Erin Lynch, Author at 91ÁÔĆć /blog/author/erinlynch/ Prep for Success Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:56:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://assets.testinnovators.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/favicon-85x85.png Erin Lynch, Author at 91ÁÔĆć /blog/author/erinlynch/ 32 32 Great Books for Building Vocabulary /blog/great-books-for-building-vocabulary/ Sat, 31 Jan 2026 04:52:00 +0000 /?p=3264 Although your child could cram lots of QuizletsĚý to learn new words quickly, the best way to build vocabulary is simply to read: read a lot, read often, read widely, and read for fun! Children who encounter new words in the context of a story more readily pick up on the meaning of the words. […]

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Although your child could cram lots of QuizletsĚý to learn new words quickly, the best way to build vocabulary is simply to read: read a lot, read often, read widely, and read for fun! Children who encounter new words in the context of a story more readily pick up on the meaning of the words. You can also have your child keep a word list as they read, adding to it every time they come across an unknown word.

But how to choose a book among the many, many examples? We’ve curated a list of our favorites that will entertain your child, while also enriching their vocabulary!

  1. The Book ThiefĚý by Markus Zuzak
  • Intended for middle school readers, this riveting adventure story follows a young girl who aids in protecting a Jewish child in Nazi Germany.
  • Sample vocabulary words:Ěý
    • AbhorrenceĚý
    • IllustriousĚý
    • RaucousĚý
    • SepticĚý
    • Traipse
  1. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
  • The well-loved tale of friendship between a girl, a pig, and a spider is best suited for 3rd-6th graders.
  • Sample vocabulary words:Ěý
    • Enchanted
    • FrolicĚý
    • PerspirationĚý
    • RuntĚý
    • Specimen
  1. Doctor De Soto by William Steig
  • For younger elementary students, a picture book can be a wonderful way to introduce new words while keeping the readers entertained! This charming tail (no pun intended…) of a mouse dentist includes some tricky new words!
  • Sample vocabulary words:Ěý
    • Extract
    • Hoist,Ěý
    • Misery
    • Particle
    • Quiver

4.To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

  • Another middle school classic, To Kill a Mockingbird offers a powerful coming-of-age story against the backdrop of racial tensions in 1930s Alabama.
  • Sample vocabulary words:Ěý
    • Arbitrate
    • Concede
    • Erratic
    • Tyrannical
    • Unsullied
  1. Percy Jackson & the Olympians series by Rick Riordan Students from age 10 and up can embark on a mythological quest withĚý Percy Jackson, a young demigod who is fighting to prevent the end of the world with the help of his two best friends—have your child read the whole series, and watch their vocabulary grow!
  • Sample vocabulary words:Ěý
    • Impudence
    • Kowtow
    • Precariously
    • Pulverize
    • Vagrant

Originally published on November 1, 2018. Updated on January 30, 2026.Ěý

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]]> Three Ways to Teach Your Child Self-Advocacy /blog/three-ways-to-teach-children-self-advocacy/ Fri, 30 Jan 2026 09:07:33 +0000 /?p=3099 Self-advocacy is an important skill for your child to develop. Here are three ways for your child to develop this skill.

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Your child needs to learn to self-advocate to communicate with others, become independent, and grow into a self-sufficient young person. Self-advocacy includes taking responsibility for speaking up for yourself, knowing how to seek help when needed, and listening to others. Helping your child learn how to express their needs and desires will build the foundation for confidence and self-awareness as they grow older. Here are three ways to help your child develop this important skill:

  1. Learn How to Ask

Often, children have a hard time identifying what is wrong or what they need. Teach your child to express why they want or need something. If they ask for something, prompt them to express why they are asking. That way, you are guiding them to first consider, and then communicate, their needs in a given situation. Encourage them to express their needs both inside and outside of the house. For young children, it can be helpful to offer them scripted words or phrases to use.

  1. Take Responsibility

When children have tasks they can successfully complete, their confidence grows. Try giving your child regular chores or a short list of responsibilities to complete daily. Learning how to handle and practice responsibility positively will build your child’s self-esteem.

  1. Talk About Strengths and Weaknesses

One thing that can help young people self-advocate is knowing their own strengths and weaknesses. Consider different kinds of strengths, and point these out to your child regularly. Take note of their successes! Likewise, being aware of areas for growth is helpful for children. If they are aware of their weaknesses, they can better communicate with teachers and other adults about challenges. Always frame discussions of weaknesses with a “growth mindset”—encouragement will help build your child’s confidence!

