SSAT Upper Level Verbal

A comprehensive guide to mastering the verbal section of the SSAT Upper Level, focusing on vocabulary, analogies, and reading comprehension skills.

Building a Strong VocabularyMastering AnalogiesReading Comprehension Skills
Advanced Vocabulary StrategiesComplex Analogy RelationshipsCritical Reading and Inference
Applying Vocabulary in Everyday LifeAnalogies in Problem SolvingReading Comprehension in Real-World Contexts
Time Management on the Verbal SectionElimination and Guessing Techniques
Building a Strong Vo...Mastering AnalogiesReading Comprehensio...Advanced Vocabulary ...Complex Analogy Rela...Critical Reading and...Applying Vocabulary ...Analogies in Problem...Reading Comprehensio...Time Management on t...Elimination and Gues...
Advanced Topics

Advanced Vocabulary Strategies

Tackling Tricky Words

Some SSAT words are rare or have multiple meanings. When you see a tough word, use context clues and break it into parts (prefix, root, suffix) to guess the meaning.

Word Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes

  • Prefixes: Un-, pre-, re-
  • Roots: Bio (life), geo (earth)
  • Suffixes: -ology (study of), -ist (one who)

Recognizing these parts helps unlock the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Synonyms and Nuance

Some words are close in meaning but have subtle differences. Practice using new words in sentences to understand their exact meanings.

Application in Real Life

Advanced vocabulary improves your writing, debate skills, and professional communication.

Examples

  • Understanding 'benevolent' by identifying 'bene-' (good) and '-vol' (wish).

  • Guessing 'geology' is the study of earth because 'geo' means earth and '-logy' means study of.

In a Nutshell

Master tricky vocabulary by learning word parts and using context.

Key Terms

Prefix
A group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning.
Root
The main part of a word that gives it its core meaning.
Suffix
A group of letters added to the end of a word to alter its meaning.
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Complex Analogy Relationships