Test Prep: ISEE/SSAT/HSPT/Shsat 2 Hour Class

1) Primarily I teach elementary and middle school math--including Algebra 1. 
When teaching reading and writing courses, students read and write about subjects that interest them.
My test prep classes are designed to support the math and verbal sections of lower level and middle level ISEE and other such standard tests. What are the key tips to taking these timed tests?

2) Professionally, since 2004, I have been teaching in public schools. Before that, I taught business and marketing courses at various colleges and universities including the University of Washington.  I have been tutoring elementary, middle and high school students since 2016 in math, writing, and reading comprehension.

3) My headline reveals much of my teaching philosophy.  Learning should be an experience to raise a student's self-esteem.  
Creating a safe environment so a student wants to participate in the learning is the first step.  Each of my classes begins with "What do you know already about this subject?" or "What do you want to be able to do better?" Students bring knowledge.  It may not be accurate knowledge but having each student share what she or he knows or wants is the best starting point for a lesson. Sometimes, a student may not want to share anything at first. In my experience, watching other students share usually sets the stage for the reluctant student to take a risk--by guessing or asking a question--eventually. 
I set the stage for learning in a safe environment and then customize the lesson to begin where the students' level of knowledge is and/or what they identify as their priorities. 
Lastly, there are lots of practice problems and questions provided to maintain a high level of student interaction and participation. 
This is my recipe for a productive class lesson, a positive learning experience, and heightened level of self-esteem for each student.

4) Students and I have a lot of fun when I ask THEM to make up test problems/questions for ME to answer. The students check my answers.  Of course, they have to know the correct answers to do this. When I get one wrong, some are surprised; others are shocked.  Did I get that question wrong on purpose or accidentally? Also, I like to create crossword puzzles about Harry Potter!