What is your teaching philosophy?

My philosophy is that if I can provide the right tools, then any student can succeed.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

I would discuss study strategies and go over the syllabus or outline of the class. I would then discuss with the student what expectations they have for the class, and where they want to go in life.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can help by giving them study tips and plans. I feel I can leave them with an idea of how to prepare for any test or class. I like to help them know how to tackle any problem so that they can be independent.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would tie in what they are learning to something they are passionate about. I would help them think about reading by asking them to read something related to their interests. I would use analogies from sports or video games they like to help solve problems.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

I would break it down to its base components. After simplifying it, I would compare it to something they do understand, and build up to the full skill or concept from there.

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

I would start small with something they care about. It might not be a book, but maybe a story and a game. I would help them comprehend that, and then move on to bigger ideas. The main goal is to get interested in the material, and then help them explore concepts from there.

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

I would compare it to something they enjoy. I would tie it in to a movie, book, TV series or game they like. This way they can see the fun aspects of the subject and enjoy it more.

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

I would give them a quiz or have a discussion about the material. Something that would allow them to lead with what they know so I could fill in any gaps that are there.

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

I give them practice problems and discussion concepts. I let them demonstrate to themselves how much they understand a subject.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I talk to them about the subject. That way I know how they feel about the subject. I then watch them do an assignment or practice problem to fully understand where they are.

How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?

I make up study plans for each student depending on their needs. Some just need a basic outline of what they should do, while others need a solid plan for each individual type of assignment.

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

In a session, I typically bring a notepad to use or some index cards to make into flashcards. I allow the student to be in charge of the materials. I will show them good websites with further materials than they are given for the class as well.

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

I find discussions and just helping create a plan very successful. This allows me to set a specific strategy for each student. They will get the basic building blocks they need for studying the subject, and we can adjust as needed.