Above all, observe and communicate! Learning to self-advocate depends on conversations with parents and role models, as well as consistent encouragement. Give your child the language and the confidence to ask for what they need—and watch their self-advocacy grow.

Originally published on December 3, 2018. Updated on January 30, 2026.Ěý

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]]> SSAT Tip of the Week: How to Tackle Multiple Choice /blog/ssat-tip-how-to-tackle-multiple-choice/ Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:23:43 +0000 /?p=3506 The SSAT is a multiple choice test; to answer such questions correctly, you will need a clear strategy that can be adapted to each section.

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The SSAT is a multiple-choice test; to answer such questions correctly, you will need a clear strategy that can be adapted to each section. When faced with a multiple-choice question, utilize these four testing strategies:

Strategy 1: Predict the Answer

After reading the question, try to predict the answer before reviewing the answer choices. This can deepen your understanding by engaging prior knowledge, improving comprehension, and enhancing critical thinking by helping you anticipate outcomes. It also leads to better retention and problem-solving skills.Ěý

Strategy 2: Eliminate Wrong Answers

Even if you think you know the answer, always read through every answer choice and eliminate incorrect ones. When you eliminate an answer, ensure that you understand and can explain why it’s the incorrect choice.

Strategy 3: Check your Answer

When you have selected your answer, review the question and ensure that your choice makes sense in context. If your chosen answer does not sufficiently answer the question, revisit the answers you eliminated and re-evaluate them.

Strategy 4: Know When to Guess

There is a one-quarter-point penalty for wrong answers on the Middle and Upper Level SSAT, so you should make educated guesses whenever possible. If you can confidently eliminate even one incorrect answer, you can then guess between the remaining answer choices, giving yourself a better chance at a correct guess.

However, you should refrain from answering questions which you have no educated guesses for. You don’t want to lose points for guessing blindly!

Integrating this consistent elimination system into your test-taking process will improve your performance on multiple-choice questions. This approach works across the verbal, reading, and quantitative sections, so you should practice this method for each section. Find a post about multiple choice questions on the ISEE here.

Originally published on June 3, 2018. Updated on January 30, 2026.Ěý

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]]> 4 Common Test-Day Mistakes To Avoid /blog/5-test-day-mistakes-to-avoid/ Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:17:21 +0000 /?p=3394 It’s test day! After all of your preparation and practice, you’re finally here—your hard work is about to pay off.

But, you don’t want to make an easily-preventable error on test day. Here’s a list of common mistakes that you should be sure to avoid:

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It’s test day! After all of your preparation and practice, you’re finally here—your hard work is about to pay off.

However, you don’t want to make any easily-preventable errors. Here’s a list of common mistakes to avoid when taking the ISEE or SSAT:Ěý

  1. Forgetting Your Supplies

For the paper formats of both the ISEE and the SSAT, ensure you have at least three No.2 pencils and a good eraser to use during the test. Otherwise, you’ll want to have a computer or laptop you can access the online test on. Pack a water bottle and a snack (*in a clear plastic bag). It’s a long test, so you’ll want to be hydrated and energized. On that note, don’t forget to get enough sleep the night before, and eat a nutritious breakfast in the morning!

  1. Losing Track of Time

With the pressures of test day on your mind, it can be easy to lose track of time. Make sure to follow your time-management strategy, tackling easy questions first, then more difficult questions if time allows. Use the wall clock (or the timer on your testing platform, if applicable) to keep track of the remaining time on each section.

  1. Misreading Directions

Make sure that you read the directions carefully for each section, and for each question. Don’t assume that you know all the question types already—close reading ensures that you know exactly what each question is asking you to do.

  1. Not Showing Your Work

Don’t forget to use your scratch paper! For the essay, creating an outline before you start writing will help you organize your thoughts and craft a well-structured essay. For math problems, showing your work helps you avoid simple errors. Writing down as much of your process as possible will help you to succeed across all sections.

Get started with or practice today!

Get started with your test prep today!

Originally published on September 12, 2018. Updated on January 30, 2026.Ěý

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]]> Parent’s Guide to Private High Schools: Three Big Questions /blog/parent-guide-to-private-high-schools-three-questions-to-help-you-decide/ Sat, 10 Jan 2026 06:02:00 +0000 /?p=3892 Taking the ISEE or SSAT test is only one step in preparing to apply to private high schools. Making a list of schools to apply to can be nearly as daunting as taking a test. Here are three important questions to ask yourself as you get started.

