Jonathan
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: University of Colorado Boulder - Bachelors, Psychology
Graduate Degree: Canisius College - Masters, Education
State Certified Teacher
Snowboarding, Swimming, Jogging, playing with my kids.
American Literature
College Level American History
College Level American Literature
High School English
High School Level American History
High School Level American Literature
High School Writing
Other
What is your teaching philosophy?
I feel that teaching is about making small, consistent improvements over time. This is accomplished through discussions between student and teacher.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I would get to know how much they like the subject. I would ask for some examples of their work in order to see where our starting point will be.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Motivation comes from seeing results. If a student is willing to practice my writing methods, they will see improvement.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
Often times, a student will struggle with a concept because they think of it only one way. Sometimes, if you reframe a problem, students will begin to understand it.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I always do think-alouds as I read with students. This way, they see what proficient readers do while they are reading.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
Using humor to create a sense of rapport is key. Also, pinpointing where the deficits lie is another key strategy.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
I think a solid route to engagement is showing a student how relevant the topic is to their life.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I'd have the student submit answers verbally, as well as on paper.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
Scaffolding the material so that success is built in along the way.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
By reading their writing.
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
You change what your focus is. If the student's work shows a lack of focus, I would focus on organization.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
I use graphic organizers, PowerPoints, videos, etc.