Varsity Tutors offers a comprehensive Virginia Beach SSAT prep course to help students build their study skills in advance of the exam. The SSAT is a high-stakes assessment that private and independent schools may use as an objective data point to compare applicants who come from different backgrounds. It is available to students in grades 3-11, separated into the Elementary Level (grades 3-4), Middle Level (5-7), and Upper Level (8-11) to provide test-takers with an age-appropriate challenge. Students take the test the year before they plan to enroll in a new school. For instance, a third-grader who takes the exam is hoping to attend a private school beginning in fourth grade.
Most schools consider more than one factor in their admission decisions, but a good performance on the SSAT is certainly one way to help your student's applicant stand out in a crowd. Every Virginia Beach SSAT class we provide goes over both the academics and the strategy on the exam, equipping students to face test day with confidence. Continue reading to discover more about how our service may be able to help you.
What subjects does a Virginia Beach SSAT course typically review?
All levels of the SSAT contain the same five sections: Experimental, Writing, Quantitative (Math on the Elementary Level SSAT), Reading, and Verbal. The SSAT's Experimental section consists of unscored test items that the manufacturer uses to evaluate questions for future exams. Therefore, there are only four sections that test-takers need to concern themselves with in their prep. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect on each section:
1. Writing
The Writing section of the SSAT serves to measure a student's written communication skills, including organization, clarity of expression, and command of English language conventions (punctuation, grammar, spelling, etc.). It is not scored but instead submitted as a writing sample with every application you send out. Kids taking the Elementary Level SSAT have 15 minutes to write a short story about a picture in their test booklet. The directions also remind them to include a beginning, middle, and end in their work. Students taking the Middle Level SSAT have 25 minutes to write a response to one of two creative writing prompts. Older students taking the Upper Level SSAT also get 25 minutes but choose from a creative writing or traditional essay prompt instead of two creative options.
2. Quantitative
The Quantitative sections test a student's command of age-appropriate mathematical concepts. Kids at the Elementary Level are tested on basic concepts like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. They need to respond to 30 multiple-choice items in 30 minutes. Both the Middle and Upper Level SSAT incorporate more advanced fields such as algebra, data analysis, geometry, and probability. The Quantitative section is split into two subsections, each containing 25 multiple-choice items in 30 minutes (50 questions in one hour total). Calculators are not permissible on any SSAT exam, so students shouldn't count on technology handling the arithmetic for them.
3. Reading
The Reading section measures a test-taker's reading comprehension skills through a series of passage-based multiple-choice items. Students at all levels must identify a passage's main idea and supporting details, use context to work out an unfamiliar word's definition, and differentiate between figurative and literal language. Older students must also critically analyze arguments and draw valid conclusions based on the evidence in a passage. Elementary Level SSAT test-takers have 30 minutes to answer 28 questions (seven passages with four questions each), while older students have a total of 40 items to answer over 40 minutes.
4. Verbal
The Verbal section assesses a student's vocabulary knowledge through a series of multiple-choice questions pertaining to analogies and synonyms. Since it's basically impossible to memorize what every word in the English language means, students are advised to study word roots, suffixes, and prefixes to help them figure out what a new word might mean. Children taking the Elementary Level SSAT have 20 minutes to answer 30 questions, and older students have half an hour to answer 60 questions.
What are some of the benefits of taking a Virginia Beach SSAT course?
Every Virginia Beach SSAT class we provide entails in-depth instruction on the academic concepts that appear on the test, practice questions to give students a sense of what to expect, and proven test-taking tips that can help students feel more comfortable on test day. If your student gets intimidated by numbers, their instructor might teach them ways to make math seem more approachable. Similarly, reading the questions before their associated passage on the exam's Reading section can make it easier to identify the information you're looking for.
Each Virginia Beach SSAT class also takes place online on our exclusive live virtual platform. Our platform creates the illusion that your student, their teacher, and their classmates are all in the same room when they may in fact be miles apart. Asking for help is as easy as raising your hand, and students are free to interact with one another as well as their instructor.
Contrary to what you may believe, that's a good thing. Talking things over with a peer can promote a greater understanding of academic concepts than working exclusively with an adult. Explaining something to somebody else can also foster a more comprehensive view of a topic, making exercises such as outlining an essay prompt as a group more productive than they may initially seem. Having multiple students in the room also allows multiple people to split the cost of the class, making it more affordable than you might think. Best of all, you can arrange private sessions with the teacher if your student seems to be falling behind.
We also make all of our products as convenient as possible. New courses start up every week, and two-week and four-week sessions are available to fit into nearly any student's schedule.
Can I sign up for a Virginia Beach SSAT course today?
Simply reach out to a knowledgeable educational consultant using the information below to get the enrollment process started. Varsity Tutors looks forward to enrolling you in a Virginia Beach SSAT course that meets your needs today!
