Brooklyn Letters IconBrooklyn Letters

1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn

4.9 56 reviews

  • Avatar Emily Matles ★★★★★ a week ago
    We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
    ~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old
  • Avatar Natalie Levon ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
  • Avatar T Ainsley ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
  • Avatar Jackie Vasquez ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Excellent services, caring therapists.
  • Avatar Lil Amatore ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
  • Avatar Colin Peters ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
  • Avatar Heather Liljengren ★★★★★ a year ago
    We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
  • Avatar Chris duke Fields ★★★★★ a month ago
    The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
  • Avatar Nikhil Jaisinghani ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
  • Avatar Linda Parsley ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
  • Avatar Amanda Clay Mackin ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
  • Avatar Pete Peters ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
    Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
    Thanks to both for a job well done...
  • Avatar Brigid Bower ★★★★★ 11 months ago
    Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
  • Avatar Larry Barton ★★★★★ a year ago
    Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
  • Avatar Megan Haller ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
  • Avatar Megan Magsam ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
  • Avatar Collins Youngblood ★★★★★ a year ago
    Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
  • Avatar kanu patel ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
    Kanu Patel
  • Avatar Liz Jones ★★★★ 2 years ago
    We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
  • Avatar S CL ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
  • Avatar Nicole May ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
  • Avatar Gillian Davidoff ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
  • Avatar carolina luttmann ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
  • Avatar Eric Fingerman ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
  • Avatar Susan Wong ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
  • Avatar Christine Gennetti ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
    I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them.
  • Avatar Fabiola FITZPATRICK ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
  • Avatar Jude Eugene ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
  • Avatar Janice Eidus ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
  • A Google User ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Fara Jones ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
  • Avatar Frances Simpson ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Mary Jean Babic ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Nina Herman ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
  • Avatar Frances ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Michael Birnbaum ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
  • Avatar Monica Alzate ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.

Math Tutors

BEST 1:1 ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS TEST PREP TUTORING FOR NEURODIVERGENT STUDENTS

Best 1:1 English Language Arts Test Prep Tutoring for Neurodivergent Students | FREE CONSULTATIONS | MEET-AND-GREETS WITH OUR STAFF

english language arts test prep

Themba Tutors: Trust and Excellence in English Language Arts Test Prep Tutoring Services for Neurodivergent Students

Since 2012, Themba Tutors has stayed true to its Swahili name, meaning “trust,” by offering outstanding private tutoring and coaching services both in-person and online. We emphasize creating engaging lessons and personalized assessments supported by a team of dedicated professionals passionate about making a difference.

Our skilled English Language Arts test prep tutors help students improve their time management and test-taking skills, leading to higher test scores. We offer flexible scheduling options, including in-person, online, and hybrid test prep programs. Our expert English Language Arts test prep tutors cover all subjects, and our extensive practice tests help students hone their skills. Through personalized one-on-one learning experiences, we provide real-time feedback and valuable insights, fostering both academic and personal growth.

We specialize in comprehensive English Language Arts (ELA) test preparation, focusing on all key areas, such as reading comprehension, writing, grammar, and vocabulary. Our customized approach ensures students achieve proficiency in ELA. Additionally, we offer free practice tests for students to complete at home, providing thorough preparation.

English Language Arts Test Prep Customized for Neurodivergent Students

Standardized tests may be uniform, but students, particularly those who are neurodivergent or have learning differences, face unique challenges when preparing for English Language Arts (ELA) tests. The struggles include reading fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary, making it hard to understand and express ideas. Writing is challenging due to difficulties with grammar, syntax, and spelling. Working memory and executive functioning deficits impact their ability to follow instructions and organize tasks. Listening comprehension issues also affect their ability to follow oral instructions and participate in discussions. Themba Tutors meets these needs with customized ELA prep programs. Our tailored approach adapts to each student’s requirements, offering highly individualized and comprehensive support, especially for neurodiverse learners and those with specific learning and attention challenges.

Certified Specialists: Our experts in learning disabilities and ADHD provide personalized services to cater to each student’s unique needs.

