If you are considering enrolling your student in a STAAR prep course, Varsity Tutors offers private STAAR classes that may help them improve their study skills. The STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) exams are taken by all students grades 3-12 to determine what they are learning and whether they are ready for the academic rigors of the next grade level. Standardized tests can feel daunting, so a STAAR class can help build your student's confidence as exam day approaches!
One of the first things discussed in a typical STAAR course is the structure and content of the exams your student is preparing for. If you aren't sure what they should go over during STAAR prep class sessions, the chart below provides a breakdown of the STAAR schedule by grade level:
STAAR Test | Grade Level or Course |
Reading | Grades 3-8 |
Math | Grades 3-8 |
Writing | Grades 4 and 7 |
Science | Grades 5 and 8 |
Social Studies | Grade 8 |
EOC (end of course) | Algebra I, US History, Biology, English I, English II |
The beauty of private STAAR prep classes is that they are flexible enough to adapt to any student's needs. For instance, let's say that your student is in Grade 8. They have four STAAR tests on their plate this year: Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. A typical STAAR course might spend equal time on all four subjects, but most students are stronger in one or more than the others. Spending an equal amount of time on everything isn't the optimal solution in most cases.
Let's add that your student excels in reading comprehension, so you're not really worried about the Reading STAAR. Strong reading comprehension skills also make Social Studies easier, so that one is probably fine too. It looks like this hypothetical student might be best served by concentrating on the Math and Science STAAR exams, with maybe a little bit of review for the other two, during their STAAR courses. Of course, sessions could also focus on Reading and Social Studies in the opposite scenario.
Once you know which exams your student should concentrate on, STAAR prep courses might go over the specific contents of those tests. Returning to the example above, the following graphic breaks down the concepts on the Grade 8 Math STAAR exam:
STAAR Grade 8 Math Topics
- Numerical Representations and Relationships
- Computations and Algebraic Relationships
- Geometry and Measurement
- Data Analysis and Personal Financial Literacy
Again, working with a private instructor allows students to concentrate on any subject. If your student has strong algebraic skills but has a harder time with geometry, their instructor might provide extra geometry practice problems for more experience. A private instructor may also be able to incorporate your student's interests to make studying more engaging. For example, financial literacy can seem dry as a standalone topic, but framing it as saving for a video game may make it more interesting.
We also try to make STAAR test prep as convenient as possible. Our Live Learning Platform allows your student to meet with their instructor online, taking the hassle out of private STAAR prep courses. We also do our best to match every student with an instructor who meets your scheduling needs. After all, no kid should have to compromise sports, hobbies, or even relaxation time just to study for a test.
If you're ready to learn more about our STAAR classes, contact Varsity Tutors today for more information. Educational Directors are currently standing by to address any questions you have!
John: STAAR course instructor
I graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC in 2008, the oldest English speaking acting conservatory in the world. I graduated Summa from University of St Thomas with a BA in English, and just wrapped up a MS in Data Science from Northwestern. I'm a huge Red Sox fan and love watching detective shows when I have free time.... Positivity. Always. I believe that if a student is given positive tools and is allowed to understand the material rather than be lectured at, they're more likely to do well in the future.
Education & Certification
- American Academy of Dramatic Arts - Associates, Acting
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor of Fine Arts, English/Drama
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- ISEE
- CLEP
- +110 subjects
Kay: STAAR course instructor
...Substitute Teacher and countless years as a tutor. I have extensive experience with learners who have other contributing factors which hinder them academically. It is my belief all students are able to achieve academic success and I work tireless to identify strategies to assist them in overcoming hurdles. I tutor a broad range of subjects and age groups. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling around the country, engaging in community art projects, walking and...
