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Award-Winning 1st Grade Homework Tutors

David

Certified Tutor

David

Bachelors, English Literature, minors in Philosophy and Spanish
David's other Tutor Subjects
College English
College Essays
Comparative Literature
English

I have recently completed a Master's degree in Writing at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. In addition to being on the Varsity Tutors team for almost 3 years, I worked as a tutor at the Writing Center at my school, where I was responsible for editing and proofreading the written work of a...

Education

Ohio State University

Bachelors, English Literature, minors in Philosophy and Spanish

Kent

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Kent

Associate in Science, Civil Drafting and Civil Engineering
Kent's other Tutor Subjects
Algebra
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Competition Math
Engineering

I decided to start tutoring because I feel I have knowledge that can be shared. I wasn't always the best student and look forward to working with students who want to work hard and get better at their chosen subject.

Education

Brigham Young University-Provo

Associate in Science, Civil Drafting and Civil Engineering

Jessica

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Jessica

Masters, Healthcare Administration (finance)
Jessica's other Tutor Subjects
Accounting
AP English Language and Composition
Business
College Accounting

As a current English Instructor with a Masters degree from the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, I am eager to apply my experience and passion for education to my students' tutoring and mentoring needs. I have nearly 6 years of experience within education that ranges from after-school tuto...

Education

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Masters, Healthcare Administration (finance)

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Bachelor in Arts, Geography (human activity)

Nancy

Certified Tutor

4+ years

Nancy

Bachelors, Business Management
Nancy's other Tutor Subjects
ACCUPLACER Arithmetic
ACCUPLACER ESL - Reading Skills
ACT English
Administrative Law

Students who learn with me feel they understand why the math they are doing makes sense.Another area of interest is working with students for ESOL needs. I've been a tutor and trainer of tutors with Massachusetts MVLP through Pollard Library in Lowell, MA for three years. This work has been with adu...

Education

Granite State College

Bachelors, Business Management

Amber

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Amber

Bachelor of Science, Anthropology
Amber's other Tutor Subjects
Algebra
Algebra 2
Arithmetic
Calculus

During my 3.5 years at Arizona State University I could never pick a focused area of study because I was, and still am, interested in everything. I started off as a math major because I was already very accomplished in the subject, having taken Calc 3 and Differential Equations in high school. Howev...

Education

Arizona State University

Bachelor of Science, Anthropology

Clare

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Clare

Master of Philosophy, Philosophy
Clare's other Tutor Subjects
ACT Residual
ACT Study Skills and Organization
ACT with Writing
ACT Writing

I have been a classroom teacher at the community college level for over twenty years. The subject I tutor most is math. I especially like technical math because it relates to engineering (i.e. the real world). I can also tutor logic and physics. I am passionate about helping students because it is r...

Education

Arizona State University

Master of Philosophy, Philosophy

University of California-Los Angeles

Bachelor of Science, Mathematics

Xia

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Xia

Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education
Xia's other Tutor Subjects
Algebra
Conversational Mandarin
Languages
Mandarin Chinese

I am a rising senior studying mathematics and secondary education. I have always dreamed of becoming an educator since I was little. As a child, I always picked the role of teacher when playing the ???pretend game.??? For this simple reason: I was allowed to perform whatever behaviors I considered a...

Education

StJosephs College

Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics Teacher Education

Lisa

Certified Tutor

Lisa

Bachelor of Science, Clothing and Textiles Studies
Lisa's other Tutor Subjects
Art
Elementary School English
Elementary School Math
Elementary School Reading

Hello. My name is Mrs. Lisa. I have been teaching for 18 years. I have homeschooled my own children and am presently a teacher in the homeschool classroom setting. Currently, I teach Writing, Grammar, Spelling, Life Skills & US Geography. I have also tutored students in person and online. Most of my...

Education

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Bachelor of Science, Clothing and Textiles Studies

Kiran

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Kiran

Master of Science, Occupational Therapy
Kiran's other Tutor Subjects
ACT Prep
ACT English
ACT Math
ACT Reading

I have a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Master's of Science degree in Occupational Therapy with a specialization in education. I also have taken extra college classes in Mathematics and Science to further my education. I worked for a few years on the clinical side of Occupational Therapy, and ...

Education

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Master of Science, Occupational Therapy

Wright State University-Main Campus

Bachelor of Science, Psychology

Christina

Certified Tutor

Christina

Masters, Secondary Social Studies Education
Christina's other Tutor Subjects
Advanced Placement Prep
AP Comparative Government and Politics
AP U.S. Government & Politics
AP United States History

As an educator, I have nearly three years of classroom experience working with students grades K-12. A Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Penn State, a Master of Science in Education from Duquesne University, and dual certifications in Secondary English and Social Studies Education have provide...

Education

Duquesne University

Masters, Secondary Social Studies Education

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Bachelor in Arts, History

Meet Our Expert Tutors

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Lillian

Algebra Tutor • +22 Subjects

I am a senior math major at barnard college of Columbia University. I've tutored in the math help room through calculus III for 2 years. I enjoy algebra, number theory, and topology. I am also premed and enjoy chemistry, intro physics, and organic chemistry.