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Taylor: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
I graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelors in Physics. I'm currently a graduate student pursuing a PhD in theoretical physics. I immensely enjoy what I do, and that passion is what fuels my tutoring style. I specialize in tutoring for Differential Equations and Multivariable Calculus, these courses are often difficult to conceptualize and I enjoy communicating the ideas to students. ... The most important step towards understanding problems and mastering subjects is learning the underlying concepts before attempting to jump through a step-by-step solution
Education & Certification
- United States Military Academy - Current Undergrad, Physics, Nuclear Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +70 subjects
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Taylor: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...Taylor. I am very excited to meet you! I graduated with a Bachelor's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Master's degree from the University of Richmond in Richmond, Virginia. I have 5 years of teaching experience (in 2nd, 4th, and 6th grade) and look forward to many more years to come. I will commit to making sure every student gets the tools and instruction that he/she may need to be successful academically. As I...
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- University of Richmond - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- Elementary School Writing
- Math
- +11 subjects
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Stephanie : Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...is critical to developing trust, which allows for learning from all involved in the relationship. I truly believe reading is the key to communication, education and transformation for humans at all ages and learning levels. I enjoy getting to know scholars and believe in data and practice that yields results scholars can be proud of. I work to develop strong ELA skills through teaching strategies, developing personalized learning and encouraging scholars to be willing to...
Education & Certification
- Old Dominion University - Bachelor of Education, Education
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Masters in Education, Health Unit Coordination
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- STAAR EOC
- PSAT
- ACCUPLACER
- +44 subjects
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Christopher: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...make things harder than they need to be. I use technology as much as possible and like to find resources that I can provide to my students to make their academic careers more enjoyable and manageable. I retired from the US Navy in 2015 after serving for 22 years on active duty. I am enjoying my retirement and each opportunity I get to work with the wide variety of students here on Varsity.... I view teaching as a highly purposeful communication that occurs within the complex flow of human interactions. My primary goal is the crafting of clear and effective instruction materials to facilitate learning through discovery, exploration, and execution of learning activities. Using this as a foundation, I strive to reduce the difficulty that many students have learning to write well by breaking concepts down into the smallest chunks possible. To evaluate learning outcomes, I adapt various measures such as individual and collaborative work output; critical, creative and reflective writing (learning journals); writing portfolios; presentations utilizing multi-media technology; combined creative, reflective, critical thinking activities (written or verbal); student's contribution to discussions and feedback; various activities that apply multiple intelligence abilities; and concept summaries. With this at the core of my philosophy, I unceasingly strive to improve myself through reflective self-evaluations and I endeavor to keep my knowledge and expertise in our field updated. I value feedback from my students, mentors, superiors and colleagues to enhance my potential and capabilities in the teaching profession. Maintaining a non-threatening environment is also crucial to allow the productive flow of communication exchange between students and the instructor and among students themselves. Learning materials, activities, assessments and evaluations of learning outcomes must cater to the diverse learning styles, talents and capabilities, educational, social, and cultural backgrounds of students.
Education & Certification
- Auburn University - Bachelors, English
- Auburn University - Masters, Technical and Professional Communication - English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASVAB
- ISEE
- HSPT
- +74 subjects
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Amy: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
I am a recent graduate of Radford University. I majored in Interdisciplinary Studies with a license to teach Pre-K to 6th grade. I have experience tutoring and teaching many different ages. I concentrated in math and Spanish during my time at Radford. I love to work with all ages and help those that need help learning a concept or many.
Education & Certification
- Radford University - Bachelor of Science, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE-Lower Level Verbal Reasoning
- Spanish
- Elementary School
- +25 subjects
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Shawn: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
I have been teaching and tutoring Math for over 15 years. I started my career as a high school teacher and am currently a Lecturer of Mathematics at a local university. I have a Master's Degree in Applied Computational Mathematics and can help with nearly all high school and college level math courses. I look forward to helping you understand the Mathematics that's giving you trouble!
Education & Certification
- Old Dominion University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- Old Dominion University - Master of Science, Computational Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACCUPLACER
- SAT
- +65 subjects
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Katelyn: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...and a fourth grade classroom as a long term substitute while the teachers were on maternity leave. I believe in active, engaging learning where content is presented to show students how it applies to their lives. For example, working with decimals isn't another thing to do in math; you have to know how to work with decimals so that you can work with money. Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, cooking/baking and am working towards...
Education & Certification
- Longwood University - Bachelor of Science, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- English
- Elementary School Writing
- Other
- +7 subjects
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Dolores: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...of Cambridge College in June 2012. I received a Master's in Special Education K-12. I lived in Italy prior to graduating college. A Senior Chief needed a tutor for her son who was struggling. I tutored the young man in reading and math. While my degree is for kindergarten through 12th grade, I enjoy working with kindergarten through 4th grade. I am passionate about reading, writing and math in grades kindergarten to 3rd. I believe...
Education & Certification
- Cambridge College - Master of Science, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- English
- Elementary School
- +25 subjects
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Alice: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
I have been working in the education field since I graduated from college in 2011, and couldn't be happier! Working with students to help them persevere and succeed is challenging, but the rewards are greater. I try to make learning fun and exciting for all students to help them feel confident and inspired. I am very passionate about engaging and motivating...
Education & Certification
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- High School English
- Elementary School Science
- +16 subjects
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Meredith: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered the transformative power of personalized guidance. I understand that every learner is unique, with distinct strengths and challenges. My motivation to tutor stems from the belief that education is a shared journey, and by offering my knowledge and support, I can contribute to the success of others.
