Varsity Tutors can get your student set up with comprehensive Houston SSAT prep that can fit easily into their schedule. The Secondary Schools Admission Test (SSAT) gives independent and private schools a means of assessing and comparing applicants' basic verbal, math, and reading skills. There are three levels to this exam, each one more advanced than the last. Your student's scores on this test could influence their admission to the schools they are applying to, so you may be looking into ways you could help them get the most out of their time before the exam. Let Varsity Tutors help you explore convenient and effective test review options.
What can Houston SSAT prep review?
The SSAT is administered on three levels: Elementary, Middle, and Upper. The Elementary Level SSAT is designed for third- and fourth-grade students. There are five sections: Quantitative/Math, Reading, Writing Sample, Verbal, and Experimental. The Middle Level is for 5th through 7th-grade students applying for an independent middle school while the final level of the test is for 8th to 11th-grade students. Both forms of the exam consist of six sections: Quantitative 1 and 2, Reading, Verbal, Writing Sample, and Experimental. The Experimental and Writing Sample sections for every level is unscored. The Experimental section simply tests out potential future questions for the SSAT. Let's look at the differences in each exam.
The Elementary Level SSAT has a time limit of one hour and 50 minutes. Your student will have 30 minutes on the Quantitative and Reading sections, 20 on the Verbal, and 15 on the Writing Sample and Experimental sections. This test aims to assess the knowledge they should have gained in their earlier classes, such as basic addition and subtraction, age-appropriate vocabulary, and reading comprehension skills. The Writing Sample focuses on your student's ability to organize an essay from beginning to end. They will be given a photo, which they must use to create a short story.
The Middle and Upper Levels of the SSAT allow up to two hours and 50 minutes to tackle the 167-question test. This is broken down into 30 minutes on the Verbal and both Quantitative sections, 40 minutes on the Reading section, 25 on the Writing Sample, and 15 on the Experimental section.
If your student is taking the Middle Level SSAT, they will need to demonstrate an understanding of a variety of topics. They will face questions designed to assess their grasp of coordinate geometry, arguments and opinions, and logical relationships between words and ideas. The Writing Sample offers two creative essay prompts for your student to base a story upon. If your student is taking the Upper Level SSAT, the test will incorporate concepts like properties of triangles, interpretation of arguments and opinions, and root words. Your student will also write an essay or story based on one of two prompts. This assignment measures their ability to write persuasively with supporting examples.
How can my student benefit from different kinds of Houston SSAT prep?
There are two main categories of reliable SSAT prep to choose from: personal tutoring and prep classes. Depending on your student's preferences, they may benefit from one or even both options. Varsity Tutors' educational consultants can guide you toward the option that works best for your student.
There are new classes starting up every week for multiple sections of the SSAT. We can enroll your student in a Houston SSAT prep class that is led by an expert instructor who has been thoroughly vetted for experience and skill. Once enrolled, your student can log on and participate in online virtual classes in which they can interact with their peers and instructor as if they were in the same room. Since sessions are online, your student can pick a spot and learn from there.
Your student's Houston SSAT prep course can engage in group discussions that can allow them to gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and skills on the exam. The instructor can explain the types of questions covered on the exam, as well as explore different strategies that can allow your student to maintain an efficient pace while they work through the test. If they are having trouble understanding something, their course instructor can set aside time to work one-on-one with your student.
Some students prefer to work in a more private environment. We can connect you with a Houston SSAT tutor who has the experience and knowledge necessary to help your student work towards their testing goals. As the only student in each study session, your student can enjoy a totally customized test review experience. Their instructor can get to know your student's learning personality and use teaching techniques that can appeal to their preferences. Your mentor can regularly assess your student's knowledge and skills to identify areas of the exam in which they have the most room to grow. As your student works, their instructor can give ongoing feedback, whether they are working through sample writing prompts or tackling a practice test. One-on-one tutoring can give your student the opportunity to gain insight into their learning needs, which they can implement in their independent study sessions.
How can my student get set up with Houston SSAT preparation?
