My teaching philosophy is to view each student individually and help them to reach their potential by focusing the lessons on their learning style and strengths.

A first session is a great time to become familiar with students’ strengths and challenges so that we can formulate a plan in order for them to reach their goals. Some readings, some basic writing exercises, and other fairly broad and basic activities will help us both to be clear about the best way to move forward with success.

Independence is always a goal, and I work toward this by empowering the student to take an active role in their learning. For example, most students have opinions about the material on which they are working, and I will encourage them to support their opinions with evidence from the text in order for their opinion or perspective to be sound and supported. Once that skill is learned, the student will always be able to support their views, regardless of the subject or situation.

I would help a student stay motivated by providing learning materials that suits their interests as often as possible. I always provide consistent encouragement and by revealing their progress so that they develop increased confidence.

If a student is struggling with a concept or skill, I might try presenting the concept or skill to them in a different way. For example, if I were helping a student understand the concept of first person voice, first I might provide him or her with a short story using that voice. If that didn't do the trick, I might show a short video in which the narration is done in first person. Sometimes, depending on the learning style of the student, switching the format is all that is needed. But understanding the learning style of the student is key in helping them find a way to understand skills and concepts.

I help students struggling with reading comprehension by helping them identify clues in the text. Clues can be words that indicate purpose or perspective, but clues can also come from the structure of the writing - such as introductory paragraphs in essays, use of punctuation such as quotation marks or commas, or other clues that give reference to the writer's perspective. These are some simple and concrete ways to increase comprehension. Also, introducing material that the student enjoys reading encourages them to read more and develop greater comprehension.

Identifying the student's learning style is important to success. Empowering them in the learning process is a good way for them to take ownership of their learning and see the practicality of it in their own lives and for their own goals.

I always look to provide material that is of interest to the student. I do my best to get to know them and try to find as many ways possible to make the material meaningful to them personally.

I usually will ask the same question in more than one way in order to make sure that a student fully understands the material. Also, by having the student describe to me the basic content of an article or short story helps to ensure they have true understanding of it.

Confidence comes from mastery, and I will continually show a student their improvement so that they feel encouraged to move forward. It also helps to know a student's goals and point out the ways they are moving towards them.

First by having a conversation with the student and hearing what their reason is for wanting tutoring. Then by specifically reviewing the concept or skill that they are challenged by - for example, if they struggle with comprehension, have them read a text and answer questions. Then together, develop an action plan for success.

Adapting my teaching style is always related to the student's learning style. Some students have an active learning style. For example, I might have that student read a text and answer questions in the form of charades, and then help them formulate their answers in writing.

All kinds of reading materials - books, magazines, essays, poems, and chapter books. I might use an appropriate video when a visual learner needs to see it to help understanding. I might use paper and crayons to work with a young student to create a game that helps them to master a challenge or skill.