Common Core Exams

Unlike entrance exams, the common core exams are tests which students are required to take at the end of every school year. Two separate tests are issued over the span of two weeks, with each test lasting multiple days. One test focuses on English Language Arts (ELA) and the other focuses on Math.

As the common core is designed to meet the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) determined for every state, the content on each exam is specifically tailored for each grade. Accordingly, students are likely to be exposed to coaching and training for these tests in school directly, which adds a level of familiarity for students.

Nevertheless, although not their main intention, the ELA and Math exams are often considered by secondary school admissions.  Accordingly, we believe it is important to demonstrate a fluency on these tests that can act as a complement to strong grades in school and other standardized testing performance, or conversely, can act as a positive indicator should the student's other optics need more context.

At Always Sunny Tutoring, we are able to provide insight on how to prepare effectively for these exams. Moreover, we see these tests as an opportunity to reinforce good practices that can help enhance and improve overall academic development in core subjects. 

Accordingly, our strategies focus on answering the important questions of "how" and "why" as they relate to both the ELA and Math portions of the tests, which also aids better understanding of these foundational concepts of familiar subjects taught throughout the year, including reading comprehension of different genres, writing mechanisms and structures, and identifying arguments and evidence.

Through this coaching, we reinforce writing skills and fundamentals, including:

  • How to make and use an effective outline, and structure an essay

  • Identifying and using evidence to support constructed arguments in short and long-form

  • Editing/Revising your work, including focus on minimizing errors and leveraging grammar and vocabulary to greater effect

As it relates to Math, our focus is on mastering the content that will be covered on the exam; however, our approach to Math will help students learn how to provide effective written explanations of theories and methodologies for fundamental math concepts as an integral part of this exam.

 Similar to the ELA exam, Always Sunny Tutoring uses the opportunity of these annual exams to reinforce best practices for math, including:

  • Problem-Solving

  • Minimizing careless and avoidable mistakes

  • Showing all of your work

  • Checking your work

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