No matter whether your student has been working to prepare for the SSAT for a while or they haven't even begun yet, Varsity Tutors can help get them set up with Houston SSAT prep that can suit their needs. Whether your student enrolls in a prep course or they work with a private instructor, this can be a great investment in their academic future. Your student can take the time to build solid test-taking and study skills that they can apply to future exams and courses.
If you're interested in finding excellent SSAT prep options that can give your student a leg up as they prepare for this exam, get in touch with Varsity Tutors. Our educational consultants are prepared to help you figure out the best test preparation method for your student.
Megan: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...sciences. I spent 3 years as a supplemental instructor for chemistry students, which made me passionate about tutoring and teaching beyond Baylor. I love seeing the "Ah-Ha" moment in students and helping them reach their academic goals. Learning should be exciting and stimulating, and I am here to facilitate that experience. My tutoring interests are mostly focused on Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Test Prep. Outside of academia, I am involved in pediatrics...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- +49 subjects
Alexandra: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
I am a rising senior at The University of North Texas in Denton. I am working towards my Bachelor of Arts in Spanish as well as English with a concentration in Creative Writing. I was raised in an academically...
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER
- GED
- Erb
- +308 subjects
Sarah: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...degree in Art History and Child Development and completed my master's degree in Communications at the American University of Paris. I am a former classroom teacher at a wonderful Houston charter school, as well as several different schools around the world. I have worked with students from kindergarten to middle school in many different subject areas. I love the learning process, and figuring out how to best design a lesson for a specific student so...
Education & Certification
- Vanderbilt University - Bachelor in Arts, Art History
- American University of Paris - Master of Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR
- Elementary School Math
- +17 subjects
Malcolm: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...junior at Rice University, majoring in biochemistry and cell biology. I am particularly interested in tutoring math, science, writing, and test preparation. I have a strong background in tutoring over many years, and I am very comfortable working with many different kinds of students. My goal is not only to ensure success in the classroom today but to equip my students with lifelong skills that will help them to be successful in the future.
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- HSPT
- ISAT
- +42 subjects
Velma: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...also certified to teach ESL. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Reading, Grammar, Phonics, and Writing. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests, we always seem to have the most fun. I want each and every child to gain the knowledge they need in order for them to excel to the next level. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, cooking, exercising, and playing...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Clear Lake - Bachelor of Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR EOC
- ISEE
- ACT
- +58 subjects
Leslie: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...Doctorate of Philosophy in Mathematics Education from Texas A&M University, I fully understand the commitment to and importance of education and closing achievement gaps. During my entire career in education, I was given many opportunities. I served as Mathematics/Science Education instructor on the post secondary level, did consulting specializing in supplemental education solutions for Mathematics, Science, and STEM, taught and tutored within schools, and lead a district charter managing multiple campuses. Although my work experience...
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelors, Math
- The Texas A&M University System Office - PHD, Math Ed
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- ACCUPLACER
- +54 subjects
Windy: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
Hello, I am looking forward to helping you reach your academic goals in elementary/middle school math/remedial math. My desire is to also help you reach your maximum potential by teaching you skills and strategies that will help you to become a life long learner.
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Lamar University - Masters in Education, Counselor Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- STAAR EOC
- ISEE
- +27 subjects
Mathilde: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...am passionate about helping others achieve their goals, as demonstrated by my experience leading a student-run business, mentoring employees and peers, and managing the HR department of a restaurant group. The importance of active listening and clear communication while tutoring is paramount to my teaching philosophy. My goal is to help your student realize their strengths. As a Linguistics major, much of my academic career focused on studying and understanding the nuances of English and...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelors, Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- PSAT
- +67 subjects
Phoebe: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...MS from the University of North Texas Health Science Center. I'm currently working towards applying to medical school and a good part of that decision is because I love the STEM field so much. Throughout my education, I've personally always learned best by teaching my friends and classmates. Science and math is tough - but I wouldn't be where I am today without the help of teachers and peers who have patiently helped me understand...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies
- University of North Texas - Master of Science, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ACT
- WISC IV
- +49 subjects
Michael: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...with their homework. I continued in college tutoring the STEM fields for college and high school students., especially Calculus, Basic Computer Science. I also tutored Essay Writing, Creative Writing, Speech in school. I graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College with a Bachelors in Computer Science in May 2014. My favorite subject to tutor is Spanish. I am recently ending a trip as an ESL language assistant in Seville, Spain. I studied the Spanish language diligently for...
