Everything You Need to Know About SSAT Math Test

Studying for the SSAT Math, or as it’s also known, the Quantitative section, the exam can seem like an intimidating task. With all the complex formulas and computations included in this challenging test, it’s essential to do as much practice beforehand as possible.

A great way to prep is by taking some practice tests. Not only will they give you an idea of what to expect on the actual exam day, but also help identify any problem areas that need extra attention when it comes time for review.

This post provides some helpful tips on how to get your best score on the SSAT math section, including the most useful method, online practice tests.

What Is The SSAT Test?

The Secondary School Admissions Test helps to determine a student’s academic readiness when applying to a private or independent school.

The SSAT provides administrators with an impartial way of evaluating applicants by objectively ranking their performance relative to other candidates. The SSAT offers schools the opportunity to assess the applicant’s verbal, quantitative, and reading skills in the context of a standardized test.

For those looking to refine their test-taking strategies and maximize their score on the SSAT, many further resources are available online such as practice tests, tutorials, and study guides.

By relying on fair metrics such as SSAT scores as part of their admission criteria, private and independent schools ensure that qualified applicants are evaluated regardless of experience or background.

SSAT Math Test: What You Need To Know

SSAT exam preparation can be a tricky endeavor, and it must take into consideration the widely differing math classes some schools offer. While it might appear math courses with fewer topics would make SSAT test-taking more challenging, thorough SSAT upper level math preparation will account for this difference.

This means being aware of the material mainly included in SSAT math tests is a key factor to success.

Depending on what course content one has gone through before taking the SSAT examination, one may need to cover additional arithmetic topics like fractions, decimals, statistics, and probability. Knowledge of these basic concepts will greatly aid SSAT test takers, regardless of any disparity between school curriculums.

The SSAT Quantitative Section Breakdown

As you prepare for the SSAT Upper Level Math Test, it is important to have a clear understanding of the sections you will face. After the writing sample, there is a Quantitative 1 section with 25 multiple-choice questions that must be answered within 30 minutes.

No calculators are allowed on this portion; instead, you will be tested on your ability to solve problems without one. Following the Verbal section at the end of the test is Quantitative 2, which also consists of 25 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes.

The combined scores of both sections make up your overall SSAT Upper Level Math score. Make sure you keep track of time and pay attention to each question so you can achieve your best score on this assessment!

Levels of SSAT Math Test Available

This test consists of three levels – the Elementary Level, Middle Level, and Upper Level – each based on the level of schooling that the student has achieved before application.

These tests are designed to measure achievement in core subject areas and give admissions officers a comprehensive view of applicants’ abilities as well as their suitability for the chosen institution.

With its detailed framework, the Secondary School Admissions Test is an important step for students hoping to gain acceptance into high-achieving secondary schools.

Depending on the level of the SSAT that a student chooses to take, the content within the Quantitative section will scale accordingly. For example, an 8th grader who takes a Middle Level SSAT can expect material appropriate for their current math curriculum.

However, a 12th grader who takes an Upper Level SSAT will receive problems that reflect topics taught in a high school setting.

Across all sections of the SSAT, from Verbal Reasoning to Reading Comprehension, grade-specific content allows for a fair and effective way for students to showcase their abilities.

Elementary Level SSAT Math

The SSAT Elementary Level Quantitative section is designed to test their proficiency with basic concepts of 3rd and 4th-grade mathematics topics in only half an hour. Questions focus on developing the ability to identify patterns, build problem-solving skills, and perform basic mathematical calculations.

While students in either grade can likely complete a majority of the questions without too much difficulty, some questions may be challenging due to the speedy nature of the test.

As such, students need to practice at home for this section so that they can improve their accuracy and speed when answering questions.

Middle & Upper Level Math

The math section on the SSAT Middle and Upper Level tests student understanding of various mathematical concepts such as geometry, algebra, and other quantitative topics. It consists of 50 questions that are split into two parts, allocated 25 questions per 30 minutes each.

