Check out my new YouTube channel: Mary Ann, Math & Test Prep Tutor
About Mary Ann, Math & Test Prep Tutor
Care and Experience
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Is your student struggling in algebra or geometry class? Getting more and more discouraged, convinced that math just isn't for them?
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Is your child worried about taking the college entrance exams? Afraid that their ACT or SAT scores won't show what they actually are capable of doing?
I started Mary Ann, Math & Test Prep Tutor to work with just these students. I work with students, meeting them where they are and moving forward so that they can become successful student mathematicians and test takers. Please read on to see how I can help your student.
ABOUT ME
Why Mary Ann, Math & Test Prep Tutor?
I believe the learning process begins with an experienced and friendly professional who takes the time to know something about the student and their goals and perspective. Working one-on-one, face-to-face online with a student lets me help students find ways that they learn best and get to a deeper understanding of the material, whether it is the mysteries of algebra, the challenges of geometry and trig, or the strategies needed to do their best on a timed, high-stakes ACT or SAT test.
I changed careers and became a teacher more than fifteen years ago, earning a Master of Science in Education & Social Policy from Northwestern University. Since then I've worked as a teacher, instructional coach and tutor. As the mother of two adult sons, I bring personal as well as professional experience to my work!
Professional Services
Test Prep and Math Tutoring
Test Prep
Each test is different, but the preparation for the tests involves the same elements:
Content
The content of the test is, of course, a significant part of test prep. This can be a review of material students have learned over the past few years, and/or an introduction to advanced algebra.
Strategies
Strategy is a critical part of test preparation. Students have an advantage when they understand the structure of the test and effective test-taking strategies.
Confidence
Testing can be a high anxiety experience for many teens. Practice, and feedback on challenging questions, can help students to feel more in control of the process. I work with students to find ways that they can be in control of their own comfort level during a test.
Results
After test prep, my students' scores on the ACT have improved by 2 to 10 points with a 5-7 point increase being the most common. Student SAT scores have had similar improvement.
Testimonials
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My kids' future is brighter because you have helped them -- Carol B.
Mary Ann is a wonderful tutor. Not only is she beyond intelligent in math tutoring, but she also gives great advice on how to approach individual problems. She truly believes in her students, and gives good advice on how to be the most comfortable when testing, so students can do their very best. -- A happy test taker
When Josh started high school he found he was not as well prepared for algebra as the kids at his new school. Mary Ann quickly got him up to speed and has been providing some ongoing support throughout the year. Josh is now doing really well, feels confident about the subject matter, and is happy to have been placed in the accelerated geometry class for 10th grade. Thank you Mary Ann!! -- 9th grade mom
Mary Ann helped me to get the ACT score I really needed. She challenged me, and was very patient as we went over practice problems and test tips. You're the best, really! -- High school senior
Standardized tests have never been my son’s strong suit, but after working with Mary Ann he was able to increase his ACT score by 4 points. It really made a difference in the college admissions process. – Satisfied mom of a high school senior
Mary Ann is amazing with my son and has been tutoring him since 8th grade. My son has made tremendous progress with her gentle nudging, guidance and vast knowledge and resources. Mary Ann will willingly take an unconventional approach to get results from my son and he never feels pressured - only adequately challenged. I whole heartedly recommend Mary Ann for any teaching assignment. -- Chitra G
Pricing
Test Prep
A standard 12-session, 24 hour package includes proctoring SAT and ACT baseline tests (if needed), three sessions plus homework on each test subject area, practice writing for an essay test, 2-3 practice tests, scored and reviewed, and all materials. $2400
Customized prep focused on one or two subject areas is also available. Contact for more information.
Math Tutoring
Hourly sessions are $65. Session packages available. Contact for more information .
FAQ
algebra I/II · geometry · trigonometry · pre-calculus ACT/SAT prep
Get in Touch
Join the mailing list here.
Questions, comments or requests? Feel free to reach out, I’d love to hear from you.
773-988-7476
What is online tutoring? Does it work?
Tutoring online is not so different from tutoring in person. I see and hear my students in real time, while we use a virtual whiteboard to work on problems together. Actually my first online students were more comfortable with working online than I was! In my experience it has been as effective as in person tutoring -- but without a relative stranger at your dining room table once a week. I'll be adding a video soon to demonstrate how online tutoring works.
Why do test prep?
I know students who have no trouble getting high scores on standardized tests. They don't need test prep.
But students who prefer projects and essay questions to demonstrate their learning can sometimes struggle with timed, multiple-choice tests. Some students have anxiety concerning testing which gets in the way of doing their best work. Some students do pretty well, but want to go to a school that requires a very high score. These are just some of the students who benefit from test prep.
What if my student just isn't a math person?
As a math teacher, I know from experience that, while math may not be everyone's favorite subject, students can improve their understanding of math, and their scores and grades. Sometimes a student does well in algebra, but has trouble understanding geometry. Others get the geometry, but are challenged by algebra's variables and functions. Often, struggling students just need an opportunity to go over a concept at a slower pace than the classroom allows. I give students the time and space to learn the material and make it their own.