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William

Algebra Tutor • +47 Subjects

I am a graduate of New York University???s undergraduate history program. My main focus was the cultural and intellectual history of WWII Japan. In my final summer at NYU I traveled to Japan where I studied Japanese, traditional music, and Wartime film.I offered my academic services both in high school and college, often to my peers, primarily in writing and mathematics. I work carefully with students to bring out clarity and richness of expression in their writing. Essays are essentially portraits of your character and logical flow, which is often where students are lost, is crucial towards creating a compelling voice. Mathematics is similar; it requires a practiced hand and a clear mental map. I am happy to guide students at any level and tailor lessons to their needs.Although I enjoy writing and mathematics the most, I have a passion for physics, earth sciences, reading comprehension French and Japanese. I encourage students to find freedom in these subjects rather than trauma. In each lies a means of expression and an opportunity for dialogue. Physics, for example, offers us a completely new vocabulary for describing our natural world. My goal is for you to develop a comfortable rhythm using unfamiliar vocabulary and the ideas behind them. Patience, young one, and you will feel empowered, not intimidated on test day!My method involves students in developing their own ways of learning and exploring what makes sense to them. We all come from different backgrounds and connect with material in different ways. Together we can develop this as a strength so that you have your own set of tools that you can apply to any problem. This, ultimately, is the test of any academic pursuit. I am comfortable reaching out and adapting the material whether it be SAT, SAT II, IB, AP, or classwork to where you are now.My hobbies include poetry, electronic music, ink drawings and youtube.

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Marc

ACT Writing Tutor • +51 Subjects

I am currently a student at the University of North Carolina, majoring in chemistry. I offer tutoring in mathematics (through AP calculus BC) and chemistry (through college analytical). My hope is to help students gain complete confidence in their ability to master concepts.

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Barbara Bennett

Elementary School Math Tutor • +2 Subjects

I graduated from Baylor University with a bachelor's degree in Economics and received my teaching certification from Texas A & M. I taught all subjects in an elementary setting for 12 years before transferring to teach in a middle school. I taught 6th grade Gifted and Talented and 7th grade on-level math. To put it simply I love teaching math. As a middle school teacher, I found myself in a difficult position when students would come to me to discuss their personal problems. I decided I was ill-equipped to handle some of their issues without the education and background experience. I decided to seek a master's degree in school counseling. I have been a counselor (specializing in adolescence) for the last six years. I miss teaching. I miss interacting with the students. I miss seeing the expressions change on their faces when they finally understand a difficult concept. I also miss the challenge of successfully teaching students that are not mathematically inclined. I believe every student can be successful in math with a teacher who understands their struggle.

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Gemma

American Literature Tutor • +21 Subjects

I make a great tutor because I help students to engage themselves while working through the challenges of each subject. I make sure that students understand what it is that is making the subject hard for them to understand in order to easily solve the problem! I take time with each client to ensure that they're getting a full explanation and are able to build the skills they need to develop further. Thanks for checking out my profile and I look forward to hearing from you!

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Daniel

ACT English Tutor • +10 Subjects

To utilize my academic ability and personal desire to instruct/tutor students in a variety of subject areas, and to instill a sense of desire into students within the areas of subjects taught.

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Lucy

Conversational Spanish Tutor • +3 Subjects

If I have learned something in this life time, it would be that people can take everything away from you, but no one is able to take away your knowledge. As a student whom once struggled with a specific subject, I am passionate to teach other students in a subject I am proficient at.I have been blessed to be born a Mexican -American and be fluent in Spanish and English. With this gift, I have been able to help students and people at every stage of my life. As a young adult(teen), I worked as an ESL assistant to Elementary kids whom Spanish was their first language. At the age of 19 I was offered a great opportunity to create a dynamic Employment Agency. The majority of my duties including translating documentation in both English and Spanish.I also help translate at the Welcome House of Kentucky. I am very hands on with the Hispanic community and my area. I am currently attending Thomas More College (Graduation: Spring 2018). My degree is in Business Management and I plan to put this into effect in a diverse field, where Spanish is spoken.I love to Tutor Spanish because it brings me back to my roots. I also enjoy to see other people learn!My teaching philosophy is to be open. I understand that everyone learns at a different paste . I also understand everyone may interpret knowledge different. This is what makes us unique!Outside of Varsity Tutors I am a fulltime Mom, Wife, Daughter, and Friend. On my spare time I love to go hiking and watching scary movies.

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Murtuza

ACT Prep Tutor • +24 Subjects

I have been tutoring for years, and I think the quality that makes me a great tutor is my patience. I don't care how long it takes to help the student understand the concept. I will take the time to make sure they are well prepared for their courses.

