Laura: Cambridge tutor

Certified Tutor

I have been teaching for over 20 years. First with my own children, then in an American classroom,(7-12th grades), and then internationally, (8-12 and college level). While I am most passionate about English Literature, I have also taught history, world religions, social justice, and tutored writing, SAT, TOEFL, and IELTS preparation. I have a Masters degree in Humanities and BA in International Relations and English and I am also certified to teach the TOEFL and IELTS exams. Learning is not something restricted to the classroom but it is a lifelong endeavor. Working with young adults allows me to share my experience and knowledge as well as learn from and with them.

My pedagogy is rooted in making my curriculum as current and relevant as possible. I believe that each student is a person who learns, understands, appreciates, discovers, and grows at their own pace. Differentiated instruction is just a reality of teaching.

Young adults need to be able to try out their ideas, test information, and vet sources. Understanding is not one thing for all students. Therefore, it is necessary to reach each student where they are. Present them with "big ideas" and questions to be considered. Monitor them, guide them, and support the process of learning.

I assess learning based on a student demonstrating, in a variety of ways, that they understand themes, concepts, and the impact of all the ideas we study. This may be a blog, writing a script, a movie or a song, performing a dance, drama, or poem, or building something. Having students collaborate on projects as well as work alone allows for a stronger impact on the material.

In my spare time, I love to travel, read, and garden.