If you are considering having your student apply to an independent or private school, it could be a good idea to reach out to Varsity Tutors and enroll your student in a Philadelphia SSAT class. The SSAT is one of the entrance exams used by many independent and private schools as a component in their admissions process. Thus, doing well on the test could improve the likelihood that your student is accepted into the private or independent school of your dreams. The SSAT measures students' reading, verbal, and math skills because these are considered important when it comes to predicting academic success.
Depending on your student's grade level, they will take one of the three levels for the SSAT, which include an Elementary Level, Middle Level, and Upper Level. The Elementary Level test is offered to students in elementary school, the Middle Level is given to students who want to go to an independent or private middle school, and the Upper Level is designed for students who are going to attend high school.
What can a Philadelphia SSAT class help my student review?
The SSAT tests on a lot of different information across a range of academic subjects. For this reason, it may be useful for your student to take a class that helps them review topics across all four sections of the SSAT. All of the levels contain a Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, and Writing section. There are some differences between the sections across the three levels though, including the fact that the Middle and Upper Levels have 167 questions while the Elementary Level only has 89. There are also some differences in scoring as students lose one-quarter of a point for answering a question incorrectly on the Upper and Middle Levels while there isn't a penalty for choosing the wrong answer on the Elementary Level. What follows is a brief overview of the four sections and what your student will encountering during each one.
Verbal
The Verbal Section is geared towards the English language on all of the levels. The Elementary Level test contains 30 questions and students are provided with 30 minutes to finish it. This section focuses the majority of its attention on vocabulary and the relationship between different words. In contrast, the Upper and Middle Levels contain 60 questions, with 30 of them covering analogies and the other 30 covering synonyms. Students only have 30 minutes to complete this section despite it having 30 extra questions.
Quantitative
The Quantitative section covers math related topics across all three levels. The three levels are similar in the sense that students are not allowed to use a calculator for this section regardless of their age. The Elementary Level test is comprised of 30 questions and students have 30 minutes to complete the entire section. At this level, the test is based more on basic math, including shapes, properties, and graph interpretation. It may be helpful for your student to be skilled in fractions and place values as well.
The Middle and Upper Levels have 50 total questions on this section and students have an hour to finish it. These questions cover slightly more complex math at this level such as arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Reading
The Reading section prioritizes reading comprehension across all three levels. In general, students are required to read through various passages and answer questions about what they read. The biggest difference between the three levels is the reading-level needed to comprehend the passages. While the Elementary Level is primarily focused on students being able to identify the main idea of the passage, the Middle and Upper Levels expect students to pick out details and make predictions and inferences based on the information provided.
Writing
The Writing Section isn't scored at any of the three levels, but it is still a good decision for your student to do their best on this section because their writing sample will be submitted to any school they apply.
At the Elementary Level, students are given 15 minutes to complete this section. They are given a picture and they are required to write a story about it. The story has to include a beginning, middle, and end because students are being tested on their spelling and punctuation skills as well as how well they can organize their story.
At the Middle and Upper Levels, students are given 25 minutes to finish this particular section. Your student will be given two writing prompts of which they must choose one. At the Middle Level, students have to choose between two separate creative options, while they have the option to choose between a creative or narrative prompt at the Upper Level.
How can a Philadelphia SSAT course help my student prepare?
Philadelphia SSAT courses are available for your student to take online. This can be helpful when it comes to being able to fit a course into your student's schedule. Whether your student is in the robotics club or on the swim team, it can be difficult to find time to study with so many other activities going on. That is part of what makes an online SSAT class so convenient because you won't have to stress about finding time to get your student to another activity. They can simply stay at home and still have the opportunity to prepare for the SSAT.
SSAT courses are designed to be as close to a regular classroom experience as possible. Your student will have access to an instructor who can help them review the necessary material while also giving them the chance to collaborate with other students in class discussions and group activities.
How can I enroll my student in a Philadelphia SSAT prep course?
Enrolling your student in a Philadelphia SSAT prep course can be as easy as reaching out to Varsity Tutors either online or over the phone. Don't hesitate to contact us today. Our educational consultants are ready to answer any questions you may have and enroll your student in a two-week or four-week session.
Alex: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...ingredients needed to conquer any math issues. The first, is the quality of the tutor. Without a doubt, many people can teach you how to do a math problem, but not everyone can help explain it in such a way that you understand it and can apply the knowledge to future problems. The second important ingredient to successful learning is a positive attitude by the student. When tackling tough math problems, many students begin to...
