If you're seeking independent school or private education for your student, Varsity Tutors can enroll your student in a Washington, DC SSAT course. It's important to start your student on a quality education path to help them in the future.
Taking a Washington, DC SSAT class can help students have better insight into the testing material. Varsity Tutors can help your student get a general layout and feel of the test. Here's some background on the SSAT.
What Is the SSAT?
The SSAT is a standardized test that helps determine the abilities of students looking to enroll in an independent or private school. Your student will be tested on basic verbal, math, and reading skills to see if they can have a successful academic path in an independent or private school setting.
At the Elementary Level, 3rd-grade applicants will apply to an independent school for the 4th grade. For 4th-grade applicants, they'll apply to an independent school for 5th grade.
The Middle Level is for 5th, 6th, or 7th-graders that want to attend an independent middle school within the next year.
The Upper Level is for students from 8th-11th grade seeking admission to an independent high school in the following year.
In all levels of the test, the Writing sample and Experimental section are unscored. All schools that your student applies to will be sent their Writing sample. Additionally, your student will not be allowed to use a calculator on the Quantitative section at any level.
If your student is on the Elementary Level, guessing is encouraged since they won't be docked points for a wrong answer. However, Middle Level and Upper Level students will receive one point for each correct answer and lose a quarter of a point if they answer incorrectly (there's no penalty for any unanswered questions). Here's more in-depth information about each level of the test.
What could a Washington, DC SSAT course help your student cover?
Elementary Level
The test consists of 89 questions and allows your student just under 2 hours to complete it.
On the Quantitative Section, students have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions. Your student will cover basic math in the following topics: number sense, properties and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and spatial sense, measurement, and probability.
Students have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions on the Verbal Section. It assesses your student's knowledge of the English language. Your student should be mindful of language, word relationships, vocabulary, synonyms, and subtleties in word meanings.
For the Reading Section, your student will have 30 minutes to answer 7 passages with 4 questions apiece (28 questions total). This tests reading comprehension, particularly when it comes to finding the main idea of a passage, meanings of words, and identifying information.
Students are given 15 minutes to create a prompt for the Writing Sample. Your student may be asked to write a simple story on a picture prompt that needs a beginning, middle, and ending. Your student could be tested on their organization, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
The Experimental Section also allows 15 minutes for completing 15-17 questions.
Middle Level
This test gives students just under 3 hours to complete 167 questions.
In the Writing Sample, your student should be mindful of choosing one creative prompt to base their story. Additionally, your student should be aware of writing techniques, such as grammar, spelling, organization, and punctuation for this portion of the test.
The Quantitative Section gives students 50 questions (25 questions for both sections); each totaling 30 minutes a section (1 hour total). It may be helpful for your student to review concepts in arithmetic, elementary algebra, geometry.
In the Reading Section, there are 40 passage-based questions to complete within 40 minutes. Students will have to interpret the meaning of both narrative and argumentative passages. To prepare for this section, students could brush up on techniques, like finding the main idea of the passage, words and phrases in context, and understanding the author's tone.
For the Verbal Section, your student will have 30 minutes to answer 60 questions (30 synonyms, 30 analogies). It may be a good idea for your student to improve their vocabulary in order to help with different concepts, such as word roots, prefixes, and suffixes, and relating ideas and words to the context.
The Experimental Section gives your student 15 minutes to complete 16 questions.
Upper Level
The test allows students under 3 hours to finish 167 questions.
Your student is given 25 minutes to complete the Writing Sample. Students should be aware of their choice to pick one prompt out of two selections (one creative and one traditional essay). Also, it may be helpful to review skills in organizing a story or essay; writing with good grammar, spelling, punctuation; supporting a statement with examples.
The Quantitative Section consists of 2 sections of 25 questions, which totals 50 questions. There are 2 30-minute sections (1 hour total). Your student should be aware of concepts such as data analysis, coordinate and plane geometry, and algebraic equations.
To get through the Reading Section, your student will have 40 minutes to answer 40 questions. Your student should be mindful of how to read through passages to understand argumentative and narrative perspectives. This can be helpful in formulating and evaluating opinions and arguments.
The Writing Section allows for 30 minutes to complete 60 questions (30 analogies, 30 synonyms). Your student should be aware of different prefixes and suffixes within Anglo-Saxon, Greek, and Latin dialect.
How does a Washington, DC SSAT prep course assist your student?
A Washington, DC SSAT course has an interactive, online setting. With good preparation, your student will have a good foundation for studies in an independent or private school. An instructor can help clear up different concepts that your student may find tricky.
Also, being able to collaborate with others can make it easier to dissect large amounts of information. This can be a very helpful method for your student to get more out of SSAT review sessions.
How can I find a Washington, DC SSAT review?
Going to a different school can be a big change of pace for your student. Varsity Tutors can help you find a good Washington, DC SSAT class so your student gets the assistance needed to get ready to take the test.
