How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

If a student is struggling with reading comprehension, the best tool to begin teaching them is to ask themselves questions as they read. Fluent readers innately do this; creating deeper connection to the text.

What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?

The best beginning strategies are ones that include getting to know my students. It lays the framework for the rest of the relationship in learning.

How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?

I believe that students need to take the reins on their love of learning by allowing them to bring forth who they are. Allowing them to pick their text, creating games or incorporating the arts encourages students to become more excited about new ways to learn age old material.

What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?

I often check for understanding by asking the same questions stated in a more rigorous way requiring the student to think deeper into the concept. Also, via role reversal and have the student teach me or someone else the concept.

How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?

Confidence is built over time by meeting the student where they are and building them from there. As the student progresses, shining on them for their progress and hard work with specific example feedback.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I take into account how the student feels he or she is in a particular area. I find the student's place of comfort and meet them where they are. From there, all work and expectations are slightly higher than their displayed comfort level.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

I believe tutoring shouldn't feel like school. I try my best to incorporate technology, kinesthetics, the arts, and mostly student selected materials from a pool I have created.