Education & Certification
- Drexel University - Bachelors, Biomedical Engineering
- Drexel University - Current Grad Student, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- REGENTS
- SAT
- +17 subjects
Joshua: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...with college admissions counselors across the country, and I gladly connect my students to any college admissions departments I am familiar with. Although my tutoring specialty is test prep -- SAT, ACT, PSAT, SHSAT, and GRE -- I particularly love tutoring writing, and creative writing is a hobby of mine. My philosophy is that even when we are preparing for a standardized exam, we should always be relating the work to your passions, pursuits, and...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, French and Francophone Studies
- University of Pennsylvania - Master of Science, Social Policy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- +92 subjects
Brian: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...needs to be intentional, energetic, hilarious, focused, motivating, and inspiring, which requires passionate educators, such as myself, to create environments where all of this is possible. I approach education from a whole-child perspective. A student's success is not based solely on their academic achievement, but their social/emotional development, their relationships with their peers, family, surrounding community, culture, and world. This enveloping philosophy begins with developing a student's character, heart, intellect, and creativity equally; the things...
Education & Certification
- Messiah College - Bachelors, Psychology
- CUNY Hunter College - Masters, Early Childhood Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Literature
- English
- +15 subjects
Eric: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...student at Swarthmore College. While I'm pursuing a technical degree I have diverse interests and I believe that my liberal arts background help me connect and communicate effectively as a tutor. I want to help you or your child understand the core concepts of any field instead of rattling off formulas and techniques for specific questions. To me, the mentor/mentee relationship is one of the most important human relationships --I will take any request seriously...
Education & Certification
- Swarthmore College - Current Undergrad, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +92 subjects
Abby: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...Abby. I'm currently working at a public school in the Fishtown section of Philadelphia. I work hard to develop 1:1 or small group sessions with my students to help them find their confidence to succeed as I know they are capable of doing! I am always challenging myself as well as my students to reach our full potential. I hold my students to high expectations. I am excited to have the opportunity to share my...
Education & Certification
- Rider University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
- Gwynedd Mercy University - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Elementary School
- Elementary School Reading
- +15 subjects
Robert: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...of Pennsylvania (honors), and I am currently pursuing my PhD in Psychology. I have taught as a tutor and college professor for three years at local institutions like Temple and Drexel. I am currently a research assistant at Columbia, UPenn, and Yale, where I enjoy discovering strategies for optimum educational performance. Besides these things, I personally enjoy making challenging concepts simple, and I am good at helping people find their own best learning style. Finally,...
Education & Certification
- Drexel University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- University of Pennsylvania - Masters, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- High School English
- +52 subjects
Kathryn: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...Years Mathematics, and Language Arts for 7-12th grades. I taught in the public schools for several decades in middle school and elementary grades. I love to spend time with young people and help them become successful in their learning. I know that each student wants to feel respected and understood, and that listening is as important as talking. Each student has an individual style of learning, and my students and I work together to discover...
Education & Certification
- University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Chestnut Hill College - Masters, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- GED
- ISEE
- +40 subjects
Ivorie: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...except the one that is not asked. I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Minor in English from Baylor University. I am currently a Doctoral student studying Clinical Psychology at Widener University. I have worked previously mostly with children between ages of 6 and 13 but I am comfortable working with students of all ages. I tutor in almost all subjects, but my favorites are Math, English, Psychology and Study and...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Widener University - PHD, Currently Studying Clinical Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Reading
- Elementary Math
- +21 subjects
Julie: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...key to understanding and interacting with the world in a positive way. I know certain books have changed my life and I hope to instill the same passion I have for the written word within all my students! I have been teaching both high school and middle school in Philadelphia for the past five years. I have taught reading intervention and seen many of my students make enormous gains. I am in the process of being...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology
- University of Pennsylvania - Masters, Urban Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +26 subjects
Carolynne: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...have a boring lesson--I try to make learning as fun and engaging as possible! I am more than qualified to teach the subjects I have listed in my profile, having received 5's on all my APs, and a score of 2280 on the SATs. I'm also fluent in Mandarin and English, and can speak conversational Cantonese. When I'm not tutoring, I enjoy fencing, singing, running, and hanging out with or talking to my friends, who...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Current Undergrad, Biological Basis of Behavior
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- Mandarin Chinese
- +13 subjects
Rebecca: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...Penn prior to graduating. I wanted to expand my research and teaching background after college, so I am taking two gap years before starting medical school. During the day, I work at Penn's Abramson Cancer Center as a clinical research coordinator; however, I am very passionate about teaching others how to learn more efficiently. My schedule is very flexible during weeknights and weekends, and I want to use this time to help other students to...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +43 subjects
Julia: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...all things language and culture! My journey with Spanish did not begin in a classroom - it began with immersion overseas and experiences that gave me a desire to learn more. I learned creatively, and because of that, I teach creatively. Expect to do some of the typical studying work while learning with me, but also expect to have FUN! Language is acquired when we are fully engaged in the learning process!