Education & Certification
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville - Bachelors, Psychology
- Webster University - Master of Arts, Counseling Psychology
- Webster University - Masters, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- K-11th Grade Standardized Tests
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +75 subjects
Koga: STAAR course instructor
...as immigrants to this country through education. I fully recognize the importance of learning. For the past two years I taught mathematics at the middle and high school level as a Teach For America corp member in the Dallas Independent School District. I know that the confidence that a student receives when they finally understand a concept that has alluded them is powerful enough to positively impact them in all arenas of their life, not...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- English
- Literature
- Math
- +17 subjects
Kristie: STAAR course instructor
...income communities and youth all over San Diego county through an after school education curriculum. The principles of the program are that children can learn through nontraditional measures such as technology, play, and self-expression. All of the communities involved were bilingual communities such as the Spanish immersion program in South County and the Kumeyaay native people of East County. I tutored children K-8 in all subjects, especially English, Grammar, Reading, Writing, problem solving, storytelling, Math,...
Education & Certification
- UC- San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +28 subjects
Jane (Elizabeth): STAAR course instructor
...Whether it’s helping an autistic seven-year-old learn to play with other children or helping a high school freshman learn to make a solid argument, I value the impact I make on others through teaching. I began my professional life as a tutor six years ago, and have taught a variety of subjects, including time management, reading, writing, history and SAT and AP preparation. In lessons, I focus on teaching my students how to learn efficiently...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SAT
- English
- +26 subjects
Adriana: STAAR course instructor
...retired educator with almost 30 years of experience in the classroom and library. A large part of my classroom instruction involved tutoring in all core subject areas in grades K-5. As a librarian, I had the pleasure of working with middle school teens as a resource and mentor in academic competitions and other activities. My teaching philosophy involves listening to the student and assessing weaknesses and strengths. I use scaffolding to build upon small successes...
Education & Certification
- Southern Methodist University - Bachelors, Broadcast Film
- Southern Methodist University - Masters, Bilingual Education
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- HSPT
- SHSAT
- +62 subjects
Kimika: STAAR course instructor
...and have the student teach it to me to make sure everything is understood. I also love giving helpful hints and shortcuts on solving certain equations. I think that I am a very flexible person when it comes to my tutoring style. I know that everyone learns differently and it is my duty to do everything in my power to help my students succeed. If one explanation isn't quite getting through, there are always many...
Education & Certification
- Amherst College - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Elementary School Math
- Trigonometry
- Pre-Calculus
- +8 subjects
Janet: STAAR course instructor
As an educator for 20 years in both the US and Canada, I enjoying working with students of all ages. With a background in Special Education and tutoring for test prep (GED, ACT, SAT), I have a heart for those who find it difficult to succeed in the classroom. It is my passion to encourage students and help them learn strategies to succeed in their education and in life. ... All students have the ability to learn, so the challenge, as a teacher or tutor, is to understand how the student learns best. Utilizing that learning style, I desire to encourage the student and provide opportunities for the student to succeed. Beyond the current learning style, I believe it is important to equip the student with skills to learn in any classroom environment which they may encounter. Critical thinking skills are equally important to prepare the student for both classroom success and life.
Education & Certification
- Moody Bible Institue - Bachelors, International Mnistries
- Lamar University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SAT
- STAAR EOC
- +64 subjects
Andy: STAAR course instructor
...career as a U.S history and AP Human Geography teacher at Harmony School of Science at Houston, Texas, and at Harmony Science Academy at Houston. I accumulated the rest of my teaching experience in various learning centers and international programs in China teaching AP U.S World History, SAT, and TOEFL courses. For the past five years, I had been teaching middle school math in Texas and Virginia. Currently, I am teaching Algebra at Cullen Middle...
Education & Certification
- Unversity of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, History
- Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Masters, History
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +45 subjects
Amanda: STAAR course instructor
...I received my BFA in Dance (emphasis in Modern Contemporary Dance) from San Jose State University, and have been dancing professionally for the past 3 years since I graduated in 2012. Working with youth and helping students discover their true potential for success, regardless of background or barriers, has always been a deep-seated passion of mine. I, myself, a first generation college student hailing from a low income family, want to emphasize how important it...
Education & Certification
- San Jose State University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- CAHSEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Elementary Algebra
- +25 subjects
Iselee: STAAR course instructor
...bilingualism, and I am eager to assist students with academic goals. Previously, I've taught 3rd grade bilingual courses including English and Spanish literacy and grammar as well as math, science, and social studies. I have also tutored high school and university writing and math. I have extensive writing and editing experience as well as lesson planning, curriculum assessment, and critical evaluation ability. A lifelong student, I would be delighted to help you find your passion...