SSAT math questions can vary in complexity and format of the question. Each question contains mathematical terms indicating a necessary operation that needs to be performed. However, not all questions are written as such. Other questions are formatted as word problems which require additional analysis to determine what operation is required.

The difficult questions often involve multiple operations and varying levels of thinking, including abstract and deductive logic. Although challenging, learning how to understand and interpret word problems is an important part of success in the math section of the SSAT.

Although some questions may seem complicated due to the mathematical language used, a closer examination could give clues about the operations necessary for solving them.

A few questions may not be expressed directly in math functions but can still be solved by looking closely at the information provided and deriving which operations are needed to solve the question. With strategic reading and comprehension, students can identify which methods are necessary.

What Is Covered?

Pre-Algebra & Algebra

Pre-algebra usually begins in elementary school, while algebra may be introduced in middle or high school, depending on the student’s level of skill.

The focus of pre-algebra in the elementary level test is problem-solving and application while algebra in the middle and upper levels contains more theoretical principles that usually require some abstract thinking.

Common topics studied within pre-algebra include whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios, and inequalities; meanwhile, algebra covers linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, functions, matrices, and sequences.

Computation & Data Analysis

The ability of a student to effectively comprehend the facts and figures to identify the underlying problems. It requires one to analyze data with precision, apply mathematical principles and solve equations to draw meaningful conclusions.

Geometry

Test takers will need to be able to calculate the area and circumference of a circle area, determine the area and perimeter of a polygon, calculate the volume of a cube, cylinder, or box, solve for the Pythagorean theorem, identify the properties of isosceles and equilateral triangles, understand parallel and perpendicular lines in two-dimensional space, be familiar with coordinate geometry such as plotting points on an axis, as well as understanding slope when dealing with linear equations.

Upper Level SSAT test questions may cover any number of elements related to these topics so it takes focus and preparation to master this area.

Number Sense & Measurement

Number sense and measurement is an important analytical skills in mathematics that may be formed at a young age. It is the ability to comprehend, relate to, and link numbers, allowing individuals to communicate effectively about numbers.

Number Concepts & Conversion

It allows one to recognize the relationships that exist among numbers, as well as understand simple calculations and solve a variety of problems. Practicing helps people develop number sense, which is a vital part of higher math like algebra and trigonometry.

Furthermore, having strong number skills can promote problem-solving capabilities that go beyond the traditional recognition of mathematical patterns.

Statistics and Probability

The ability to determine estimated values and calculate averages to identify trends, draw conclusions, and even make predictions based on the information provided. Using tables, graphs, and other visual representations to explain patterns, identify irregularities and discover new insights.

How To Prepare For The SSAT Math Test

Preparing for a test like the SSAT can be incredibly stressful, but there are some simple steps to help manage test anxiety and help prepare for the SSAT.

Visit The SSAT Website

One of the first steps you should take is to gather information about the requirements for the SSAT math test. This information can be found on the official SSAT website. You’ll also find important test dates and guidelines and resources such as registration deadlines, score release dates, and a list of test centers.

Whether this is your first time taking an SSAT Upper Level math exam or if it’s been a while since your last attempt, it’s important to visit the website beforehand and ensure you’re up-to-date with everything related to the exam before arriving at your testing location.

Use Study Guides

The best way to make sure you are properly prepared is to get your hands on a good SSAT study guide. Our absolute favorite resource is Test Prep Online, which has specialized SSAT practice tests and resources that are just like the real thing.

You can find practice exams for the SSAT Upper Level, SSAT Middle Level, and SSAT Elementary Level. This essential resource offers an array of helpful information regarding what topics will be examined during testing, as well as insightful tips for how to approach each section. They even have special targeted resources for the quantitative math section.

Managing Test Anxiety

Getting plenty of rest and exercise are key steps to performance success when it comes to taking the SSAT. Adequate sleep helps retain more of what has been learned, while regular physical activity allows for better focus during the exam.

