Quantitative
This section tests your math skills. You will solve problems involving addition, subtraction, shapes, and patterns.
SSAT Elementary Prep Masterclass · Topic 1
Start Here & Test Overview
Your first step: what the SSAT Elementary Level test is, what is on it, and how to move through this course.
Lesson summary
Welcome! In this very first lesson, you will discover exactly what the SSAT Elementary Level test is and why it is so important. We will explore the different parts of the test, learn how this online course is set up, and share some top-secret study tips to help you succeed. By the end of this lesson, you will know exactly how to use this course to become an SSAT superstar!
Direct instruction
Welcome to the course!
Hello there, and a huge welcome to you! We are so excited that you are here. If you are reading this, it means you are getting ready for a big adventure: taking the SSAT. It is completely normal to feel a little bit nervous, but don’t worry! This course is designed specially for you. We are going to take things one step at a time, and we will be cheering you on all the way.
What is the SSAT?
SSAT stands for the Secondary School Admission Test. That is a really long name, isn’t it? Let’s break it down.
When you want to go to a special private school, the teachers and principals there want to know a little bit about what you have learned so far. The SSAT is just a tool they use to see how you think, how you read, and how you solve puzzles with numbers and words.
Who takes the Elementary Level exam?
The Elementary Level exam is created specifically for smart, growing students just like you who are currently in the 3rd or 4th grade. You aren’t expected to know high school math or middle school vocabulary. You are only tested on things that kids your age are learning!
What is on the test?
The SSAT is like a giant brain-teaser broken into four different games. Here is a quick overview of what you will see on test day:
Verbal
This is all about vocabulary! You will find words that mean the same thing (synonyms) and figure out how different words are connected (analogies).
Reading
You will read short, fun stories or articles and then answer a few questions about what you just read.
Writing sample
You will get a picture or a prompt and you get to write a short story about it. This part isn’t graded, but the schools love to read it to see your imagination!
How this course is organized
This course is built right here in Tutor LMS, which makes it super easy to use. The course is divided into Sections (like chapters in a book), and each section has Lessons (like the pages).
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We teach you a concept
Every lesson starts with a clear explanation written for your grade level.
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We show you examples
Worked examples walk through the thinking step by step.
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You take a short quiz
A quick check to test your brain and lock the learning in.
How to move through the course
Whenever you finish reading or watching a lesson, look for the button at the bottom of the screen that says Mark Complete. You must click this button to tell the computer you are finished so it can unlock the next lesson for you!
Study tips for success
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Find a quiet spot
Try to study in a place with no TV and no loud toys.
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Take brain breaks
Don’t do too much at once! Studying for 20 to 30 minutes and then playing outside is the best way to learn.
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Ask for help
If a lesson is confusing, it’s okay! Ask a parent or teacher to read it with you.
You are smart, you are capable, and you are going to do great. Let’s get ready to learn!
Worked examples
1
Worked example
Emma finishes a lesson
Scenario
Emma just finished reading her very first math lesson in the course. She scrolled to the bottom of the page, but she doesn’t know what to do next to get to the quiz.
Step by step
- Emma needs to look at the bottom of her screen.
- She should search for a button, usually colored blue or green, that says Mark Complete or Next Lesson.
- She clicks that button with her mouse.
Takeaway
Emma must click Mark Complete to save her progress and move forward.
Why this is correct
In our learning system, clicking Mark Complete acts like a bookmark. It tells the system you have finished the reading and are ready for the next challenge!
2
Worked example
Leo meets the Verbal section
Scenario
Leo is looking at the schedule for his SSAT exam. He sees a section called “Verbal.” Leo loves math, but he doesn’t know what “Verbal” means and is worried he won’t know what to do.
Step by step
- Leo remembers what he learned in the “Start Here” lesson.
- He recalls that “Verbal” is just a fancy word for “Words.”
- He knows this section will ask him to match words that mean the same thing (synonyms) and solve word puzzles (analogies).
Takeaway
Leo doesn’t need to worry! The Verbal section is just a vocabulary and word-puzzle game.
Why this is correct
Understanding the names of the test sections helps remove the fear of the unknown. Knowing that “Verbal” simply means working with words helps Leo feel prepared.
3
Worked example
Maya plans her study time
Scenario
Maya wants to be perfectly prepared for her SSAT. She decides to sit at her computer and try to finish the entire course in one single afternoon without eating a snack or taking a break.
Step by step
- Maya remembers the study tips from this lesson.
- She realizes that sitting for hours without a break makes her brain tired.
- Instead, she decides to study for 30 minutes, go ride her bike, and do another 30 minutes tomorrow.
Takeaway
Pacing yourself and taking brain breaks is much better than rushing through the course in one day.
Why this is correct
Young brains learn best in small chunks! Taking breaks helps lock the information into your memory so you can actually remember it on test day.
Short review
Key points covered
- The SSAT Elementary Level exam is for 3rd and 4th graders applying to new schools.
- The test has four main parts: Math, Words (Verbal), Reading, and a Writing Sample.
- Our course is set up step by step to help you master every single part of the test.
Important reminders
- Always remember to click Mark Complete when you finish a lesson so you can move forward.
- If you get stuck, re-read the lesson or ask an adult for a little help.
Study tips
- Study in a quiet place.
- Only do a few lessons a day so your brain stays fresh.
You are officially ready to begin!
You have taken the very first step on this learning adventure. Take a deep breath, click that Mark Complete button, and let’s jump into the next lesson. You’ve got this!