Education & Certification
- Gustavus Adolphus College - Bachelors, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- Science
- +49 subjects
Jennifer: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
I hold a BA in Elementary and Middle School Education, and an MEd in International Education, as well as an Iowa State Teaching License, and a TEFL Certification. I have taught overseas in the international school system for ten years, and would love to share my knowledge and expertise with you.
Education & Certification
- University of Northern Iowa - Bachelor of Education, Elementary School Teaching
- Endicott College - Masters in Education, International and Comparative Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- MAP
- +68 subjects
Education & Certification
- Texas A & M University-College Station - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Purdue University-Main Campus - Master of Science, Applied Behavior Analysis
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR
- WISC IV
- OLSAT
- +254 subjects
Connie: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...I have experience teaching Reading, Writing, English, Elementary or Middle School Math and College Psychology and just about any grade or course in Special Education. I use an abundance of techniques from mnemonic strategies to games, tricks, reverse teaching, and so forth until I find what works for the student ! I believe everyone can learn if given a chance. I have had much success not only in teaching my students to pass their courses...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelors, Psychology
- Sam Houston State University - Masters, Counseling Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- STAAR
- ISEE
- +29 subjects
Lise: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...children to college students. In my 23 years of teaching I have helped dyslexia students, special education students, ESL students and college students become better readers and writers. I am Texas state certified in English Language Arts, English as a Second Language, and Special Education. I am an adjunct English professor at HCC. I have a bachelor's and master's degree, both in the arts. Since I love learning I have always studied several subjects at...
Education & Certification
- York University Toronto Canada - Bachelor in Arts, English
- York University Toronto Canada - Master of Arts, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +101 subjects
Ivonne: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...in education in Spanish. I have been teaching Spanish as a foreign language for thirty years. I am a very flexible teacher, ensuring every student's learning style and abilities are addressed. I like teaching conversational Spanish, vocabulary, grammar, and writing at all levels. I enjoy giving classes with daily everyday topics or the basics needed. The best way to learn a foreign language is with a native teacher without an accent and who knows and...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Houston Campus - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- Nova Southeastern University - Masters in Education, Spanish Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ASVAB
- HSPT
- +33 subjects
Lindsey: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...have a Master of Education degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Houston. I am hoping to pursue a degree in International Business soon. I have experience teaching Texas History, U.S. History, World Geography, AP Human Geography, and AP Psychology in both charter and public schools. I also have experience tutoring Mathematics at Sylvan Learning Center and Test Prep as a career coach for a non-profit organization. I am available to tutor a diverse...
Education & Certification
- Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College - Bachelor in Arts, History
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- HSPT
- Advanced Placement
- +38 subjects
Neemisha: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...thru remediation, coaching, homework help or anything else that may fit your child's mathematical needs. Over the past ten years I have worked with students in varying capacities from volunteering, tutoring, and teaching summer courses to full time teaching. My experience working with students has been in various private, public and charter schools. Tutoring is what I do as a career and I enjoy it tremendously. Watching students grow and become more confident and more...
Education & Certification
- The Evergreen State College - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Political Science and Government
- UMSL - Master of Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +47 subjects
Education & Certification
- Florida International University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- English
- +26 subjects
Vincent: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...I have been a classroom Social Studies teacher for six years and am a certified Educator for grades 6-12. I have strong personal experience in both the Public and Private sectors of Education, as well. I tutor in general Middle School Social Studies, Upper level Social Studies (grades 9-12), Study Skills and Organizational Training. I most enjoy tutoring History/Social Studies because I have a deep love and fascination for how the past has come to...
Education & Certification
- University of St Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- UK A Level
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +24 subjects
Angela: Houston SSAT test prep instructor
...and determine actions to implement positive change in children. Students have different abilities and learning styles and I plan on using different methods of teaching. I believe every student has to be taught on different levels, therefore; I have to teach on various levels making their learning environment fun interactive and interesting. I will make sure my students are engaged, have discussions, and do hands on teaching and one on one instruction. When students share...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Downtown - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ISEE-Lower Level Verbal Reasoning
- +7 subjects