Getting this assistance early on can lead to quality learning in your student's formative years. Contact Varsity Tutors today to find out more information about a Washington, DC SSAT course.
Samantha: Washington SSAT course instructor
...I had a speech impediment as a child and had to attend speech therapy, so I know very well how nerve-wracking it can be to learn, and especially speak, a foreign language. But not only did I learn French, in my last job I used French often to speak with foreign government officials and even briefly interpreted for a Member of Parliament. So no matter how frustrating you find learning French to be or preparing...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, 1. International and Comparative Political Science 2. Economics
- Johns Hopkins University-Schools of Advanced International Studies - Current Grad Student, 1. Conflict Management 2. International Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +96 subjects
Matt: Washington SSAT course instructor
...as a test-prep instructor for over 7 years and have absolutely loved it! It has always been very gratifying for me to help students develop academically and improve their performances on important tests like the LSAT and SAT. I have an excellent academic record and have done very well on standardized tests such as the SAT and the LSAT. I understand the skills and strategies needed to succeed on these tests, and how to present...
Education & Certification
- William and Mary - Bachelors, Psychology and Philosophy Double Major
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- LSAT 5-Week Prep Class
- SAT
- ISEE
- +24 subjects
Daeyong: Washington SSAT course instructor
...lessons, resulting in semester long workshops at local middle schools. I am also the President of our school's National Math Honor Society, an organization dedicated to promoting the education and enjoyment of math to younger students. Every time I tutor students privately or through these organizations, I find it extremely rewarding when a student finally understands a new concept, or applies a concept I have taught them to a real-world scenario. Though I particularly love...
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- SSAT Prep - Upper Level Class
- +54 subjects
Lauren: Washington SSAT course instructor
I am an experienced SAT, GRE, and math tutor. My expertise is in SAT test prep.
Education & Certification
- Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- HSPT
- CLEP
- +43 subjects
Paula: Washington SSAT course instructor
...are powerfully reflected in my ability to accommodate various learning styles, behaviors, and abilities while making learning an exciting, positive experience. Learners are diverse in every way, and each student requires unique strategies, motivators, and reinforcers to be successful throughout the learning process. I take pride in knowing that my students look forward to learning and gain confidence to tackle new challenges; as they begin to take the necessary steps toward becoming independent learners. I...
Education & Certification
- Notre Dame of Maryland University - Bachelors, Elementary/Special Education
- Loyola University Maryland - Current Grad Student, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Science
- Elementary School Reading
- +13 subjects
Erin: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Masters in Education at American University. I plan to teach secondary Math in DC beginning with the 2014 - 2015 school year. I have been tutoring all through High School and College in an extremely wide range of subjects in Math. From Algebra I to higher level college Math, I am always excited to help students learn to love the Math they are studying and gain confidence in their abilities. I would hope that, in...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- Multivariable Calculus
- +29 subjects
Richard: Washington SSAT course instructor
...that best suits a particular student. After completing a bachelor of arts in political science at Yale University, I served 8 years as a combat arms officer in the US Army. I coached, trained and mentored soldiers and junior officers in a wide variety of tasks. After leaving the military, I completed graduate coursework for a master's degree in international affairs at Tufts University. Finally, I recently finished all academic requirements for a Bachelor of...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
- Tufts University - Masters, International Affairs
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +45 subjects
Kelly: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Design. I have a professional educator's certificate issued by the State of Florida Department of Education. I am endorsed in reading and ESOL. Since graduation, I have spent time being a 4th grade teacher of reading and social studies, helping to run a retail store, and traveling. During my time as a 4th grade teacher I also tutored students who needed extra help after school in reading, social studies, and FCAT prep. My favorite subject...
Education & Certification
- Florida State University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- FCAT 2.0
- ISEE
- +29 subjects
Matt: Washington SSAT course instructor
...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 many more.. My ultimate plan is to go to medical school, but in the meantime I try to teach as much as possible!... I know firsthand what it is like to be bogged down by material from way too many classes at once. And it can become even more difficult to focus when you throw a standardized test like the SAT or the MCAT into the mix. Because I have been through it, I bring to my students the unique perspective of a recently stressed out student myself, who can communicate with them on a personal level. I work to understand what is the most difficult, the most motivating, and the most rewarding for my students.
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Advanced Placement
- +85 subjects
Jessika: Washington SSAT course instructor
I am a second grade educator who loves seeing students grow! ... Every student is like a crayon; all different, all sharp and all an awesome part of completing the box!... Discuss their needs and where they feel they are in their academics.... Giving them tools to be successful across all content areas.... Constant encouragement and celebrating the small success!... Motivate them to keep trying and redirect my instruction.... Give them skills to assist with decoding and context clues.
