I believe strongly in the idea of self-guided discovery, where I guide my students through the process of figuring it out for themselves. This works especially well for reading and writing assignments, but it applies to the sciences as well. My favorite moment is when my students get that "aha!" look in their eyes and gain the confidence to continue on their own, without my help.

I would first take time to get to know the student, what their learning style is, what their frustrations are. Then I would listen to them explain what they already understand so that I can help to fill in the blanks, instead of teach what they already know.

The best way to learn is to teach, so I have my students teach me. I show them a correct pattern for how to learn, and then I have them teach it back to me, with me correcting where necessary.

I have them set small, manageable goals that lead to their final goal. Then I make sue to recognize each accomplishment and point out their progression, so they know how they are succeeding.

My favorite thing is to use analogies and metaphors that are easier to comprehend, and that make a difficult concept easier to understand. I try to relate each comparison to something that they already understand completely, so as to make lasting connections.

I have found that the easiest way to increase comprehension is to simplify the material and break it down into layers that can be analyzed individually. Once each of these layers are understood, then the whole passage can be put together again with better understanding.