by offering an environment that encourages a full understanding of the coursework. As a result, many students who've prepared for the test in this type of learning environment have learned how to apply their knowledge outside of the classroom, making them better equipped to answer questions and solve problems presented on the test.
The SSAT is a standardized test administered to students between the 3rd and 11th grade. It's used by many private and independent schools to help with making admissions-based decisions. For this reason, it's important that your student is prepared for the test and able to score well on it, so they can increase their chances of getting into a first-choice school. Because this is the first standardized test that many pupils encounter, especially those in elementary school, preparing for the SSAT can be challenging. Students must study a number of different topics in math, English, writing, and reading, as well as sharpen their study habits and test-taking skills to improve their likelihood of success.
Varsity Tutors understands the pressure associated with preparing for the test, which is why we're offering a comprehensive Albany SSAT class that helps students prepare more efficiently. These classes, hosted completely online, give students the opportunity to interact with a professional instructor and share information, solve problems, and exchange tips with peers preparing for the same assessment.
What could an Albany SSAT course help my student review?
There are three versions of the SSAT: Elementary, Middle, and Upper Level test. The test your student takes depends on their current grade level. If they're in the 4th and 5th grade then they'll take the Elementary Level test; if they're between 5th and 7th grade, they take the Middle Level, and students between 8th and 11th grade are given the Upper Level version of the test. The Albany SSAT course helps students review all of the material on these tests by breaking down large and complex information into manageable chunks, helping most pupils study without feeling overwhelmed by the extensive material.
While each test level covers different topics, they all look at the same general subjects. These subjects are broken up into four sections of the test: Quantitative, Reading, Verbal, and Writing. There's also an Experimental portion at the end of the test, but that's ungraded and used by the test creators to help them when making new tests.
Let's look at the sections further, starting with the Quantitative portion. Here, students are evaluated on their math skills. For Elementary test takers, that means being able to answer questions based on simple arithmetic, as well as a few problems involving basic geographic and graphing. Things get more difficult for Middle Level students, who have to solve various problems covering algebra and geometry. Finally, there's the Upper Level test. Here, test takers are given a number of complex questions covering algebra, geometry, statistics, and graphing.
The next portion of the test is the Reading portion. Students here are evaluated on their ability to read and understand information, as well as identify important data in reading passages and use it to answer questions. All students will need to understand context and implied meaning when completing this section of the test, but Upper Level students will also need to evaluate the context and tone of sentences and use that to make inferences about the characters' and the authors' intentions.
The Verbal section looks at your student's English language proficiency. Elementary and Middle Level tests use various synonym and analogy-related questions to look at the test taker's understanding of words and their definitions, and whether the student knows the subtle nuances between synonyms. Things get a bit more complicated on the Upper Level version of the SSAT, which dives deeper into the etymology of words. Students taking the Upper Level test will need to have a strong understanding of root words, as they'll be required to look at Anglo-Saxon, Greek, and Latin prefixes and suffixes and use that information to define keywords.
Finally, there's the writing component. The test at most of the same skills, regardless of the SSAT level. To pass this part of the test, students need to demonstrate their command over written English, as well as their ability to spell words correctly, structure stories, and follow grammar rules. While the content assesses is generally the same, the structure of this assessment varies depending on the level. Elementary and Middle Level students choose between two creative writing prompts, both prompts requiring them to write a story following the instructions provided. Upper Level students, however, have the choice between writing a story or a traditional essay and are also evaluated on their persuasive writing techniques and their ability to support statements using examples.
How does an Albany SSAT class help my student prepare?
Our SSAT class offers a number of benefits. Students learn in an environment that covers the topics on the SSAT in depth. Along with reviewing important information from a professional instructor, they get to work alongside other pupils preparing for the same SSAT. As such, they're encouraged to work together to solve problems, share ideas, and explore different learning styles-all with the intention of performing well on the test.
What's more, our Albany SSAT class is designed to maximize convenience. Studying through virtual lessons means that your student doesn't have to worry about commuting across town or cramming study sessions into their busy schedules. They can participate in SSAT lessons at a time that works best for them, which means you and your student don't have to stress about scheduling conflicts.
How can I find an Albany SSAT prep course for my student?
Are you ready to give your student a comprehensive, interactive learning experience? Get started by contacting Varsity Tutors today and asking for more information about our Albany SSAT course. Our friendly consultants are happy to set your student up with a course that helps them prepare for this challenging exam.