Education & Certification
- Wilmington University - Bachelors, Early Childhood Education
- Wilmington University - Masters, School Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- College English
- Elementary School Math
- Technology and Coding
- +26 subjects
Alexandra: Washington SSAT course instructor
...health and safety to groups of twenty to two hundred students twice a week for three years. I have over 150 hours of teacher training and countless hours in the classroom. Furthermore, I was the editor of our student newspaper, The Daily Cardinal, and have extensive writing-coaching skills in addition to a strong grasp on the English language. I am currently employed by an educational non-profit in Alexandria, Virginia and would like to spend time...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, History and Journalism
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- ACT
- +23 subjects
Cory: Washington SSAT course instructor
...There I worked with sophomores on whatever trouble spots they were having in their classes. After college I was hired as live-in tutor for a homeschooling family with two high school age children. This was an incredible position. I worked with them on Literature, Algebra, Biology, Chemistry, History and Geography - you name it, I did it. In my tutoring I prefer to focus on the student's strengths and build recognition that everyone has the...
Education & Certification
- Berry College - Bachelors, Biochemistry, Sociology
- Northeastern University - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
- Tufts University - Master in Public Health, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- Other
- +70 subjects
Cornelia: Washington SSAT course instructor
...born into destitute circumstances, but with their education can rise above their situation. One of the only things that a child should not have to earn is their right to knowledge. Education is a human right. Every single child should be fully equipped to chose their own path in life. Every student under my tutelage will be given access to the best I have to share so that they can make their own future.... Even though it is not my first time teaching it, it IS that child's first time learning it. Therefore, I must approach each child as a blank slate.
Education & Certification
- American University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication
- Lesley College - Masters in Education, Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- SSAT- Elementary Level
- +23 subjects
Katherine: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Teacher and currently work for the Palm Beach County School District with Exceptional Student Education. I have participated in after-school educational programs and interned as a camp counselor at Camp Endeavor, a non-profit educational summer camp for DHH children ages 7-17 in Dundee, FL. In my experience I have educated students with intellectual, emotional-behavioral, and specific learning disabilities; I address each of their needs through goals and interventions I create, modify and implement based upon...
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelor in Arts, Communication Sciences and Disorders
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Study Skills and Organization
- ACT Writing
- +25 subjects
Sarah: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Psychology, graduating with a 3.90 GPA. I am currently a PhD student studying Microbiology and Immunology at George Washington University. I have been a tutor since middle school. Throughout middle and high school as well as college, I have tutored in all levels of science and math classes. I have also taken AP art classes in drawing and photography. In college, I have tutored, general biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry I, organic chemistry II, genetics,...
Education & Certification
- Elizabethtown College - Bachelor of Science, Biotechnology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- REGENTS
- ACT
- SHSAT
- +121 subjects
David: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Relations. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about the LSAT, ACT, US History, European History, and Writing. I very much enjoy teaching LSAT test preparation. It is a challenging obstacle for many students. However, once you understand what the test is trying to accomplish, it actually becomes enjoyable. Receiving a high score on the LSAT can open up a lot of doors for a motivated individual. I am most...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- +52 subjects
Nathan: Washington SSAT course instructor
I have extensive tutoring experience in the past. Before law school and after college, I worked as an assistant director of a Learning Center, and a big part of my job was working on test prep with students. I enjoyed my work, and I was successful at it because I was able to develop connections with my students and alter my teaching style to meet their needs, while still staying within the structured curriculum.
Education & Certification
- Clark University - Bachelor in Arts, English and History
- The George Washington University Law School - Juris Doctor, Law
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +29 subjects
Marcillese: Washington SSAT course instructor
...in English from Fordham University. I have several years of teaching at the college level, particularly in Developmental Reading and Writing. Looking for help with AP English, I am here to fill in those literature gray areas you are struggling with. For the college student who needs help with English Literature, Poetry or help preparing for the GRE exam, my methods will help improve your test scores. My teaching philosophy is simple, "...a little learning...
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Saint Johns University - Master of Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- College English
- World Literature
- +18 subjects
Md Mujibur Rahman: Washington SSAT course instructor
Hi Everyone! I am a theoretical physicist with a passion for teaching. I want to make students enthusiastic about physics and math. I believe physics should not be boring. I like to relate the lessons to something from the students' own experiences. It helps them to be motivated and have a clear understanding of the lesson topic.
Education & Certification
- University of Dhaka - Bachelor of Science, Physics
- University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Master of Science, Physics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- UK A Level
- +46 subjects
Branden: Washington SSAT course instructor
...Arts in Political Science and Economics, Minors in Leadership and Public Leadership, and a Certificate in Political Campaigning. While completing my Bachelor's Degree, I taught students weekly about voting rights and public policy for two years and I interned for a member of Congress for three summers in a row. I joined Varsity Tutors to help students become responsible citizens (and voters!) with a sound understanding of government, policy, and the economy. Although I am...
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- George Washington University - Current Grad Student, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- PSAT
- ACT
- +72 subjects