Elena: Smithtown tutor
Certified Tutor
I am very passionate about the German language and culture and I am eager to ignite this passion in others. I began studying German at age 12 in middle school and went on to complete a BA degree at the State University of New York at Oswego. I subsequently completed a Masters degree through Middlebury College and was able to study in Berlin, Germany during this time. I believe in taking an academic as well as cultural approach to language learning, so that the language can truly "come alive" in the mind of the student.
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Undergraduate Degree: SUNY College at Oswego - Bachelors, German
Graduate Degree: Middlebury College - Masters, German
Literature, Philosophy, Writing, Theater
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe that a complex and multifaceted subject such as foreign languages require a unique approach that is tailored to the needs of each student.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I would identify the student's motivations for learning German and ascertain any areas of study which they would like to focus on.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I would provide them with reading materials which were related to their own personal interests.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
I typically make use of flash cards, worksheets, and video or audio content.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
I encourage students to pursue leisure activities related to language acquisition, such as listening to German radio, television shows, or music.