SSAT Writing (Upper): Grades 8+

About this course

Academic SSAT Writing is designed to help middle school students grades 6-8 prepare for the SSAT test in a fun and engaging way.  All classes will use a variety of approaches (e.g. SSAT training books, PowerPoint, video, games, etc.) to help students fully prepare for the SSAT. In addition, at the end of each semester half, students will be given 4 real life setting, timed  SSAT tests and direct feedback on each so students know exactly what to expect when they sit down to take the test.

What you'll learn

 The semester will be divided into two parts. As students have the op-on of choosing either creative writing or essay writing once they begin their test. We will be focusing on both so that students will be prepared regardless of which one they choose.

‍The first  half of the semester will focus on the creative writing portion of the SSAT. In creative writing, we will be studying a variety of short stories that cover the material we will be focusing on. We will be learning figurative language, characters, character dialogue, setting, plot the hero’s journey, story structure and lots more.  

‍The second half of the semester will find students focusing on the essay portion of the test. In the essay portion we will dissect and study all of the parts of the essay- hook, thesis, topic sentences, supporting information, restated thesis and conclusion sentence. Students will then learn to assemble all of the parts together into a well supported, clear essay.

Materials & Homework

Homework will be assigned for this class. Each week students will be expected to demonstrate outside of class the materials that were covered in class. Homework can vary in length from a few sentences to an entire essay. It’s been my experience that students find the week between classes ample time to complete the assignment. Homework assignments usually take students anywhere from 10-45 minutes to complete.  

Also, a computer writing program (e.g. Microsoft Word) will be needed so that students can submit homework properly.