SAT® *
The SAT is a “power” test to see how students can respond creatively to abstract and challenging prompts in reading, writing, math, and grammar. On average, each problem will take more time and mental gymnastics to solve than its ACT counterpart. Thankfully, the SAT follows the high school curriculum and gaps in understanding can be filled by tutoring. Many test preparation programs rely on test strategies and endless practice tests without actually instructing their students on needed skills. Yet test strategies alone will not overcome gaps in knowledge. On the other hand, we at Lionheart Tutoring methodically take our students through each subject area of the test and identify key skills that will improve our students’ achievement. We teach these skills directly with repeated practice, rather than go through general mixtures of problems without instruction. Thus our students gain confidence in identifying and carrying out the needed operations to solve different problems on the exam. Furthermore, we guide students on how to approach the writing portion with ease using an intuitive approach that minimizes the danger of freezing on a difficult prompt.
Our self-designed SAT program combines direct instruction and self-teaching. With a quick initial assessment, we can identify the gaps in students’ understanding and skills in relation to the SAT subject matter. Students have regular homework and checklists to monitor their accomplishments. We select the best books for targeted practice and instruction as different texts serve unique purposes. We work with all levels of students, from those who are shooting for 500s to those who are aiming (and getting) 800s.