Trinity Episcopal School ISEE Class
OVERVIEW
The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with the format, grading policies, and testing
strategies for the Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE). Instructors will introduce
various approaches to different question types included in the four multiple choice question
sections (Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Mathematics
Achievement), as well as explain suggested guidelines for writing an effective essay. The goals
for the course include improving vocabulary, filling in any gaps in math knowledge and
techniques that are tested by the exam but not thoroughly mastered by the students, lessening
test anxiety and improving academic self-confidence, and enhancing the fundamental desire to
learn. In the interest of a holistic and thorough approach to preparation, Shari Fish, of Shari Fish
Wellness, will also present a seminar on managing test anxiety through mindfulness.
INSTRUCTORS
Krista Kyle, Tutor, Advantage Testing Austin
Signe Fourmy, Tutor, Advantage Testing Austin
MATERIALS
Materials will include a copy of What to Expect on the ISEE, two practice tests, and Advantage
Testing’s own handouts covering various topics to be addressed during the course for each
student.
COST
The course cost is $280.00 payable to Trinity Episcopal School to be paid with online registration
form. Forms are available on the parent portal as well as in the High School Placement Office.
This fee includes all sessions and materials for the Fall 2013 course.
SCHEDULE
Saturday, September 07, 9:00am – 12:00pm
DIAGNOSTIC TEST
Saturday, October 19, 9:00 – 11:15am
SESSION 4
Saturday, September 14, 9:00 – 11:15am
SESSION 1
Saturday, October 26, 9:00 – 11:15am
SESSION 5
Saturday, September 21, 9:00 – 11:15am
SESSION 2
Saturday, November 2, 9:00 – 11:15am
SESSION 6
Saturday, September 28, 9:00 – 11:15am
Tuesday, November 5, 9:50 – 10:42am
SHARI FISH, WELLNESS SEMINAR
SESSION 3
Saturday, November 9, 9:00am – 12:00pm
FINAL PRACTICE TEST
SYLLABUS
NOTE: The “Verbal” portion of each session will cover topics related to both the Verbal Reasoning and
Reading Comprehension sections of the ISEE; the “Math” portion of each session will cover topics related
to both the Quantitative Reasoning and Mathematics Achievement sections of the ISEE.
Session 1
Verbal: Test Introduction; Vocabulary
•
Address initial student questions and concerns, general test pacing
•
Introduce brief vocabulary list of important words to know
•
Discuss strategies for absorbing new vocabulary, including:
•
Mnemonic devices
•
Mental pictures
•
Contexts
•
Root words
•
Prefixes/suffixes
•
Connotative and denotative meanings
Math: Test Introduction; Definitions and Number Properties
•
Address initial student questions and concerns, general test pacing
•
Explain specific strategies for Column A/Column B questions
•
Review definitions of important math terms
•
Recall properties of positive, negative, even, odd, and prime numbers
•
Review factors, multiples, and remainders
Session 2
Verbal: Synonyms
•
Review vocabulary list of important words to know
•
Compare synonyms vs. antonyms
•
Introduce importance of tone within words
•
Explain how to anticipate the answer
•
Emphasize the process of elimination
•
Practice synonym strategies
Math: Problem Simplification, Translation and Percents
•
Stress the importance of simplifying first and attacking problems one step at a time
•
Explain concept of translation from English language to math language
•
Emphasize significance of translation within percent problems
•
Establish difference between percents and amounts
Session 3
Verbal: Sentence Completions
•
Briefly review synonym questions
•
Highlight importance of using context, with particular focus on:
•
•
Reverse words (but, however, although, etc.)
•
Forward words (since, because, therefore, etc.)
Practice anticipating the answer
Math: Equations, Inequalities, Plugging In Numbers, Fractions, and Averages
•
Work out various techniques for manipulating algebraic equations and inequalities
•
Demonstrate the ease of plugging in numbers
•
Review manipulation of fractions and fraction/decimal conversions
•
Drill on ratios, proportions, and the necessity for cross-multiplication
•
Discuss how one simple step might make average questions much easier
Session 4
Verbal: Reading Comprehension, Part I
•
Survey previous knowledge to create framework into which new knowledge can be inserted
•
Practice recognition of structure, by means of:
•
Paragraph mapping
•
Interactive group mapping of the whole passage
•
Discuss how to identify the main idea/purpose/tone of the passage
•
Distinguish among different literary genres and styles (e.g., prose, persuasive, explanatory)
Math: Linear Equation Graphs, The Coordinate System, and Line Relationships
•
Review the format of a linear equation and its corresponding graph
•
Confirm understanding of the coordinate system and its qualities
•
Reassess comprehension of line relationships, with particular regard to parallel lines,
perpendicular lines, and angles
Session 5
Verbal: Reading Comprehension, Part II
•
Define an inference with specific contrast between evidence within the passage and outside
knowledge of the passage topic, using:
•
Linking
•
Line references
•
Encourage refinement of vocabulary skills using contextual clues for guidance
•
Repeat group breakdown of the passage to reinforce all concepts, including mapping, linking,
tone, genres, and others
Math: Basics of Geometry
•
Outline the major differences among perimeter, area, surface area, and volume
•
Present the triangle and circle checklists of essential information
•
Break down the intimidating shaded region questions into a simple step-by-step process
Session 6
Class 1: Essay Strategies
•
Outline and explain the four “Be”s behind a solid essay:
•
Be confident
•
Be organized
•
Be specific
•
Be honest
•
Discuss what not to worry about when crafting an essay in a timed environment
•
Practice brainstorming for topics, experiences, and self-evaluations
Class 2: General Test-Taking Strategies
•
Emphasize the importance of sleep, food, and clothing
•
Confirm proper habits for answer alignment and filling in bubbles
•
Reiterate the necessity for breaks and stretches
ISEE Test: Saturday, November 16, 2013
9:00 am at Trinity