Alex: Norwalk tutor

Certified Tutor

I believe that children should be taught how to think clearly, logically, independently, and critically. This can be accomplished quite effectively through a unique approach to the traditional curriculum. Reading comprehension skills, science, even the correct application of spelling rules and generalizations can be excellent ways of developing inductive logical thinking skills. And math, if taught properly, is great for developing deductive logical thinking skills. In fact, I have developed my own method for teaching elementary math which accomplishes precisely this objective, and I would relish the opportunity to teach the full program to serious, motivated students. Writing also has tremendous benefits. When one clarifies and adds precision to a particular thought one is trying to communicate, critical thinking skills are being developed. And all can be very effective ways of developing problem-solving skills.
I believe that reading and spelling instruction are most effective when built upon a solid foundation of phonics. Once these phonetic skills are in place, reading ability is best developed through instruction in reading comprehension skills and through a program of extensive individualized reading. Toward that end, I sought to provide children in my classes with good literature and ample opportunity to read both fiction and nonfiction books of their choice. Indeed, as a former first grade teacher, I am familiar with many of the most fun and engaging books for beginning readers. I believe that a solid command of English grammar is vital to effective, intelligent, and coherent speaking and writing, and as a result, I gave it a great deal of attention in my classroom. I believe that the traditional but typically neglected subjects of history and geography are essential to fully understanding ourselves and our world, and I taught both in considerable depth and detail. Indeed, I believe that there is something almost sacred about history.
I am dedicated and hardworking as evidenced by the fact that I was almost never absent. I prefer to interact with my students rather than simply giving uninspired assignments or mindless "busy work," because I feel that the former is more effective. I believe that a good teacher should ask questions which require thoughtful responses from minds which are actively engaged in the learning process. I set high standards for my students, and create many of my own materials including rather rigorous teacher made tests. Though I am firm and focused and require a high level of responsibility and accountability from my students, I liked to conduct my classes, when possible, with a sense of humor.
I taught in the public schools for thirty-three years. Though I taught fourth grade for many years, I have also taught first grade, second grade, fifth grade, Title I Remedial Reading and Math (K-2), Title I Remedial Kindergarten, seventh grade Reading, and even served as a K-2 Mentor/Reading Specialist. I am Elementary (K-8) licensed and hold a Reading Teacher endorsement and an endorsement in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Though I am retired, my passion for teaching remains. It is my hope that individual and small-group tutoring will allow me to experience all the joy and fulfillment that the profession of teaching was always meant to have. I look forward to using all my skills and experience to help your child to learn.