Olivia: Yorkville tutor
Certified Tutor
I believe that it is my purpose in life to help students with their communication skills. The foundation of this begins with writing. Students become strong writers through practice and through evaluation of the writings of others. This is one reason why reading is so important. If a student is able to read a text, evaluate it, and discuss his or her foundlings, then we have a student learning the skills necessary to become an effective communicator. Words have power, and I love teaching students how to harness that power.
Connect with a tutor like Olivia
Undergraduate Degree: North Greenville University - Bachelors, Secondary English Education
theatre, photography, reading, running, working out, interval/cross-fit training
- American Literature
- AP English Language and Composition
- College English
- College Level American Literature
- English
- English Grammar and Syntax
- Essay Editing
- High School English
- High School Level American Literature
- High School Writing
- IB Extended Essay
- Poetry
- Public Speaking
- World Literature
- Writing
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
My goal is for all students to become independent learners. I want to show them the power that knowledge can give them in their lives. This knowledge will create a level of confidence that will grow into a desire for lifelong learning. My approach to writing and effective communication takes the guess work out of ELA assignments. I provide transferable skills to a student that builds a sense of confidence in all areas of their academics and life.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Communication and support are so important in student motivation. Often, teachers are quick to point to what's wrong about student work. This can be very discouraging and monotonous. I strive to show the good, the bad, and the ugly all while being supportive of effort and understanding. If a student can feel like he/she is not the only one out there struggling, learning can take place because the fear of being left out on a limb is gone.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
In my history of being a high school English teacher, I have honestly found that my sense of humor and overall dorkiness has helped motivate students. I am passionate about English, and I transfer that passion with nothing held back. I don't care what others think of me, and I show it. My confidence in myself and in my students has always been my strongest tool.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I love Socratic style discussions. By asking students to prepare for a Socratic discussion, I can gauge their comprehension of a text based on their preparation. Then, we simply talk about what we're reading or writing. We relate it back to personal interest. This breaks down walls and can then allow students struggling with material to understand and apply a greater concept.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
Build the student up and break the subject down. With English, all you have to do is tear down the complexity of it all. It's really just basic communication and doesn't have to be as inaccessible as many teachers make it out to be. I love to relate ELA back to music, television, and film. This way, students feel comfortable with what they are talking about.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
My first session would simply be a conversation. We would discuss expectations and disappointments. I want to know what he/she feels his/her strengths and weaknesses are when it comes to English class. We will talk about learning style and what works best.