Education & Certification
- Loyola Marymount University - Bachelors, Spanish
- Johns Hopkins University - Current Grad Student, Digital Communication
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +72 subjects
Connor: STAAR course instructor
...have continually enjoyed seeing my students achieve lofty goals under my instruction. I specialize in tutoring biology, chemistry, physics, and economics for high school students. In addition to this, I also tutor students in college level general chemistry, general biology, organic chemistry, introductory physics, economics and for the MCAT exam. I excelled in undergraduate coursework pertaining to these subjects and have prior experience in assisting pre-professional (pre-medical and pre-nursing) students looking to succeed in their...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- ISEE
- +43 subjects
Christopher: STAAR course instructor
...basics. I have experience in working with students ranging from children in pre-academic years to young adult in pursuit of a college degree. During my undergraduate years, I was involved in the founding and management of a program tutoring youth who had classroom troubles or learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADD. My friendly personality, quick-critical thinking skills and ability to adapt to various learning styles allow me to create innovative ways for the student...
Education & Certification
- The Johns Hopkins University - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- College English
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Writing
- +26 subjects
Madeline: STAAR course instructor
...my masters in chemical and biomolecular engineering. I have spent a lot of time around children and I have spent a good amount of time teaching as well. I want all students that I tutor to feel comfortable when I am tutoring them and I believe all students have the ability to improve. I am very comfortable teaching all subjects for grades up to 9th grade and, when dealing with high school courses, I love...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- STAAR EOC
- +117 subjects
Nazish: STAAR course instructor
...that is in accordance with the Texas Kindergarten curriculum for those students who are not yet able to enter Kindergarten due to mandated age requirements. Along with abundant experience with all preschool years, I have assisted children in many elementary grade levels. My strongest subjects to tutor are English, reading, phonics and elementary math. In my experience, prepping students in reading and phonics is the most enjoyable for me because of the range of techniques...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Bachelor of Science, Child Development
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Reading
- English
- Test Prep
- +11 subjects
Brittany: STAAR course instructor
...atmosphere and develop learning activities that relax student's inhibitions. Thus, allowing them to take chances, a skill that is crucial to progress in a new system of communication. As a second language learner myself, I understand the trials students must face in language acquisition and this translates into a sense of empathy for both the struggles and rewards of the learning process. My teaching experience is centered on providing students with the skills they need...
Education & Certification
- University of Central Arkansas - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Brock University - Masters, Philosophy/ Comparative Literature
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- TOEFL
- ACT
- +51 subjects
Felix: STAAR course instructor
...school level, I can tutor high school and college students as well - specializing in math, writing, and science subjects. Being a student myself, I understand the importance of and at times, difficulty, in finding effective studying strategies. As a tutor, I want to pass on the knowledge and techniques I've developed throughout my years in school and help guide students to reach their academic goals. My tutoring style is "slow and steady". For me,...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Test Prep
- +34 subjects
Theodore: STAAR course instructor
...served as a healthcare advocate. I have extensive experience tutoring English, math, science, and SAT/ACT at the middle school through college level. I have tutored students who went on to be accepted into Ivy League universities. I also am highly skilled at working with students with learning differences such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia as well as students from under-resourced communities. I look forward to helping your student not only excel but also enjoy learning!
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Bachelor in Arts, Folklore Studies
- HoHoKus-Hackensack School of Business and Medical Sciences - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- SAT
- PSAT
- +125 subjects
Joe: STAAR course instructor
...a Master's in Data Science/Business Analytics. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I am passionate about working with all students, especially those needing assistance in finance, accounting, mathematics, and computer science/programming courses because these subjects present so many opportunities for problem solving and students to obtain that "aha" moment. That said, I am qualified and willing to help you reach success in all the subjects in which I am approved to tutor. I started...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- American University - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- WISC IV
- SAT Subject Tests
- +222 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Lamar University - Masters in Education, Educational Administration
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SSAT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +32 subjects