Returning to school in the fall can be an overwhelming experience. There are new classes, different teachers, and a sudden flood of assignments. Sometimes students sit down for their first day of pre-calc, and they can’t remember any of the algebra or geometry they need to get the wheels turning. Or they open their first reading assignment, and they’re having trouble focusing and moving at a glacial pace. They are given a writing assignment, and they spend most of their time staring at a blank screen.
The best way to ease the pressure of the upcoming school year is to make sure learning doesn’t come to a complete standstill in the summer. If students are continually reading, writing, and practicing math, there’s less to relearn at the beginning of the school year. Better yet, they may even get ahead and avoid struggling with a new concept or class.
Summer is also a great time to get ahead with standardized testing. During the school year, there are commitments to school, sports, and clubs that absorb most of a student’s time, making it hard to add test preparation into the mix. Preparing for an upcoming exam in the summer is a great way to continue learning and to get ahead. Here are some of the ways Summit can support you, no matter your needs or level!
Foundations: Math, English, Reading, and Vocabulary
For students going into Junior, or even Sophomore, year our Foundations programs can assure that students are up to speed for the SAT or ACT in one or several categories. The curriculum contains a full array of math topics, the English grammar covered by both tests, strategies for effective reading, and vocabulary practice for four hundred challenging words. Students currently preparing for these tests often have topics that are hazy in their memories, like Algebra 1 or Geometry from freshman year. Even more basic topics, like percentages or fractions, may be a distant memory from eighth grade or even earlier.
For example, if you have a student planning on taking the SAT during their junior year, they can complete a Foundations program the summer after sophomore year, targeting the most challenging topics for them. They may want to start with algebra, which is essential to doing well on the math sections on the SAT. They may also want to do some vocabulary building, which is also important for the SAT and can take a longer period of time. If they are stronger in reading and grammar, they may save those topics for later in the year, but they can get a leg up in weaker areas.
Peak Programs: Math and Writing
Summit Peak programs in Math and Writing are designed for students who need a challenge.
Peak Math programs focus on problem solving and understanding how math works. Students look at unique problems from different angles. These skills will help students in school, during standardized testing, and beyond. There are Peak Math programs for grades 4-10, including pre-algebra, algebra, and geometry.
Peak Writing programs challenge students to read and respond to complex texts. Students learn about active reading and building a written argument. These skills help students prepare across multiple subjects like history and social studies, since writing is essential for a number of classes. These programs can be adapted to multiple grades.
For example, if you have a student leaving middle school and attending a more challenging high school, a Peak Writing program can be a bridge for them to longer and higher-level writing assignments. They’ll learn how to work through difficult reading and use evidence to support ideas in writing, skills they’ll be able to use in high school and college.
Getting ahead for AP programs
AP classes can be challenging for many students, but starting before the school year with someone familiar with AP exams can be a big help. AP classes can vary in how much they focus on preparing students for the actual exam, so it can be useful to understand the format of the exam and the skills needed to ace it. Support for summer AP assignments can also be provided. Students sometimes struggle to break down the work into manageable pieces over the summer and end up cramming the week before school. Tutor support can help them get through their assignments in a timely and efficient manner, while also helping build skills for the upcoming class.
For example, if you have a student taking AP Literature in the fall, they may be nervous about difficult reading or essay assignments. They can work with a tutor over the summer to build these skills – completing reading and writing assignments similar to what they will likely encounter during the school year and on the AP Literature Exam. They’ll have more confidence and practice going into the school year instead of panicking when they see their reading list and essay requirements.
General Academic Programs
Summit can offer help for most academic topics: all levels of math, all aspects of English language classes, history, social studies, and sciences. Tutors can customize programs for many levels and topics.
For example, if you had a student who struggled with geometry over the school year but will need it for future classes, a tutor can help make sense of confusing angles and formulas. Since they’re working one-on-one rather than in a full classroom, tutors can adjust the pace to whatever is needed. This can help students master skills that they previously couldn’t.
There are many options for students over the summer, and Summit is available to provide whatever support your student needs. If there’s any way we can help, please schedule a call with one of our friendly Program Directors, or give us a call at 1-800-MY-TUTOR.
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