James

Certified Tutor

Good teaching begins with respect for the needs, interests, and learning styles of each student. However, it also depends on proper training and subject knowledge. In this respect, my teaching has been enriched by graduate study (M.A., M.Phil, Medieval European History), including intensive study of both history and languages, including German, Latin, French, and Spanish, which I speak fluently.
Furthermore, my teaching has been shaped by many years of working as a high-school history/social studies teacher. I have taught Global History, and several electives like Political Philosophy, Modern Latin America, Strategic Thinking, and Religion. I have also taught test preparation and ESL.
This background enables me to provide instructive, substantive lessons, understand and draw upon each student's needs and potentialities, and to unlock his or her academic potential. In addition to subject knowledge, effective self-expression (written and oral) and reasoned analysis of well-chosen evidence, I also encourage students to develop a genuine interest in the subject by showing them how historical study may touch on today's most pressing issues and on their own personal lives.
The skills gained along the way--expository writing, public speaking, and critical thinking--will propel students to success not only in school, but in every field of endeavor.