The new digital, computer-adaptive SHSAT is here for NYC special high school admissions! For the past 16 years, Natalie has helped students prepare for the 8th grade and 9th grade versions of the SHSAT, for both the ELA and math sections, so they can reach their score goals. Now that both sections are computer adaptive, students will not be able to return to questions within the set and alter their responses; once they complete and submit all questions in the set, they cannot review their responses. Students will only be able to return and change their responses to passage-based questions sets in the ELA section. With Natalie’s guidance, students are well prepared to answer questions in both sections and balance their time management on the test for maximum success.
SHSAT test prep
SHSAT Math
The new digital SHSAT Math section is computer-adaptive, which means that students cannot change their answer choices once they have answered a question. Calculators are not allowed. Since the SHSAT focuses on strong arithmetic skills as well as a good foundation of basic math and algebra knowledge, Natalie helps her students learn how to solve SHSAT math problems step-by-step and how to build good time management with test-taking strategies.
SHSAT ELA
The SHSAT ELA section focuses on writing concepts and skills, grammar knowledge, and complex reading comprehension. Now that students can only change their answers to passage-based questions, with the rest of the test section being computer adaptive, Natalie helps them understand the questions being asked, review any needed concept knowledge, and master strategies that target efficient reading comprehension in a standardized test setting.
Tutoring includes:
Study plan based on previous SHSAT score results or initial practice test scores
Complete review of SHSAT concepts and strategies with targeted practice
Lesson notes (PDF format)
List of recommended resources for SHSAT Math + SHSAT ELA
Weekly feedback on student progress and homework completion (available for both sections)
FAQ about Natalie’s test prep
Do you offer a full test prep program or classes?
No, I do not offer programs or classes. My lessons are one-on-one and adapt to the needs of every student, based on where they are at in their test prep and how much support they need.
What does a typical lesson with you look like?
I help my students not only get to the right answer, but also understand how they got to the right answer and what makes it correct. They also learn how to methodically approach questions and answers. By understanding how a test works and how the testmakers have created the questions, students can better learn how to take that test with minimal stress and maximum success.
Can you guarantee a score increase on the actual test?
No, as a tutor, I cannot make any guarantees when it comes to scores and reaching score goals. Students must be fully committed to their study plans, daily practice goals, and using the strategies they learn for them to make significant progress in their test prep.
How many lessons will my child need?
I cannot provide an estimate for the total number of lessons without more information or meeting the student. Some students need more support, while others need less. Ideally, test preparation should start as early as possible before a test date, at least 2-3 months. To start, I always ask for practice test results or previous test results to help me see where we need to focus the most. I also ask about what test prep, if any, a student has done so far and what their specific test score goals are.
Parents and Student Reviews
Thoughtful, Generous, and Helpful
“Natalie G. is a thoughtful, generous, and helpful tutor. She does an assessment for her planning of support. The content instruction offers a clear understanding to achieve measurable goals. In addition, she provides resources for continued learning and study. Extremely satisfied with this fantastic tutor for my middle schooler.”
Natalie G. Private Tutoring 