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Isabel

ACT Prep Tutor • +16 Subjects

I've held a variety of positions as an educator, and have ample experience teaching small groups and generating individualized lesson plans and strategies for students. I've just finished a year abroad as a teaching fellow in Southern Israel, where I worked primarily in an underprivileged elementary school teaching proficiency and competence in the the English language. I taught children from diverse backgrounds and language levels, and I particularly utilized creative and artistic projects, in order to generate enthusiasm and learning. These projects included the production of a 20-minute play, an "American Idol"- style competition, and a host of creative writing assignments. I also worked with students to prepare them for the nation-wide standardized tests, meeting with pedagogical advisers and test administrators for training and preparation. As a requirement of my fellowship, I also attended regular lectures and workshops in pedagogical training, sensitivity to learning disabilities, cross-cultural communication, and regional history. Additionally, I learned Hebrew, and worked on a variety of other projects related to community development, urban renewal, cultural appreciation, teaching to different age groups, and the arts. Prior to this fellowship, I have worked as a private tutor, interned in the public education department of a major state museum, and volunteered with an after-school EFL tutoring program for disadvantaged youth.From these experiences, I've developed a tireless work ethic, as well as a tremendous capacity to adapt to new scenarios, think analytically, and communicate effectively with a wide variety of people. I believe that effective teaching demands passionate, enthusiastic teachers who will invest their full energy and focus into their students, and this is the standard I hold myself to when approaching my lessons. No two students are the same, and unless they are given individualized attention, it can be difficult to assess where a knowledge gap or particular strength that is being under-utilized might exist. I strive to understand my students as individuals and create lessons and strategies tailored to them personally.

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Kimberly

ACT English Tutor • +31 Subjects

Hi there! My name is Kimmy. I just finished my sophomore year of college studying Cognitive Science with a concentration in Neuroscience. I love tutoring and have been involved in various tutoring groups both in high school and college. Currently, I tutor elementary school students, and I am looking to expand that role! I have expertise in multiple different areas, and I am looking forward to getting to share my passion for learning with others!

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Frequently Asked Questions

First graders are transitioning from play-based learning to more structured academic work, which brings several common challenges. Many struggle with focus and stamina—sitting still to complete assignments for even 15-20 minutes can be difficult at this age. Others find the jump from oral instruction to written work overwhelming, especially if their fine motor skills (like pencil grip and letter formation) aren't quite developed. Reading comprehension, phonics application, and math word problems also trip up many 1st graders because they require connecting multiple skills at once. Additionally, some students experience frustration when they can't immediately do what the teacher demonstrated, leading to resistance or avoidance of homework altogether.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to break down assignments into smaller, manageable steps and adjust pacing to match your child's learning speed—something that's difficult in a classroom of 20+ students. Tutors can identify whether a child's homework struggles stem from not understanding the concept, difficulty with instructions, or simply needing more practice with foundational skills. They also create a low-pressure environment where it's safe to ask questions and make mistakes, which builds confidence and reduces homework frustration. With consistent, tailored support, most 1st graders develop stronger independent homework habits within a few weeks.

First grade homework typically focuses on three core areas:

  • Reading: Phonics (letter sounds, simple word families), sight words, and beginning comprehension of simple sentences
  • Writing: Letter formation, spacing, copying simple words, and eventually writing simple sentences with support
  • Math: Number recognition and counting to 20, basic addition and subtraction (within 10), and comparing quantities
Homework also builds executive function skills like following directions, organizing materials, and completing tasks with minimal help. By the end of 1st grade, students should be able to attempt most assignments independently (though with adult support nearby) and understand that homework reinforces what they learned in class.

The best tutors working with 1st graders combine patience with strong foundational teaching skills. They understand child development—knowing that 1st graders learn through repetition, play, and positive reinforcement rather than pressure. They're skilled at breaking complex tasks into tiny steps, modeling what "trying again" looks like, and celebrating small wins to build confidence. Great 1st grade tutors also communicate clearly with parents about what skills their child is developing and provide strategies families can use at home. Most importantly, they create a calm, judgment-free space where kids actually enjoy learning instead of dreading homework time.

Many families notice meaningful progress within 3-4 weeks of consistent tutoring. You might see faster results in attitude and confidence (reduced frustration, willingness to try harder work) than in skill mastery. Foundational skills like letter recognition or basic phonics usually solidify within 6-8 weeks of regular practice, while reading fluency and independent problem-solving typically show clearer improvement over 2-3 months. The timeline depends on the specific challenge—some students just need a few sessions to understand a concept their teacher taught, while others benefit from longer-term support to build foundational reading or math skills. Regular communication with your tutor helps track progress and adjust the plan as needed.

For most 1st graders, one or two sessions per week (30-45 minutes each) is enough to provide meaningful support without overwhelming a young learner's schedule. Students dealing with significant reading or math gaps might benefit from twice-weekly sessions initially to build momentum, while others who just need occasional homework clarification do fine with weekly check-ins. The key is consistency—regular, predictable tutoring sessions work better than sporadic, intensive ones for this age group. You can always adjust frequency as your child's skills improve or if new challenges emerge in the classroom.

Yes. Before starting, it's helpful to share your child's school curriculum, recent homework assignments, or teacher feedback with the tutor so they understand what your child is learning in class. Tutors can then reinforce the same skills and concepts using methods that work for your individual child—sometimes using different materials or approaches than the classroom teacher, but always building on what's being taught at school. This alignment ensures that tutoring supports classroom learning rather than introducing conflicting methods. If you're unsure about curriculum specifics, your child's teacher can provide details about grade-level standards and current focus areas.

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