Education & Certification
- University of Valley Forge - Bachelor in Arts, Christian Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- A Level
- CLEP
- HSPT
- +31 subjects
Christina: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...assisted teachers with lesson preparations and attended to all students’ individual needs during the Saturday and summer school sessions. In addition to gaining experience from an after-school program, I have also provided private tutoring sessions aligned with the Common Care Standard in Math from grade levels 2 through 4. I’ve also worked with children ages three to five in a Sunday School setting, facilitating and providing crafts and activities; as well as serving as a...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Hunter College - Bachelor in Arts, Film&Media Studies
- Arcadia University - Masters in Education, Early Childhood//Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- Middle School Math
- +18 subjects
Laura: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...every student to understand that he or she also has the capacity to overcome the personal and academic challenges he or she faces. Through student teaching, field experiences, and work positions, I have grown in my passion for education and my desire to help students learn. I approach each day with energy and will consistently work hard towards the success of my students. I believe that each student can improve and learn, and will tirelessly...
Education & Certification
- Cedarville University - Bachelors, Secondary Social Studies Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ISEE- Lower Level
- Elementary Math
- +30 subjects
Serita: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...and Math at a Quaker school. I have experience working with students ages third to twelfth grade and especially love tutoring writing and math. I currently tutor students at my middle school and have two years of experience tutoring for the SSATs. I have my Masters in Special Education and Secondary Math. I graduated from Columbia University in 2010 where I majored in history. I believe every student has the ability, when given the correct...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Chestnut Hill College - Master of Science, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- SAT
- ISEE
- +41 subjects
Andreja Sasha: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...well as articulation and literacy skills. I am interested and passionate about really connecting with my clients on a level where they can enjoy the process and make great progress with their personal goals. I was once a student myself and I know how hard it is to pass entrance exams. Trust me, even if you are failing math in school doesn't mean you will have a hard time on your finals. It is possible...
Education & Certification
- Univerza v Ljubljani, Slovenia - Bachelor in Arts, Business and Managerial Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- IELTS - International English Language Testing System
- CLEP
- COMPASS
- +80 subjects
William: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...help students with writing, critical reading, and SAT or ACT preparation. I had a strong support network of teachers and mentors throughout middle and high school, so I understand firsthand the importance of thoughtful, individualized educational enrichment. I seek to meet each student where they are in order to help them reach their greatest potential! When I'm not tutoring, you might find me performing improv comedy, playing saxophone, or trying to write the next great...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor in Arts, Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +96 subjects
Sam: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...tutor basic literacy, as well as English, reading, writing and literature at all levels. I tutor elementary-level math, science and social studies. I am also a sharp essay-editor, and would be happy to support students in specific projects. I am easy-going and thick-skinned, and I am productive with reluctant/resistant students without being commandeering or condescending. I welcome additional resources from students, parents or classrooms. I'm always willing to try an unconventional approach or change tactics when...
Education & Certification
- Oberlin College - Bachelor in Arts, Theater Arts
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GCSE
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- Susan Barton Reading
- +69 subjects
Sharnelle: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
I have a master degree in business and I worked in the Accounting field for four years. My favorite subjects that I enjoyed in school was music and math. When I am not working, I playing my viola, piano or singing. My biggest passion is teaching and helping others. I love to guide and teach various programs and especially math.
Education & Certification
- University of Alaska Anchorage - Bachelor in Business Administration, Marketing
- Arcadia University - Masters in Business Administration, Global Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- GED
- SAT
- +38 subjects
Rita: Philadelphia SSAT course instructor
...gained student teaching experience on the first through fifth grade level, in both suburban and urban school districts. Throughout my teaching experience I have taught in Title 1 schools teaching third and fourth grade. This position allowed me to provide students with integrated and diverse instruction. I have a background in special needs and used that in my day-to-day classroom environment. Throughout my experiences I have been trained in many intervention programs for both Language...
Education & Certification
- East Carolina University - Bachelors, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Elementary School Math
- ISEE- Primary
- +22 subjects