Ileana
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: Hamilton College - Bachelors, Physics
10th Grade Math
11th Grade Math
12th Grade Math
3rd Grade Math
4th Grade Math
5th Grade Math
6th Grade Math
7th Grade Math
8th Grade Math
9th Grade Math
CLEP College Algebra
Elementary School Math
Spanish 1
What is your teaching philosophy?
It is not impossible to learn things. Everyone is capable of obtaining the same knowledge; one just has to find the right person to teach it to them.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I would begin with their assignments and work from there. Since my focus is in mathematics, if I notice that they are struggling I would proceed accordingly by working backwards in order to find the root of what is causing them issues. Since math is a subject that builds upon itself, it is very important that students understand and be confident with their fundamental skills.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
One way in which I have helped others in the past is by giving them resources and techniques which I use often to help myself. Another way would be by helping them understand the subject and see it in a different way so that hopefully they can begin to feel confident.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
One of the reasons students are unmotivated is because they have given up when they find things too difficult. By trying my best to make math easy, it will hopefully motivate them.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
I usually try to break the problem down as much as possible and use as many examples as it takes until they demonstrate to me that they understand.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
Gaining their confidence and making a comfortable environment for them is key. Kids that usually have trouble are shy and embarrassed to show that they are struggling. It is important that they do not feel judged.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
When working on a problem, I don't give out the answers; I try to "bate" them out of the students. This way, not only do they solidify their knowledge on the subject, but I am able to identify their problem areas faster.