Standardized Testing Philosophy

We understand the pressure and intensity traditionally associated with standardized testing. The process can be anxiety-inducing and the competitive nature of standardized testing has heightened the need for additional support preparing for these tests.

Our three-pronged approach focuses on:

  • Confidence
  • Familiarity
  • Consistency

At Always Sunny Tutoring, we believe the most important factor in preparing for and taking a standardized test is confidence. To that end, our approach is structured around working with students individually to develop a personalized strategy that is crafted to address that student's specific strengths and weaknesses, with the goal of a complete review of all material that may appear on the test. 

Along with reviewing content, Always Sunny Tutoring believes that familiarity with the testing materials, including different structures of questions, how they are asked and what knowledge the questions are designed to test. With no surprises regarding either content or question format or ambiguity, students can leverage this preparation to recognize when these questions appear on test day, and to use that familiarity to greater success.

Additionally, and of equal importance, at Always Sunny Tutoring, we develop with our students a strategic tool set that provides an approach focused on consistency which allows for a familiar routine for each section of the test. This facilitates a more linear and conditioned approach so that problem-solving on any given question leverages a similar methodology that the student is familiar with, and which generates improvement and confidence. In addition to traditional strategies, Always Sunny Tutoring also strives to attack standardized testing from a different perspective, using out-of-the-box techniques and strategies to help students gain an additional advantage on test day.

To learn more about our support of college admissions exams, please click here.

To learn more about our support for admissions tests for 4th-12th grade, please click here.

Testimonials

“Whitney is an extremely talented tutor who works beautifully with children and adapts well to a variety of learning styles.  He worked with my two teenage daughters who have very different approaches to learning.  He managed to capture their attention with ease and helped them understand the importance of breaking lessons down to the basics so they could build from there in a logical manner.  Thus, the anxiety and overwhelm of large assignments and new material felt much more manageable for each of them and reduced stress levels.  By fostering this confidence in them, they were able to better absorb the material to complete the assignments successfully as well as learn how to better approach their work each day in the classroom on their own.  He has a special talent for helping kids feel comfortable and guiding them on how to best approach their next hurdle whether it be in Math, English or History.  We can't recommend him enough!”

-Beth, Parent of 8th grader, 10th grader

“My sons loved working with Whitney for test prep and general essay writing skills. Whitney has a wonderful way of making the learning fun and effective. He is able to connect writing skills and strategies to ideas that children find interesting. He also has a similar approach to math and keen ability to figure out a child’s strengths and learning styles in tackling advanced math topics. My sons and I would recommend Whitney highly!”

-Soumya, Parent of 6th grader, 4th grader

“Whitney tutored my son for the SAT & ACT - he was exactly what he needed - not the typical tutor - he figured out how my son learned best and that's how he taught him, and the result? My son increased his SAT score from his first SAT by more than 100 points, and it gave him the balance he needed since his overall school average was a B (curse of the specialized HS). He also tutored my daughter who has test anxiety and it helped her tremendously. I am going to hire him again, that's for sure!”

-Tahira, Parent of 12th grader, 7th grader

Whitney tutored me for the SAT this past summer and I can say without a doubt that his assistance in my score was a major boost to get me into college. Before he started teaching me the best way to take the test, I was getting mid 1200s on the PSAT and online practice exams, but after his tutoring my score jumped 180 points, from a 1240 the first test to a 1420 on my second try. On top of being a great mind and tutor, I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent with him, as his personality plays a big part in making the learning more comfortable, as his friendliness and humor makes the work much less of a burden. I’m now headed to Penn State University, and I owe Whitney a great deal of thanks for it. Highly recommended!

-Zach, 12th grade student

Whitney is a fabulous tutor! He covers all subjects and is comprehensive with his knowledge. His warm and supportive approach allows him to connect with kids on an interesting and fun level. My sons love working with him.”

Amy, Parent of 7th grader, 4th grader