Melisa: Barrington tutor
Certified Tutor
I am a graduate of The University of Iowa with a BA degree in Spanish Language and Literature. A highlight in my college career was studying at The Fundacin y Gasset Estudios Internacionales in Toledo, Spain receiving certification of completion of the Spanish immersion program. During my time in Spain, I was also a nanny for a local family. I hold a California Clear Teaching Credential from USIU. My 15 year teaching career was spent at Francis Parker School where I taught many levels of middle school Spanish. I truly enjoyed seeing the progression of students language acquisition over the years. Leading student trips abroad as well was also a highlight. It was wonderful to see the students experience the language and culture in the native countries and use what they learned in the classroom, expanding their horizons. As a tutor, I strive to make students more comfortable in learning the concepts so they can therefore practice and improve their speaking skills. A few of my interests include cooking, travel, skiing and pilates. An upcoming goal for me is to become fluent in Italian.
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What is your teaching philosophy?
I adjust my teaching style to reach students of all levels in order for them to achieve success.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
Start a conversation to inquire what their needs and goals are. Evaluate their level and create a personalized plan for each student.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
Give them specific tools, including the use of technology, to reinforce their skills.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Keep it fun and engaging. Give them positive, as well as constructive, feedback
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
Go over the concept explaining it in different ways. Do effective practice together to help them gain reinforcement of the skills.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
Positive feedback and personalized, specific strategies to strengthen their knowledge of the language.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
Create lessons that are more interactive and that are tailored to that student's learning style.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
Ask questions for comprehension, listen to their feedback, and go over any concepts they may struggle with.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
Positive reinforcement and specific feedback that will help them improve.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
I ask them specific questions and really listen to what they need.
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
Talk to them, get their feedback, and adjust teaching to student's learning style.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
Textbook, white board, laptop, writing utensils, and notebook. The student's class materials if they have those as well.