1:1 Peak Writing

Personalized Writing Programs for Grades 6 and Up

Strong writing skills are essential for academic success. Whether your student needs to build a solid foundation or refine their analytical writing for advanced courses, Summit’s Peak Writing programs provide expert, 1:1 instruction tailored to their needs.

Programs Designed for Growth

  • Peak Fundamental Writing (6 weeks) – Master the foundations of quality essay writing
  • Peak Analytical Writing (8–16 weeks) – Develop advanced analytical writing skills for AP, honors, and college-level courses

Students who master these skills gain a lasting academic advantage, approaching writing with confidence and reducing the stress often associated with complex assignments.

1:1 Peak Writing

Our Peak Writing programs are designed to support the multi-level learning process of basic essay writing and advanced, analytical thinking. We are focused on helping students get to their highest level.

The Right Time to Build Strong Writing Skills

As students enter middle and high school, writing expectations rise—but mastering these skills in a classroom setting can be challenging. Summit’s Peak Fundamental Writing and Peak Analytical Writing programs provide personalized, one-on-one support to help students strengthen their writing abilities with expert guidance.

Flexible, Expert-Led Tutoring

  • Customized 1:1 instruction with a hand-picked tutor
  • 6- or 8-week programs with 90-minute weekly sessions
  • Targeted practice, including an hour of homework per session
  • Convenient online or in-home options to fit your schedule

With personalized coaching, students build confidence and master essential writing skills that will serve them throughout their academic careers.

Peak Fundamental Writing

Designed to help students master the fundamentals of essay writing, this program starts with strengthening reading comprehension and effective written communication.

With expert guidance, students will:

  • Develop a clear understanding of essay structure
  • Learn to craft strong thesis statements and support arguments effectively
  • Build an ideal essay model alongside their tutor
  • Research, plan, and write a well-structured essay on a challenging topic

By the end of the program, students will have the confidence and skills to approach writing assignments with clarity and precision.

Peak Analytical Writing

A rigorous, structured program designed to elevate students’ analytical writing abilities.

With expert guidance, students will:

  • Strengthen active reading and literary analysis skills
  • Learn to craft compelling thesis statements and well-supported arguments
  • Develop structured, insightful essays with clarity and depth
  • Gain confidence in writing analytical essays for AP courses, advanced English, and college-level work

By the end of the program, students will approach complex writing assignments with precision, confidence, and a strong academic foundation.

Expert One-On-One Instruction

Our Peak Writing tutors are experienced educators, many of whom are current or former English teachers. They specialize in engaging students across various age groups, providing clear, actionable feedback to strengthen writing skills. Passionate about their craft, they are dedicated to helping students build confidence and achieve lasting success.

Meet Our Tutors
Get started now
Contact UsBook a Call

Peak Fundamental Writing: Learning Outcomes

  • Sharpen problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
  • Learn key reading strategies essential for strong writing
  • Develop an effective model for structuring essays
  • Improve written communication for clarity and impact
  • Write strong thesis statements and support arguments effectively
  • Strengthen editing and revision skills
  • Craft a well-structured, four-paragraph essay
  • Enhance grammar skills with bonus lessons on parts of speech and sentence structure
  • Build confidence for the demands of high school writing
Syllabus

Peak Analytical Writing: Learning Outcomes

  • Develop analytical techniques for interpreting literature
  • Strengthen close reading skills and inference-making
  • Master multiple annotation methods
  • Build a strong foundation in literary terminology
  • Craft well-supported thesis statements
  • Analyze rhetoric, stories, and essays with depth
  • Construct cohesive, evidence-based analytical arguments
  • Improve editing and revision skills
  • Write a structured, five-paragraph essay with proper citations
  • Gain confidence for advanced English, AP courses, and college-level writing
Syllabus

Meet Some of Our Top Tutors

Aubrey Elson
Aubrey Elson

A Select Tutor since 2020, Aubrey specializes in test prep, AP and academic tutoring in English, US History, Algebra, and Geometry. An adjunct professor, she holds an MFA from Florida Atlantic University and a BA from USC.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, PSAT

AP:  US History

Academic: English, US History, French, Algebra, Geometry, Calculus

Executive Function Coaching

Lily Gordon
Lily Gordon

With a B.A. in Literature from Williams College, Lily tutors SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, as well as Biology, and English. A Select Tutor since 2020, she is passionate about education and creating a supportive learning environment.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

Academic: Biology, English

Lauren Doolon
Lauren Doolon

A Select Tutor since 2012, Lauren specializes in test prep and English tutoring, helping students build confidence with her patient, encouraging approach. She holds a BA from Emerson College and an MFA from Sarah Lawrence.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, PSAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: English Literature, English Language

Academic: English

Kevin Sun
Kevin Sun

A Summit Tutor since 2019, Kevin specializes in SSAT, ISEE, SAT, ACT, AP Biology, and academic tutoring in math, science, English, and Chinese. He tailors his approach to each student’s learning style, creating a supportive, stress-free environment.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, PSAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: Biology

Academic: Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, Trig/Precalculus, Biology, Chemistry, English, Chinese