Education & Certification
- Villanova University - Bachelor of Science, Human Services
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Master of Science, Emergency Management/Homeland Security
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SHSAT
- UK A Level
- +155 subjects
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Thomas: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...for the last eight years. My experience includes mentoring for the JCOC Kids Club program and the U. of Okla. K20 college-bound program, presenting Brain Awareness exhibits as a member of the Society for Neuroscience, and assistant coaching a high school Mock Trial team. Tutoring goes best when the student is motivated, and I have two main approaches to motivating my students. First, context- a topic isn't interesting or important 'just because', we have to...
Education & Certification
- University of Oklahoma Norman Campus - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- +73 subjects
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Elizabeth: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...grade teacher in the Virginia Beach public school system. I have been teaching for 11 years, all of which have been in Virginia Beach. I have spent most of my time teaching 2nd grade, but I have also taught 4th and 5th grade. I grew up knowing I wanted to be a teacher and spent my high school and college years volunteering with different children's programs, primarily in my church. I have a passion and...
Education & Certification
- Longwood University - Bachelors, Liberal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Science
- ISEE- Lower Level
- +21 subjects
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Stephanie: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...to help every student realize their fullest potential. I thoroughly enjoy tutoring students in all grades and subjects of elementary school and especially love helping students work on their reading skills, because I see reading as a way to open up a whole world of information. My organized, but flexible, style of teaching and tutoring helps me address the most important aspects of a student's academic needs while allowing for plenty of freedom for the...
Education & Certification
- Christopher Newport Univesity - Bachelors, Psychology
- Christopher Newport University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- High School English
- Spanish 1
- +25 subjects
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Marshe: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
I help learners develop the cognitive, language, physical, and social skills required to be successful. I help inspire learners to develop the self-confidence required to succeed in school and in life. I make learning fun! I support, encourage, engage, and cultivate creative minds. As an educator I offer experiences working with students, and adults. I strive to support all learners, and their diverse academic development and needs.
Education & Certification
- Norfolk State University - Bachelor of Education, Special Education
- Grand Canyon University - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Government
- High School Biology
- +45 subjects
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Linda: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
As an English teacher, creating a sense of excitement in reading and writing is what I wanted students to always strive for in their academic lives. Literature and composition played an essential role in my life, and I hope students will feel the same as they explore their imagination and curiosity. When a student tells me they just read ".........." and loved it, I feel inspired by them and encourage them to continue learning forever.
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts Amherst - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Old Dominion University - Master of Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- ACT
- ISEE
- +142 subjects
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Tyler: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...I believe in working to help children of all ages and abilities to achieve their full potential and some of my best experiences have come from in-home counseling clients and residential behavioral health counseling. I hold a Master's degree in sociology, am a qualified mental health counselor (child), and will be certified for Middle School English in Sept. 2017. I look forward to working with Varsity Tutors and helping my clients achieve their educational and...
Education & Certification
- Lynchburg College - Bachelors, Sociology
- Illinois State University - Masters, Sociology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- GED
- +78 subjects
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Michael: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...skills in the upper elementary grades. My personal interests are running half and full marathons and showing our Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy in local dog shows. I like to travel whenever possible. When I was in the military, I was a Korean linguist, so learning new languages is an interest of mine. My students tell me that I am extremely patient and understanding, and I enjoy helping people understand concepts and developing a life-long love of...
Education & Certification
- Texas State University-San Marcos - Bachelor of Science, Interdisciplinary Studies
- SUNY College at Potsdam - Master of Science, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Life Sciences
- Spanish
- +30 subjects
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Nathaniel: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
I will make it the ultimate goal of every student I tutor to understand absolutely everything that they have trouble with. I aim to help with critical thinking and inquiry so that the student not only solves the problem, but understands the concepts and where they need to be used.
Education & Certification
- Old Dominion University - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- PSAT
- +211 subjects
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Laura: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...started at William & Mary when I was earning my Biology BS. My teaching career started as a life science teacher in middle school, moving on to High School where I have been for the past 12 years. During that time I earned a Masters degree in Special Education. I have taught AP Biology, IB Biology HL/SL, IB Environmental Science, AP Environmental Science. In high school I played basketball and lacrosse, and enjoy any type...
Education & Certification
- College of William and Mary - Bachelors, Biology, General
- Grand Canyon University - Masters, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CogAT
- ISEE
- PARCC
- +69 subjects
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Lisa: Virginia Beach SSAT course instructor
...I am certified to teach middle school math (including algebra), ELA, and science; math is my passion. When not teaching, I love to travel. On my bucket list are seeing the brown bears in Katmai, Alaska and polar bears in Churchill, Canada as well as Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland. I cherish working with learners, facilitating the skills that will help them open doors that will maximize their potential to positively engage in our world.
Education & Certification
- St. Mary's University - Bachelor in Arts, Music Performance
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Masters in Education, Music Teacher Education
- Virginia Wesleyan College - Bachelor in Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- GED
- ASVAB
- ACT
- +68 subjects