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Taking the ISEE or SSAT is only one step in the private high school application process. Making a list of schools you’d like to apply to can be nearly as daunting as taking an important test. We’ve gathered intel from parents who’ve used 91ÁÔĆć in their admissions journey, and concluded that there are three resounding questions that parents prioritize when researching schools. Ask yourself the following as you get started on your application journey: .

1. What is the school’s academic track record?
Note the school averages for SAT and ACT scores over the last several years, as well as how many students are recognized with National Merit. Ask if there are any accelerated learning or AP classes offered, and what level of participation there is in these programs. Find out where alumni have attended college, to see if the school’s academic programs yield proven results.

2. Which extracurricular programs does the school offer?
Based on your student’s interests and skills, learn what programs the school offers in the arts, athletics, student government, etc. Make sure that the school values a range of interests, rather than focusing on one type of program, and takes a holistic approach to extracurricular activities.

3. How much support will your student receive?
Most importantly, find out what kind of relationships are built between the teachers and students at the schools. Make sure that the teacher/student ratio is low, and that the school fosters strong relationships between the faculty and students. Don’t forget, also, to check in on how the students treat one another. Do the students seem positive, comfortable, and excited about learning? A quality school will create a positive environment that will nurture your child and teach them to value their learning as much as you do.

Start preparing today!

HSPT
Webinars

Originally published on May 15, 2018. Updated on January 9, 2026.

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]]> How to prepare for the SSAT or ISEE with just one week /blog/preparing-isee-ssat-one-week/ Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:47:00 +0000 /?p=3160 If you’re trying to get ready for the ISEE or SSAT in a week or less, keep your study plan as simple as possible.

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If your scheduled test is only days away, it’s imperative to keep your study plan as simple as possible. You won’t be able to memorize hundreds of vocabulary words or master new math concepts in such a short period of time, but you can make meaningful progress by focusing on general test-prep strategies and techniques.Ěý

4 Smart Tips for Last-Minute Test Prep:Ěý

  1. Take a Full-Length Practice Test (or Two!)

The most valuable thing that you can do right now is take a timed, full-length or . This will:

  • Introduce you to the test’s format and pacing
  • Expose you to the sections and question types you’ll encounter
  • Help you to pinpoint focus areasĚý

If time allows, try to take a second practice test to review any previous mistakes and reinforce key concepts.

  1. Practice General Test-Taking Strategies

Even with limited time, learning some general, high-impact test-taking strategies can greatly improve your performance.

  • Time management: Plan and control how long you spend per section and per question.Ěý
  • Process of elimination: Rule out wrong answers quickly.
  • Educated guessing: If you don’t know it, don’t panic. Make your best guess and move on.Ěý
  1. Get Organized in Advance

Avoid test-day chaos. Prepare everything you need for test day at least the night before:

  • Print your registration or admission ticket.
  • Pack pencils, erasers, snacks, water, and any other supplies that you may need.
  • Review test-day logistics (location, start time, transportation).

Having everything ready to go helps reduce test anxiety and allows you to focus on what really matters.Ěý

  1. Don’t Cram! Do Intentional Review

Rather than overwhelming yourself, focus on reviewing strategies and content for a manageable amount of time each day.Ěý

  • Aim for 30-90 minutes, depending on your stamina.Ěý
  • Review question types and strategies rather than trying to learn all of the content. .
  • Reinforce what you already know and keep your confidence high.

Final Reminder:

The ISEE or SSAT is just one component of your school application. While it’s important, it’s not everything. Smart, strategic prep in your final days leading up to the test will allow you to walk in feeling confident and ready to do your best!

Start preparing today!

Originally published on December 27, 2018. Updated on November 04, 2025.Ěý

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]]> Preparing Your Child for Independent School Interviews /blog/preparing-for-private-school-interviews/ Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:10:00 +0000 /?p=3112 If your child is applying to independent schools, an important factor in their admissions is the interview. Here's how to help them prepare.

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If your child is applying to independent schools, an important factor in their admissions process will be the interview. While each student will have a unique experience with the interview, you can still help them prepare.

  1. Research the School

Of course, you know everything about the schools your family is applying to, but make sure your child knows exactly why they’d be a good fit there. Are there any classes or teachers that they are excited to study with? Are there extracurricular activities they’re looking forward to participating in? What do they connect with in the school’s mission and values? The more specific your student can be about why they are interested in the school, the better!