What’s Included:

  • Consultation with Our Accommodations Expert: We evaluate each student’s unique needs and learning style to develop a personalized ELA study plan.
  • 1-on-1 Tutoring: Engage in individualized ELA prep sessions with an experienced instructor working with neurodivergent students.
  • Neurodivergent-Specific Testing/Study Strategies: Implement techniques designed specifically for neurodivergent learners to enhance ELA test performance.
  • Accommodation-Specific Testing/Study Strategies: Learn how to use test accommodations during ELA assessments effectively.
  • Review of Accommodations and Learner Supports: Assess each student’s accommodations and support mechanisms for school and ELA tests.

Ready to take the next step in your academic journey? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and confidently achieve your English Language Arts test prep goals!

We Travel To You!

english language arts test prep

We travel to you and offer private English Language Arts (ELA) test prep tutoring throughout the NYC Metro Area. Are you looking for an English Language Arts test prep tutoring in a neighborhood other than NYC? Explore our locations for more options.

Here’s How We Can Help

  • Interactive Lessons: Our engaging, hands-on sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each learner.
  • Customized Assessments: We provide personalized evaluations that identify strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Practice Retrieval: Our techniques are designed to enhance learning retention through effective reinforcement.
  • Live Goal and Note Sharing: We continuously communicate with parents to foster collaboration and reduce stress.
  • Standards-Aligned Content: Our extensive library includes pre-built assessments aligned with educational standards, including practice tests for state assessments.

Highly Qualified Private English Language Arts Test Prep Tutors and Coaches

  • Advanced Degrees: Over 90% of our tutors hold advanced degrees in specialized education or related fields.
  • Local and Compassionate Staff: We employ skilled, compassionate educators from the local community.

Proven Success and Social Proof

  • Strong Track Record: Successfully helped students from over 100 schools, working with more than 1,000 persons since our inception in 2012.
  • Positive Reviews: Testimonials from our clients highlight our effectiveness.
  • Top Professionals Refer to Us: Many top professionals and schools refer to us, recognizing our expertise and success.

Exceptional Standards and Outcomes

  • Certified Professionals and Special Education: Experts in learning disabilities and ADHD, providing tailored services.
  • Explicit Study Skills Instruction: We explicitly teach study skills to help students develop effective learning strategies.

TESTIMONIALS

Despite the challenges of the year, Alissa’s dedication and resilience kept our learning journey on track, for which we are truly grateful.
She did a nice job communicating feedback with us and contacting the teachers to ensure they were in sync.
I am so thankful it worked out and that we got connected. 

 

-Jana Z      

Giulia is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put much effort into preparing for each session and helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!

 

-Susan W.      

David was very helpful because he showed me new ways to study that I hadn’t even considered and helped me understand how to approach different tests.

 

-Chase A.    

We were very impressed with Anthony’s calmness and resilience in the face of a daunting task: helping our daughter with math! He engaged her in creative and engaging ways to try and get across the challenging concepts of her homework and test prep. He cared and put a lot of effort into working with our 11-year-old.

 

-Emily R.       

At Themba Tutors, we take the time to help students/clients understand their strengths and progress in areas where they need to improve. We offer personalized tools for each of our clients to help them become more aware of their individual needs as they work towards short-term goals. Improving these skills will benefit our students’/clients’ long-term plans.

About Us

english language arts test prep

At Themba Tutors, we specialize in English Language Arts (ELA) test preparation for students with diverse learning needs. Our team includes academic tutors, learning specialists, and executive function coaches who provide tailored ELA guidance. We focus on building strong relationships and offering comprehensive support services. Known for our flexibility, we prioritize a personalized approach to address each student’s unique requirements, ensuring they are prepared and confident on ELA test day.