Good nutrition can also aid with alertness, so make sure snacks are readily available beforehand and that a good breakfast is on your plate the morning of the test. Taking a few minutes to meditate or practice deep breathing techniques can be beneficial too.

Start Your Test Preparation Early

It is recommended that you start preparing for the SSAT at least 1 to 3 months in advance, allowing yourself enough time to gain an understanding of test questions, structure, and content. To help make your studying more efficient, consider taking online practice tests from Test Prep Online as part of your study plan.

These free SSAT practice tests from Test Prep Online will help provide insight into areas where additional attention and review are needed to truly help maximize your performance on exam day.

Focus On What You Can Do

Taking the SSAT math test can be daunting, especially when you come across a question you’re struggling to answer. Don’t get discouraged – remember that building your confidence is often the key to successfully tackling difficult problems.

To help in this situation, focus your efforts on answering the easier questions first. This will help to boost your morale and make you more likely to figure out the harder questions later.

It’s also important to remember that focusing too much on one problem is usually counter-productive and will only damage your chances of success. Keeping calm and taking it one step at a time can help you gain the confidence you need to ace any SSAT math exam.

Write Out The Problems

Solving math problems in your head can be difficult and time-consuming, resulting in a reduced chance of getting the correct answer. Writing out each step improves clarity and accuracy, and allows for an easier method of checking work after it is completed.

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own either; the best SSAT Upper Level SSAT math courses provide step-by-step solutions for even the most complex problems so that you can focus on the techniques and understand the process better.

Taking classes and following guided answers should take some of the pressure off, greatly increasing your chances of success.

Make Use Of The Time Allowed

Using all of the time allotted can work in your favor. If you find that you can finish early, instead of leaving the questions blank, take the opportunity to go back and rework some of your answers if allowed.

This gives you an extra chance to see if any other possible solutions may lead to a higher score. In addition, it also helps with pacing for future practice tests because it shows you where you can better utilize your time, focus more on certain areas, or even budget time for upcoming sections.

Also Read : How Long Does The SSAT Test Take?

FAQ

Who Is Eligible?

All students who wish to study at the Independent School are required to pass the test. The annual fee to take the test at domestic testing locations in the United States and Canada includes a fee of $139. The International user is $369. A fee will be charged for late or urgent registration where required.

What Does It Cost To Take The SSAT?

The cost varies depending on which level of the test is taken and when it is taken. If you are sitting the elementary or middle level exam, the cost of registration is $135. At the upper level, the fee is slightly higher at $149.

Keep in mind that certain dates usually carry a high demand, so availability can dwindle quickly. Additionally, extra fees may be incurred for additional score reporting services.

How Is It Scored?

Like the verbal and reading comprehension sections, one point is gained for every correct answer. A quarter point is deducted for every incorrect answer. Unanswered questions do not get deducted from the overall total scaled score.

The score report is divided up into sections, where each section separately covers the range between 500 and 800 for the maximum achievable score.

All these scores are tallied together to come out with an average figure which ranges from the lowest possible score of 1500, up to the highest possible score of 2400.

The SSAT provides a unique scoring system that can make it difficult to interpret. Rather than grading your overall ability, this test is designed to compare your comprehension of the material with those of other students.

Is The SSAT Upper Level Math Test Hard?

It is important to be aware that the questions will get progressively more difficult. The temptation may arise to make random guesses to solve a problem quickly – this should be avoided. For each incorrect answer, ¼ points are deducted from the student’s score, so accuracy is essential for gaining points.

Research has shown that taking time with each problem and trying systematically to solve it will produce much better results than guessing blindly. So when taking the math portion on the SSAT, remember that accuracy is key!

Conclusion

Preparing for the SSAT math section doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By getting some extra practice in, you can set yourself up for success on exam day. Online practice tests are a great way to get more comfortable with the types of questions and computations you’ll see on the test.

They also help identify any problem areas that need extra attention when it comes time for review. Test Prep Online offers full-length online practice tests that mimic the real thing – right down to the timing constraints. That way, you can be confident and prepared come test day.