  1. Practice Effective Communication

Attuned social skills and a mature demeanor will help your child excel at their interview. Talk with them about minimizing filler words like “um” and “like,” and sitting up straight. Have them practice shaking hands, smiling, and making eye contact while speaking. They might feel awkward in the interview, but they only have one chance to make a first impression! Running a mock interview with your student can be a great way to minimize any nervous jitters.Ěý

  1. Be Ready for Anything

Although the questions the interviewer will ask may vary from school to school, there are a few key topics that will come up. These may include:

  • What would you like to accomplish at our school, both academically and through extracurricular activities?
  • Why are you interested in our school specifically?
  • What are your academic strengths and weaknesses?
  • What do you like to do in your free time?
  • What is the last book you read and what did you think of it?
  • What current events have interested you recently?
  • Name a challenge you have faced and explain how you overcame it.

Have your child write brief responses to these questions prior to the interview, so that they have time to think deeply about their responses. Their answers will be most compelling if they include specific examples and concrete evidence from their life. Make sure to steer away from clichés—your child is unique, so make sure they are prepared to talk about their dynamic interests and activities!

  1. Demonstrate a Growth Mindset

Most importantly, make sure that your child demonstrates a willingness to grow and learn during their interview. Schools want to see genuine, thoughtful students who are eager to try new things. Make sure that your child stays positive and open-minded throughout the interview. Encourage them to speak politely and sincerely about the things they care about. Many students have lists of accolades and great grades—a humble, poised, and honest attitude will help your child stand out!

Originally published on December 06, 2018. Updated on November 04, 2025.Ěý

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]]> 5 Educational Podcasts Your Kids Should Be Listening To /blog/5-educational-podcasts-your-kids-should-be-listening-to/ Fri, 06 Jun 2025 23:16:00 +0000 /?p=3365 Students learn best when they absorb information in multiple ways! Have your child take a break from screens and engage their senses by integrating podcasts into their daily routine. The following podcasts are fantastic opportunities to get your child thinking about ideas and topics that can increase their knowledge base and thinking skills!

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Students learn best when they engage with material in a variety of forms. A great way for your child to take a break from screens and visual learning is by integrating podcasts into their daily routine. Podcasts are a fun, enriching way to expand your child’s thinking, engage their senses, build their knowledge base, and sharpen critical skills while on the go or during downtime.Ěý

Here are five educational podcasts that are great for curious young minds:

Best for: Ethical reasoners & eager conversationalists

This fast-paced ethics podcast for kids asks questions, presents dilemmas, and prompts families to talk, debate, and think deeply together. This is a great way to build critical thinking skills.

Best for: Detail-oriented thinkers & future economists

This podcast explores “the hidden side of everything.” Host Stephen J. Dubner explores economics, sports, government, entrepreneurship, and more! Perfect for kids ready to ask “why” and dig deeper.

Best for: Word lovers & extensive readers

This clever podcast dives into the quirks and oddities of the English language, exploring the roots of common words and idioms. The Allusionist makes language learning fun, and as a bonus, prepares students for the verbal sections of the ISEE and SSAT.

Best for: Budding scientists & explorers

Produced by NPR, this hit science podcast brings exciting topics to life. Hosts Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz explore both popular and obscure science topics with humor, wit, and plenty of cultural references. Learn about solar eclipses, 3D printers, the aurora borealis, and more.

Best for: Inquisitive minds & trivia fans

Perfect for kids who always ask “How does that work?” This podcast providesĚý the fascinating history and mechanics behind everyday things, like the grandfather clock, colorblindness, and alternative fuels! Great for curious learners who love knowing everything about everything.Ěý

Bonus Tip: Test prep doesn’t have to mean textbooks and worksheets alone. These podcasts help build vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking–skills that are essential for success on the ISEE, SSAT, ACT, SAT, and HSPT.Ěý

91ÁÔĆć helps students prepare for competitive tests! Check out our diagnostic practice platforms for the , , ACT, SAT, and HSPT.Ěý

Originally published on October 10, 2018. Updated on June 6, 2025.Ěý

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]]> SSAT Essay Topics /blog/ssat-essay-topics/ Fri, 18 Apr 2025 23:52:00 +0000 /?p=3752 For the first section of the SSAT, you will have 25 minutes to produce a sample of your best writing. For the writing sample, you will choose from two prompts: one is a creative prompt in the form of a partial sentence.

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Understanding the SSAT Writing Sample

The first section of the SSAT is the Writing Sample. Students are given 25 minutes to produce a strong piece of writing in response to one of two prompts:Ěý

  • One of the prompt offerings is more creative–it is open-ended in order to inspire storytelling.Ěý
  • The other prompt is analytical, presented as a question that lends itselfĚý to a more traditional, structured essay.