Comprehensive Free Intake Process for English Language Arts Test Prep

  1. Initial Consultation: Arrange a free call with our intake coordinator to assess your family’s requirements. We will determine your child’s starting ELA score (or offer assessments if unavailable) and identify preferred educational goals and any specific test score requirements.
  2. Report Review: Craig Selinger, our founder and CEO, personally evaluates past reports, English Language Arts scores, psychological assessments, and academic records.
  3. Customized Study Plan: Tailor a study plan aligned with your objectives and timeline and covers all key areas of English Language Arts.
  4. Specialist Matchmaking: Craig assigns your child to one of our ELA specialists and provides their profiles for your review.
  5. Initial Consultations at No Cost: Before commencing sessions, we typically present our top recommendations based on your needs and arrange free online meetings with several English Language Arts test prep tutors/coaches.
  6. Tutor/Coach Selection: Choose a English Language Arts test prep tutor and schedule the first paid session. Payment is required after the initial session.

We are known for our comprehensive intake process that ensures a personalized and effective approach to ELA preparation.

Trust Themba Tutors for superior private tutoring services. Our dedication to excellence and personalized guidance make us the preferred choice for families seeking specialized support.

Building a Team

Themba Tutors began offering coaching and tutoring services in the summer of 2012. Founded by Craig Selinger, an educational specialist and executive function coach with a robust background in educational consulting, Craig’s leadership has been instrumental in developing our thorough and individualized approach. Our team members undergo a rigorous selection process based on referrals and recommendations. Upon assessing your requirements, we carefully match your child with the team member who aligns best with their educational objectives.

DAVID K.
DAVID K.

Masters in Special Education and Trained in Orton-Gillingham

CHRIS M.
CHRIS M.

Master’s in Special Education and Literacy, Bachelor’s in Sociology

English Language Arts Test Prep Tutor
GOUTHAM

Master’s in Data Science

DAVID W.
DAVID W.

Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Educational Leadership

English Language Arts Test Prep Tutor
DERYCKA

Master’s in Special Education

English Language Arts Test Prep Tutor
MOLLY T.

Master’s in Social Studies and Special Education

OCTAVIA
OCTAVIA

Bachelor’s degree in English, currently pursuing a Master’s in Dramaturgy

DR. BARBARA
DR. BARBARA

Ph.D. in History, Maser’s in Music

Craig Selinger’s Accomplishments

Craig Selinger, CEO and owner of Themba Tutors, brings over two decades of professional experience directly assisting students and families and overseeing our team. He is a published author in respected journals and platforms, including the Journal of Brain Research, Momtastic, NYMetro Parents, Healthline, About.com, Psych Central, Tiny Beans, and ADHD Online. Craig has been featured in live interviews on WPIX 11 and Insider. He has lectured at prestigious institutions such as Bard High School Early College (BHSEC), NYU Langone, Mount Sinai Hospital, and the Educational Alliance. He has also been a keynote speaker at the Everyone Reading Conference and the New York City Parents’ Primer Round Table Discussion for Dyslexia. Craig’s leadership and significant contributions have established him as a recognized expert in education and executive function coaching.

At Themba Tutors, you can rely on our commitment to providing the best test preparation and tutoring services for your child, college student, or young professional. Our dedication to excellence and personalized approach ensures that we are the preferred choice for families seeking specialized support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the English Language Arts test?

  • The English Language Arts (ELA) test is a standardized assessment that measures students’ proficiency in reading comprehension, writing, listening, and language conventions. It evaluates their ability to understand and interpret text, write effectively, and use proper grammar and punctuation. Administered across multiple grade levels, the ELA test helps gauge student progress, inform instruction, and assess overall educational outcomes.

Is it required to take the ELA test?

  • Yes, taking the ELA (English Language Arts) test is typically required for students in many states and school districts across the United States. These tests are part of standardized assessment programs designed to evaluate students’ proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and language conventions. They help measure educational progress and ensure students meet the language arts standards at each grade level. Specific requirements can vary, so checking with your child’s school or local education authority for detailed information is best.

Who takes the ELA test?

  • Each spring, students in grades 3-8 take assessments. English Language Learners (ELLs) are exempt for their first year in the U.S. but are required to participate after that. Some students with disabilities, as specified in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP), may take the N.Y. State Alternate Assessments (NYSAA) instead.

What is on the test?

