6th - 8th Grade
Set College Expectations…
If your child is in middle school and doesn't know if they want to go to college, it's your job to convince them. The most academically successful high school graduates say that not going to college was never even a choice; ever since they could remember, attending college was a foregone conclusion. These families set college expectations early. Many middle school students are optimistic about their futures, no matter what their grades or financial circumstances. Leverage that optimism and assure them that college is essential, and that they have to do their best in school if they want to have the most options after graduation. Whether the college solution is 4-year or 2-year, we should prepare all of our kids so they can make the choice for themselves by grade 12.
SSAT Prep
If your child is entering a private school, he or she will likely have to take the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT). This timed test includes a written essay and four multiple-choice sections in math (2), vocabulary and reading. The test is administered on two levels:
1. Lower (for students currently in grades 5-7)
2. Upper (for students currently in grades 8-11).
Can your child "study" for the SSAT? Yes. Several local companies offer classes or tutoring to familiarize students with the SSAT, and this extra help does raise their test scores. In our own SSAT classes, we try to minimize students' anxiety about the exam and keep the learning fun. Bottom line, SSAT prep classes are worthwhile.
If possible, take Algebra I and the first year of a Foreign Language in 8th grade. Both will give you a head start on college-prep credits.
If you plan to apply to private school, consider taking a preparation course for the SSAT private school entrance exam.
Budget at least one hour per night of uninterrupted study time.
Read challenging (but fun) books at least two hours each week.
Practice writing and revising at least one paper/story/article per month.
K-5th Grade
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