Choose the prompt that feels most interesting and comfortable for you. While this section is not scored, your writing sample is sent to the schools you apply to, so it’s essential to give it your best effort. Many students overlook this section when preparing for the SSAT, but it can make a real difference in how schools consider your application.ĚýĚý

Ěý

The Creative Sample:

If you choose the creative writing prompt, your goal is to write a well structured story. Strong stories include the basic narrative elements: 

  • Introduction
  • Rising action
  • Climax 
  • Resolution 

Make sure that your story has a clear conflict or problem that is well-suited for the short format of the writing sample, and wrap everything up with a satisfying conclusion. Great creative responses also include vivid descriptions, strong characters, and a meaningful lesson or takeaway at the end. 

 

The Analytical Sample:

The analytical essay is your chance to present and support a clear opinion. Similar to essays you’ve written in school, it should include:ĚýĚý

  • An introduction that presents your topic and explains its importance
  • Two to three body paragraphs with specific examples that support your main idea
  • A conclusion that restates your main points and offers new insight, such as how the topic might influence your future decisions or actionsĚý

Choose a topic that connects with your experiences and interests. If you’re inspired and personally connected to the subject, you’ll write more passionately and persuasively.

Tips for Success:

1. Plan It Out

Take a few minutes at the start to outline your story or essay. A little planning will help you stay focused and organized, leading to a stronger final product.

2. Check Your Work

Save time at the end to revise and proofread. Look out for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. If you are taking the exam in-person on paper, make sure your handwriting is neat and legible. Clear, polished writing makes a big difference.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

You won’t write a masterpiece on your first try, so practice regularly! Use official SSAT prompts and time yourself to get used to the 25-minute format. Practicing both creative and analytical responses can help you discover your strengths and improve your confidence.Ěý

Ěý

The official SSAT website offers for you to use. Practice writing on both creative and analytical topics, and see which type works for you!

Here at 91ÁÔĆć, we offer comprehensive support for the SSAT writing sample. Options available on our platform include:

  • Nine timed sample prompts
  • Additional untimed essay questions,Ěý
  • Personal essay feedback from our expert tutorsĚý
  • A Video Course with step by step guidance on writing structure and strategyĚý

Ready to sharpen your skills and stand out in your application? Let’s get started! .

Start preparing today!

Originally published on November 21, 2017. Updated on April 18, 2025.Ěý

Ěý

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]]> 5 Tips for Managing Your Time on the ISEE & SSAT! /blog/5-critical-tips-for-managing-your-time-on-the-isee-amp-ssat/ Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:29:48 +0000 /?p=3381 Even though the ISEE and SSAT are long tests, the time can fly by! Maybe you struggle with running out of time on the test, or maybe you feel the pressure of the clock and rush through. Either way, here a few simple tips to help yourself manage your time on the test.

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Even though the ISEE and SSAT are lengthy tests, the time can fly by! Whether you frequently run out of time or start to rush through when you feel the pressure of the timer, we’re here to help! Below are a few simple tips to help you manage your time:

1. Don’t spend too much time on difficult questions.

Your goal is to answer as many questions correctly as possible, and because each question is worth the same amount of points, you don’t want to waste valuable time on the hard questions. Answer all the easier questions first, and return to the harder questions at the end with any spare time you may have.

2. Watch the timer (or the clock)!

Whether you’re taking the test on paper or online, there will always be a timing resource available for you to reference. Keep an eye on the time to make sure you’re on track to complete the entire section.Ěý When you take practice tests, they should be timed, so that you can get used to this element of the test!Ěý

3. Take shortcuts when possible.

When solving problems in school, it’s important to show every step and work through problems the long way. But on the ISEE and SSAT, the only person who will see your work is you! On the math section, you can use strategies like guessing, estimating, working backwards from the answer choices, and plugging in numbers to save yourself time.Ěý

4. Save a couple minutes at the end for review.

At the end of each section, make sure you leave yourself enough time to review any questions you left blank. If you still don’t know the answer, make your best, educated guess.

5. Practice time management regularly.

The best way to improve your time management is to take timed practice tests. Take timed tests (or test sections) until you’re consistently completing them before the time runs out. Getting used to the time limitation is half the battle with the ISEE and SSAT. Mastering time management will ease your stress level on test day and ensure that you maximize your score!

Start preparing today!

Originally published on September 27, 2018. Updated on January 13, 2025.

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