Sonia

Language learning is not an easy task and with our day to day life, it is even more difficult to do something that is not easy. I hope my students see class time as an enjoyable way to have contact with a foreign language and learn as a byproduct of that fun experience. Now, a little bit more about me. I got my BA in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of Oregon and after having lived in Spain for over 13 years I also got a Masters Degree in Secondary Education, Vocational Training and Language Teaching Specialising in Spanish Language and Literature from the Universidad de Valencia, in Spain. During those 13 years spent in Spain I taught English to students from age 5-55, working in schools, after school programs, company classes, vocational training schools, and individuals who wanted to learn English. As far as extra curricular activities, I do it all. I like being outdoors and travelling, I run, cycle, hike, ski, camp. I like to paint, and read, watch movies. I love to talk to people and socialize as well as learn about different cultures and traditions when I travel. I am a fun, happy, out-going person and I feel I synchronize well with people, which, by the way, makes me a good teacher. :)Concerning my teaching philosophy and my tutoring style, I would say that great educators give students the tools they need in order to empower the student to learn and interact with the world on their own. I try to explain the material at hand, give the student the opportunity to use it, experiment with it, do a few study exercises to build a good foundation, and then let them explore ways to give it meaning, by way of projects, or role plays, games, or real life encounters. A person can learn theory about a language on their own, but the reason why they seek out a tutor or an instructor is for the interaction, that is where I come in, I act as a facilitator and a guide so that the student can engage their own imagination to really learn.

Enjoys skiing, running, cycling, hiking, reading, movies, music, painting.