I believe each student learns differently, and tutoring should be tailored accordingly. Linking schoolwork to prior knowledge and interests is also important. My goal is for students to retain knowledge, not to just pass the subject. This is important in mathematics since skills are often built on top of one another.

During the first tutoring session, I would most likely try to get a feel of the individual's needs. I would aim to figure out which skills need improvement, if the student is in need of remedial assistance as well, and also the learning/studying style of the student. Oftentimes math is not the problem, or it's not the only one. Reading deficiencies negatively effect all other subjects. Basically, there are a lot of factors I consider when helping a new student.

I would instill good mathematics studying habits. Things such as always showing their work, checking their answers, rewriting the equations, finding ways to answer their own questions, and also working with me to relate math to everyday life situations. Over time these things help student to reduce errors, gain confidence, and become critical thinkers.

Each student is different, and I respect that. However, I will always be motivated and enthusiastic while working with a student because it is contagious! Relating math to the student's interests, being personable, patient, enthusiastic, and positive are all ways I motivate students.

If a student has trouble with a specific concept, I would try to explain it in a different way, if possible use real-world examples, have them practice the concept after the session for me to review, and assist and reinforce during our next session.

Since I do not specialize in reading, I would alert the student/parent of the reading deficiency. Then this can be properly addressed. Learning to read and, more importantly, comprehend what you read can be time consuming, and may be best addressed through reading itself, or by a parent on a very regular basis. I would still help the student with mathematics, but the reading must be addressed.

I am excited about mathematics, and that is usually a good start to help students get excited. Not being good at something is not fun, and it is definitely not exciting. However, it is hard not to be excited when you start to understand things that once seemed impossible(especially when your tutor is your biggest cheerleader!).

When a student can "teach" a concept to me and consistently apply it in practice, then I can be sure they have mastered a skill.

I build confidence by encouragement, positive feedback, and trust. I say trust because I will always aim to uplift and understand. It does not matter if a student is several grade levels behind or ahead, each student will be treated like the important individual they are.

If the tutoring is for a class, then I can use homework assignments and book assignments to see where the student should be. By having the student talk through problems step by step, I can quickly identify the level of understanding they have with individual concepts. Also, if the student is old enough, they can tell me what they don't understand in particular.

After one or two sessions of teaching things in multiple ways, the student's preferences will become more and more clear. I will adjust to the student, but I do require they show their work and apply certain good studying habits as much as possible.

Usually all that is needed is paper, pencils, and an appropriate calculator. I also like to bring examples and practice problems.