  • The ELA test spans two days and is untimed, including multiple-choice questions based on short passages and open-ended questions based on stories, articles, or poems. It is transitioning from paper to computer-based testing, with grades 5 and 8 testing on computers for the 2023-24 school year.

What is the format of the ELA test?

The format of the ELA (English Language Arts) test typically includes several components designed to assess different language skills:

  • Reading Comprehension: Students read various passages and answer multiple-choice questions, short response questions, and extended response questions to demonstrate their understanding, analysis, and interpretation of the text.
  • Writing: Students must write responses to prompts, including essays, narratives, or informative texts. This section assesses their ability to express ideas clearly, organize their writing, and use proper grammar and mechanics.
  • Language Skills: This part of the test evaluates students’ knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure through multiple-choice questions.

The ELA test measures students’ abilities to read and comprehend texts, develop written responses, and apply language conventions effectively. The results identify students’ strengths and areas for improvement, inform instruction, and measure overall school and district performance.

How is the test scored?

  • The ELA test is scored by licensed and trained NYC teachers, ensuring that no student’s exam is scored by a teacher from their own school. The scoring process follows NY State Education Department and DOE scoring policies.

How are the results reported?

  • Student test scores are converted into a “scale score,” divided into four performance levels. Results can be accessed through the NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) portal. The “My Student” page shows the results, requiring the account to be linked to the child. Resources are available on the NYSCA page, by contacting the child’s school for support, or by creating an account.

How to register for the English Language Arts test?

To register for the English Language Arts (ELA) test in New York, follow these steps:

  1. School Enrollment: The ELA test is typically administered to students enrolled in New York public schools. Ensure your child is enrolled in a New York public school. The school will manage the registration process for state assessments.
  2. Contact School Administration: If your child is already enrolled, contact the school administration to confirm registration details for the ELA test. Schools usually handle the registration for all students required to take the test.
  3. Special Circumstances: If you are homeschooling or need specific accommodations, contact the New York State Education Department or the local school district for guidance on registering your child for the ELA test.
  4. Testing Dates and Preparation: Confirm the testing dates with your school and ensure your child is prepared for the test by reviewing study materials and practicing with sample questions.

Can my child take the ELA test face-to-face or online?

  • In New York, the state is transitioning from paper-based testing to computer-based testing for the English Language Arts (ELA) test. For the 2023-24 school year, students in grades 5 and 8 are required to take the ELA test on a computer. This indicates a move towards more online testing, but it also suggests that other grades may still have the option for paper-based tests.

Are there accommodations for students with disabilities or special needs?

  • In New York, students with disabilities or special needs are provided with accommodations for the ELA test to remove disability-related obstacles. These accommodations include flexible settings, extended time, scheduled breaks, specialized equipment or aids, bilingual glossaries, and alternative test formats such as large print, Braille, or audio. These provisions are determined by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan to ensure fair participation in the testing process.

Can students retake the ELA test?

  • If students do not achieve a passing score on certain state exams, such as the Regents exams, they are allowed to retake them until they pass. This policy applies to various state-administered assessments, including the ELA tests. Schools typically manage the retake process, so students or parents should contact their school administration for specific details regarding retake opportunities and procedures.

How can students prepare for the ELA test?

  • To prepare for the English Language Arts (ELA) test in New York, students should start by understanding the test format, including the types of questions they will encounter. Practicing with released test questions and using study guides can be very helpful. Improving reading comprehension through regular reading and writing practice is essential. Attending school review sessions, staying consistent with homework, and seeking help from teachers when needed will reinforce learning. Developing healthy study habits, such as maintaining a regular study schedule, getting enough sleep, and eating well, will ensure students are in the best condition to succeed on the test. At Themba Tutors, we offer free practice tests for students to complete at home, providing thorough preparation.

Not ready to fill out the form yet? We’re here to make this easy.

📞 (917) 382-8641 | 📲 (917) 382-8641 | ✉ [email protected]


Every coach offers a free 15-minute remote meet-and-greet, so you can get to know them and see if it feels like the right fit. We’re very responsive and easy to communicate with throughout the process. From there, we’ll thoughtfully match you with one or more of our coaches.