Rob: Albany SSAT course instructor
...students are the same, and therefore there is no "right approach" to tutoring. Rather, I try to meet students where they are, and find ways to help them accomplish whatever goals they have in mind, be it an SAT score, a better writing style, or a new approach to studying history. I have helped hundreds of students with SAT preparation, and have worked both around the United States and internationally as a private tutor and...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, English / History / Philosophy
- Fordham University - Master of Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- ACT
- +94 subjects
Education & Certification
- Siena College - Bachelor in Arts, History Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- PSAT
- SAT
- +49 subjects
Corina: Albany SSAT course instructor
...the field of education. I have worked in several different capacities from teaching assistant to classroom teacher. My passion is teaching and to instill a love of learning in my students. With those passions, I have tutored many students throughout my tenure and in several different areas of content. As a lifelong learner myself, I am able to project the importance of realizing that, when we open our ears and eyes to learning, we allow...
Education & Certification
- The College of Saint Rose - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- Sage Graduate School - Master of Arts, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- GED
- PSAT
- +31 subjects
Kimberly: Albany SSAT course instructor
...of experience. I enjoy every single day of my job and love the adventures and passion that my students bring to me daily. I teach both regular education and special education students. I obtained my dual Masters Degree from SUNY Albany with certification in both special education and literacy. Also, I am a certified elementary education teacher and received by Bachelor of Arts from SUNY Oneonta. I understand the rigor of standardized test and use...
Education & Certification
- SUNY Oneonta - Bachelors, Childhood Education
- SUNY at Albany - Masters, Literacy and Students with Disabilities
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Math
- Other
- +16 subjects
Meghan: Albany SSAT course instructor
...program I have worked in various DC museums doing public programming. My tutoring ranges from history, both US and world, English, writing, and grammar to elementary and middle school math and Algebra 1 and 2. I love to learn and want to share that with my students. Beyond helping my students better understand subject matter, I want to help my students appreciate how they learn and the ways for them to negotiate challenges. I am...
Education & Certification
- George Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- George Washington University - Master of Arts, Museum Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- REGENTS
- SAT Subject Tests
- +87 subjects
Samantha: Albany SSAT course instructor
I am currently in the proccess of earning my doctorate of education with an emphasis in leadership studies. I tutor a large variety of subjects, mostly pertaining to English and reading but also include organization, American Sign Language, and Criminology. I also specialize in academic coaching for students of all ages.
Education & Certification
- Virginia University of Lynchburg - Bachelor of Science, Criminology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- Math
- Pre-Algebra
- +83 subjects
Anne: Albany SSAT course instructor
...SAT and ACT for over ten years. I also tutor GRE for those applying for graduate school. Study with me if you want to feel more confident and capable when taking standardized tests. You can do practice test questions with me. My specialty is working with high school students who need to learn basic grammar and punctuation, and improve their reading comprehension skills. I also tutor Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, Regents ELA, vocabulary building,...
Education & Certification
- State University of NY at Albany - Bachelor in Arts, English
- State University of NY at Albany - Master of Science, Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TEAS
- ISEE
- CogAT
- +105 subjects
Victoria: Albany SSAT course instructor
...in 1994 with a B.Ed in Education and Teaching at elementary level. My main subject is English, reading and writing but I will also tutor math. I believe in making learning fun and always plan activities and games that are of interest to the student and keeps their attention. I have a love of books that I always aim to pass on to the student through reading a variety of different texts. I am cheerful,...
Education & Certification
- South Bank University London UK - Bachelors, Primary School Teaching (Education) B.Ed (Hons)
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Elementary School Math
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +17 subjects
Samantha: Albany SSAT course instructor
...an educator is it important to get to know each and every student. Creating fun and engaging lesson plans based on their interests, and needs will help students achieve their goals. I believe in modeling and guiding students through their weaknesses will allow students to become more comfortable when working independently. I am currently an elementary teacher, as well as a summer school teacher. I have tutored /taught students from incoming kindergarten to 6th grade.
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Old Westbury - Bachelors, Childhood education 1-6
- St. Johns University - Masters, TESOL and Literacy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- AIMS
- ISEE
- +72 subjects
Christopher: Albany SSAT course instructor
Michael J. Fox has famously taken the words of Ignacio Estrada and made them a personal slogan of sorts "If a child can't learn the way we teach. maybe we should teach the way they learn" This is my personal mission as an educator, to always find the best way to reach students and ensure that they become life long learners. ... My teaching philosophy centers on students doing as opposed to just listening. I utilize various different methods of presentation so that students can get a basic understanding of concepts, and then through actual practice and experience, offer them the teaching to master the concept.
Education & Certification
- Marist College - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of New England - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ISEE-Middle Level Verbal Reasoning
- Elementary School
- +39 subjects
Jennifer: Albany SSAT course instructor
...students in paper writing and editing, I have much experience helping others further themselves in their education by building confidence, voice and academic empowerment. My primary focus is on student engagement and building a tutor-student relationship based on trust, honesty and open-mindedness. I see student success beyond just comprehension or memorization. I help students to truly synthesize the skills and concepts they need to feel confident in their internalization of the knowledge as they reach...
