Writing a Better Pursuasive Essay for the SAT or ACT: Having Examples Ready

Standardized test essays are short in both time and length.  Nonetheless, to earn a good score your essay must be well-structured and well thought out, and this, in turn, requires that you be prepared to discuss a subject effectively without any advance notice.  The key to this preparation is having good examples in hand to support your argument.  This article will show you how to be ready for ANY essay prompt you may face.

5 Things to Look For in a Great 21st Century School

Science and technology are basic parts of modern life. In the 21^st century study of the “STEM” [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] fields is more important than ever, and not just for future scientists and engineers; it is essential for every student.  Unfortunately, while more and more students go to college, fewer and fewer graduate with degrees in STEM areas.  American schools at every level need to promote STEM if the US is to remain competitive in the world.

Tutor Tips - Turn Your Math Lesson Plans Up-Side Down

Should you turn your Math lesson plans ‘upside down’?  Research suggests that it might be a good idea.  This article reviews findings from a study of 231 eighth grade math lessons worldwide and their implications for lesson planning.

Literary Analysis - Step 4 Example – The Lady or the Tiger?

To analyze literature it is essential to study not just the storyline but also the characters that populate and create the story.  Here is a look at the characters in Frank R. Stockton’s classic short story, The Lady or the Tiger?

Literary Analysis Step 4 – Focus on Characterization

To analyze literature it is essential to study not just the storyline but also the characters that populate and create the story.  Think of any work of literature and you think of characters: likeable, hateful, beautiful, important, but above all, memorable, if the work itself is to be remembered.  In this article you will find an overview of the literary ‘types’ of characters and the purposes they serve in a story.  So much of what we can learn about a story comes from ‘listening’ to the characters, so don’t short-change this Focus.