"If your middle schooler is multilingual and building academic English vocabulary to prepare for the SSAT or ISEE Verbal or Reading Comprehension sections, I can help. These are largely vocabulary tests in disguise.

I help students aged 11-14 improve verbal and reading comprehension scores through targeted vocabulary and question-type practice.

We begin with a practice test section to establish a baseline and identify which words matter most. From there, I create small weekly word sets that combine high-value exam vocabulary with personalized words pulled directly from missed questions. The SSAT Verbal focuses on synonyms and analogies. The ISEE Verbal includes sentence completion along with synonyms, so students practice vocabulary both in context and through word relationships.

I also teach common word roots so students understand how words are built and can make educated guesses on unfamiliar terms. For example, the root *mal* means “bad,” which helps students connect words like *malevolent*, *malfunction*, and *malady*. This reduces memorization and improves transfer to new questions.

We target close reading strategies with quality test-prep products. My lessons are structured, calm, and supportive, which helps anxious or perfectionistic multilingual students build confidence while learning flexible reading comprehension and test-taking strategies.

Parents appreciate that my approach is targeted and realistic. Students work with a manageable set of words each week, and parents can clearly see how lessons connect to practice test results.

I specialize in middle school test prep with a strong focus on academic English and vocabulary development. I hold a B.S., a J.D., and TEFL and TESOL certification, and I have taught at Los Angeles City College and Santa Barbara City College. Since 2019, I have worked as a Wyzant tutor.

I offer a free 15-minute consultation (not a lesson) to discuss your child’s needs.

Contact me to schedule a consultation or a first lesson." less...