Education & Certification
- University of Oklahoma Norman Campus - Bachelors, Social Sciences and Organizational Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- CLEP
- +147 subjects
Paige: Albany SSAT course instructor
...began in high school teaching a dance class to preschoolers on the weekends, I quickly found out this is something that I loved doing so I started teaching an after school Religious Education program. During high school I went to the elementary school to be an aid in a first and second grade classroom. I enrolled in a college program for Early Education and Special Education,during this time in college I was hired at the...
Education & Certification
- Edinboro University - Bachelors, Early Childhood (Prek-4) and Special Education (PreK-8)
- University of Albany - Current Grad Student, Reading and Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Summer
- Elementary Math
- +17 subjects
Kristine: Albany SSAT course instructor
I am very much a people person. I am very passionate about helping people. I have a ton of experience in teaching in a variety of environments, including tutoring, teaching at the college level, working with students online, as well as developing and providing instruction for fellow employees and staff. I love working with students and getting them to understand material, and helping them to feel more confident about the topics.
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- Albany State University - Master of Science, Taxation
- Albany State University - Master of Science, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ISEE
- ACT
- +14 subjects
Brent: Albany SSAT course instructor
...looked up to and told myself that I wanted to be "that teacher" (a rememberable one/one they look up to). I have parents come up to me asking how I do it and all I say is it takes patience. Every student is different and has their own unique approach to learning. My goal is to have each student become a life-long learner and strive to do better at anything they do.... To promote a want to learn; To conduct positive learning no matter the setting; To lay the foundation for a lifelong learner;
Education & Certification
- The College of Saint Rose - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Univeristy at Albany - Masters, Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- REGENTS
- Social Studies
- +25 subjects
Joseph: Albany SSAT course instructor
I am a friendly, articulate, professional, college educated (graduate level) tutor versed in a variety of disciplines. I am very patient and dedicated to finding innovative and creative ways to educate those I am teaching. Students from ages 7-99 welcome! I am also eager to work with Senior Citizens for I find they make the best students. I have experience and training in teaching individuals with both Learning Disabilities and Developmental Disabilities.
Education & Certification
- Ithaca College - Bachelor of Science, Photographic, Film, and Video Technology
- University of Houston - Master of Arts, General Literature
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- REGENTS
- ACT
- +131 subjects
Andrew: Albany SSAT course instructor
...I consider my role as an educator to be a sacred trust between my students and me. That means that my mission is not simply to help my students get good grades (although we do that, too); I work to strengthen my students' ambition to know more and to use academic success as a measure for how much they are learning. Most teachers don't like to be asked why students have to know math or...
Education & Certification
- Swarthmore College - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- PSAT
- REGENTS
- +142 subjects
Tristina: Albany SSAT course instructor
...my students personally, socially, and academically. I believe reaching out to the student in these three core areas will help to maximize student motivation, engagement and achievement. I have always enjoyed helping students academically. I have always loved helping students personally and socially. A school counselor is a career in which I am lucky enough to do all three. As a current school counselor for the past seven years, I have had the opportunity to...
Education & Certification
- The College of Saint Rose - Bachelors, Public Communications and Spanish Minor
- The College of Saint Rose - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Reading
- Homework Support
- +32 subjects
Chris: Albany SSAT course instructor
...All my years teaching has ranged from second grade thru fifth and sixth grade. I truly love teaching. I really enjoy watching students learn, take on new challenges and being successful. I know how to motivate students in doing their very best. To me learning is fun and exciting and that is how I teach. I am also a huge sports fan. This love of sports has given me the opportunity to be a coach...
Education & Certification
- SUNY College at Oneonta - Bachelor of Science, History
- The College of St Rose - Masters in Education, Early Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary School Math
- Elementary School Science
- Middle School Writing
- +31 subjects
Marc: Albany SSAT course instructor
...has been teaching in the U.S. and Asia (China and South Korea) for the last 12 years. I hold a BFA in Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts, a MA in Education from New York University, and TOEFL certification. Understanding and mastery of learning content can be achieved by independent perseverance and attention to detail. Never give up! In my experience those students who put the most effort in and are seriously committed...
Education & Certification
- School of Visual Arts - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Visual and Performing Arts, General
- New York University - Master of Arts, Early Childhood Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +62 subjects
Matt: Albany SSAT course instructor
...a Public Health major with a concentration in Immunology and Infectious Diseases. I then went on to complete a Masters program at Georgetown University in human physiology. Given the amount of schooling I have gone through myself, I have taken a wide range of subjects and more standardized tests than I would like to admit. I have taught students of almost every age in various fields such as elementary science, Hebrew, chemistry, MCAT prep, and...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- +85 subjects