Mark
Certified Tutor
I have been a high school math teacher for 14 years and have experience tutoring students K-12. I am a graduate of the University of St. Francis and Governors State University, obtaining masters degrees from both universities.Besides math, I have a wide range of interests, from music to sports to history, and am a die-hard Blackhawks fan. My philosophy is simple, I believe that math is the foundation life is built on. I have a way of making people understand that, and putting to ease their apprehension. Understand the rules and you can do anything!
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Undergraduate Degree: Governor state university - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
Graduate Degree: University of St. Francis - Unknown, Education
State Certified Teacher
Music, sports, movies, Star Wars, history, my kids.
What is your teaching philosophy?
My philosophy is to teach the rules. If a student learns the rules, they can solve anything.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I would introduce myself and have them tell me about themselves. I would like to get to know them before we begin.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
A student becomes independent when they can answer their own questions. I will show them what questions to ask.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I will show them the importance of learning math, and show them how it can boost their income.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
We'd take a break for a minute for a walk. Then, we'd come back and approach it from a different angle.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I break every word down instead of looking at everything at once.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
Breaking everything down to each step and each rule. You don't need everything at once, just the next step.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
I find a way to relate it to what they are interested in. Money is usually a good motivator.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I would ask the student to explain the topic. If they can explain it, they understand it.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
Find something they understand or are good at. Compliment them on it.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
Look at and evaluate their work. I also ask them how they feel about a topic.
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
I constantly assess. My toolbox is full; I adjust what tool I use based on a student's needs.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
Personal dry erase board, calculators, pencil and paper, compass and protractor. Whatever a student needs.