Tessa Murray, PhD
Tessa Murray, PhD

A Select Tutor since 2015, Tessa specializes in test prep, AP, and academic tutoring in math and science. She holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Aberdeen and conducted postdoctoral research at Boston University.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT,  PSAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: Biology, Chemistry, Calculus AB, Precalculus

Academic: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, Trigonometry, Precalculus

Mike Rogers
Mike Rogers

A Johns Hopkins graduate and Select Tutor since 2016, Mike specializes in test prep and AP/academic math and science tutoring. He helps students build logical reasoning and metacognitive skills with a patient, supportive approach.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, PSAT, ACT

AP: Precalculus, Calculus, Algebra, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Academic: Math, Science

Meet the Tutors

Explore Our Blog

Stay informed with expert insights on college admissions, standardized testing, and test prep strategies.
View all
View all
Two students studying and discussing outdoors at a table with books and notebooks.
Reality Check: How Do Your Student’s Grades and Test Scores Stack Up Against Their College List?
As college application season inches closer, now’s a great time for juniors to take stock. How do their grades and test scores align with their dream schools? This guide offers practical tools and perspective to help students calibrate their college list for realistic goals, smart planning, and stronger outcomes.
Drew Heilpern
April 3, 2025
Read
Student writing mathematical formulas on a whiteboard, viewed from over the shoulder.
Junior Year GPA: It's Not Too Late to Finish Strong
Junior year isn’t over—and your story definitely isn’t written yet. If your GPA isn’t where you want it to be, now’s the moment to get strategic, shift your habits, and finish strong. This post breaks down exactly how to make the most of these final months and boost your college readiness.
Drew Heilpern
April 3, 2025
Read
Teen boy in glasses looking stressed while checking a large alarm clock on a desk surrounded by books.
Executive Function Coaching Goes Mainstream
Executive Function coaching has gone mainstream – and for good reason. With increasing academic stress, digital distractions, and packed schedules, students need the tools to plan, focus, and manage their time effectively. From early interventions to virtual coaching, EF support is more accessible than ever, helping students thrive now and in the future.
Drew Heilpern
March 5, 2025
Read
Chalkboard-style collage of math and physics formulas
Master Grit & Prep for Life Beyond School: Why You Should Take That Challenging Math Class Next Year
Think advanced math isn’t for you? Think again. From boosting college applications to strengthening problem-solving skills, AP Precalculus and Calculus offer benefits beyond the classroom. Learn why tackling a challenging math class with the right support can save you time, money, and stress—and set you up for lifelong success.
Drew Heilpern
March 3, 2025
Read
Stressed student holding head while using laptop
Stronger at Math Than Your SAT/ACT Scores Show? Here’s How to Close the Gap
Your math skills are solid, so why aren’t your test scores? Rushing, test-day stress, and overlooked gaps in knowledge can all hold you back. Instead of endless drilling, take a smarter approach. Learn how to identify and fix the real issues – so your scores reflect what you’re truly capable of!
Drew Heilpern
March 3, 2025
Read
Student writing equations on whiteboard in classroom
Maximizing Your AP Success: Colleges That Reward Academic Rigor
Maximizing your AP success can be a game-changer in the college admissions process, especially for schools that value academic rigor. Did you know that at UCLA, strong AP scores are explicitly considered as part of the admissions review? Not only can high scores strengthen your application, but they may also earn you college credit, saving both time and money. Choosing the right AP classes during sophomore and junior year is just as important as excelling in them—focus on your strengths and future goals to make the most of these opportunities.
Drew Heilpern
December 18, 2024
Read
Student holding textbooks, wearing backpack on campus walkway
AP Overload: Balancing Academic Rigor & Student Well-Being
Advanced Placement courses have transformed American high schools, reshaping college admissions while fueling both opportunity and stress for students. With millions tackling APs each year, how can we balance their benefits and challenges? Explore the history, data, and debate surrounding AP’s dominance—and what balance means in today’s high-pressure academic landscape.
Drew Heilpern
December 8, 2024
Read
Student holding textbooks, wearing backpack on campus walkway
How Executive Functioning Can Ease Academic Anxiety
Anxiety and executive functioning are deeply intertwined. Students with strong EF skills are more resilient to academic stress, while those who struggle to master EF skills often feel overwhelmed. Discover how key skills like planning and organization can help students manage anxiety, regain control, and achieve academic success with confidence.
Drew Heilpern
November 6, 2024
Read
picture of laptop being used to take the digital sat|
Navigating Digital AP Exams: What Every Student Needs to Know for 2025
Big changes are coming to AP exams, and staying informed is key! Whether you’ll be testing fully digital, hybrid, or on paper, understanding the new setups in College Board’s Bluebook app can give you an edge. This guide covers what’s new—from digital practice tips to picking the right calculator. Get ready to approach AP season with confidence by learning what to expect and how to prepare for success!
Drew Heilpern
October 31, 2024
Read
Stressed student looking at laptop screen.
Conquering Test Anxiety in a Digital World
Worried about test anxiety with the new digital SAT, ACT, or AP exams? Don’t be! This post breaks down how students can overcome test stress by mastering the digital format and building self-regulation skills. Discover practical tips for staying calm, focused, and confident to achieve your best performance on test day.
Drew Heilpern
October 14, 2024
Read