Academies of Loudoun & TJ Prep Program

Comprehensive Preparation for 8th Graders Aspiring for AOS, AET, and TJHSST

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Academies of Loudoun (AOS/AET) Prep

Our Academies of Loudoun (AOS/AET) Prep Program begins in 7th grade to prepare students for the entrance exams held in October/November of 8th grade for the Academy of Science (AOS) and Academy of Engineering and Technology (AET). Our primary focus is to enhance students’ general problem-solving skills and reading and writing abilities. While test formats may evolve, these foundational skills are critical for success in any assessment and are invaluable for high school and beyond. Although we cannot guarantee specific results, our preparation significantly improves a student’s ability to excel academically and perform better in future challenges.

Thomas Jefferson High School (TJHSST) Prep

Our TJ Prep Program starts in 7th grade to prepare students for the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) entrance process, with key assessments in February of 8th grade. In addition to the core three-phase curriculum shared with AOS/AET prep, TJ aspirants benefit from an exclusive Phase 4, focusing on TJ-specific components such as the Student Information Sheet (SIS) and Problem-Solving Essay. We emphasize developing strong problem-solving, reading, and writing skills to prepare students not only for the TJHSST exam but also for long-term academic success. While results cannot be guaranteed, our program equips students with skills to thrive in high school and beyond.

Phases of Preparation

Our TJ Prep Program starts in 7th grade to prepare students for the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) entrance process, with key assessments in February of 8th grade. In addition to the core three-phase curriculum shared with AOS/AET prep, TJ aspirants benefit from an exclusive Phase 4, focusing on TJ-specific components such as the Student Information Sheet (SIS) and Problem-Solving Essay. We emphasize developing strong problem-solving, reading, and writing skills to prepare students not only for the TJHSST exam but also for long-term academic success. While results cannot be guaranteed, our program equips students with skills to thrive in high school and beyond.

Phases 1, 2, and 3 are common for both Academies of Loudoun (AOS/AET) and TJHSST Prep Programs. The program spans from September of 7th grade to early November of 8th grade, with classes held once a week during the school year (September to May) and twice a week from June to November. TJ students continue with an additional Phase 4 from November to January.

Phase 1: Foundational Algebra and English Skills (September – February)

Phase 1 focuses on building a strong foundation in algebra and English, critical for both AOS/AET and TJ exams.

  • Math: In-depth exploration of basic and advanced algebra concepts, including linear equations, inequalities, polynomials, and functions. Students master problem-solving techniques through weekly practice.
  • English: Comprehensive instruction in grammar rules, sentence structures, and writing styles (narrative, descriptive, expository, and persuasive). Reading strategies are introduced to enhance comprehension of math, science, and English prompts.
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Phase 2: Advanced Problem Solving and Critical Thinking (March – August)

Phase 2 shifts to advanced skills, emphasizing arithmetic, out-of-the-box thinking, and STEM-focused preparation, with an introduction to TJHSST-specific components.

  • Math: Focus on arithmetic, problem-solving strategies, and advanced algebra applications. Students develop critical thinking, logical reasoning, and STEM thinking skills through challenging problems.
  • English: Continued practice in writing and reading comprehension, with weekly assignments to refine skills. Students tackle complex prompts to prepare for essay and problem-solving sections.
  • TJHSST Prep: Introduction to the Student Information Sheet (SIS) with practice on short-answer questions about interest in STEM, problem-solving experiences, leadership, and teamwork. Initial exposure to Problem-Solving Essay prompts to develop critical thinking, creativity, and reasoning skills.
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Phase 3: Mock Testing and Revisions (September – November)

Phase 3 prepares students for the real test environment through rigorous mock testing and targeted revisions, with a focus on Academies of Loudoun exams in September/October and continued TJHSST preparation.

  • Math & English: Students complete 6-8 mock tests replicating the AOS/AET or TJ exam format. Detailed feedback and revisions help address weaknesses and build confidence.
  • Focus: Time management, test-taking strategies, and refining problem-solving and writing skills under exam conditions, with emphasis on AOS/AET exams in September/October.
  • TJHSST Prep: Continued practice with Student Information Sheet (SIS) short-answer questions and Problem-Solving Essay prompts, focusing on reasoning, creativity, and clarity to prepare for the February TJHSST assessment.
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Phase 4: TJ-Specific Preparation (November – January)

Exclusive to TJ aspirants, Phase 4 places significant emphasis on the unique components of the TJHSST admissions process, building on the foundational work from Phases 2 and 3.

  • Student Information Sheet (SIS): Intensive practice with short-answer questions about interest in STEM, problem-solving experiences, leadership, and teamwork, refining responses to demonstrate clarity and passion.
  • Problem-Solving Essay: Focused training on responding to open-ended prompts that test critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, emphasizing reasoning over mere content knowledge.
  • Format: One class per week, designed to polish skills and align with TJ’s holistic evaluation criteria for the February assessment.
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Program Intakes

Our program offers multiple entry points to accommodate students’ schedules and skill levels:

  • Year-Long Program (September Start, 14 Months): Begins in Phase 1, ideal for comprehensive preparation. Over 50% of year-long students gain admission to AOS, AET, or TJ.
  • Mid-Year Intake (March Start, 8 Months): For students with strong algebra and fundamental skills, starting in Phase 2 and continuing through Phase 3 (and Phase 4 for TJ).
  • Summer Intake (June Start, 5 Months): An intensive program that reviews Phase 1 fundamentals in one month, then proceeds with Phases 2 and 3 (and Phase 4 for TJ).

Fee Structure

Why Choose Our Program?

With a proven track record, our program offers:

  • Over 50% success rate for year-long students, with many securing admission to AOS, AET, or TJ.
  • Flexible intakes to accommodate different skill levels and schedules.
  • Comprehensive curriculum covering math, English, and critical thinking skills.
  • Experienced instructors and a structured approach to ensure measurable progress.
  • Focus on lifelong problem-solving, reading, and writing skills that benefit students beyond the entrance exams.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Enroll today to give your child the best chance at succeeding in the Academies of Loudoun or TJHSST entrance exams and beyond!

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