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

First, I'll chat with them for a few minutes, just to get to know them so that we can both feel comfortable with each other. Then, I will do an evaluation to see where the student stands, and I'll then make a decision about how to move forward from there.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I try to teach my students the skills they need to be successful, not just the material. If they know how to approach something, they will be more likely to do well on their own.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I always try to encourage my students and keep them aware of their progress.

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

I usually start by going back to basics. Usually, a student who struggles is missing some basic element for that subject. Once that gets cleared up, I take my time and work with them through every step, until they have mastered it.

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

I teach my students what to read for-- not just what the words say, but how to read for key elements in a passage.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I'll start by asking the student what they feel confident about and what they are struggling with. Then, I'll confirm this by going through some problems with them and letting them show me how they approach them. This way, I can see what they do well and what they need to work on.

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

If a student has materials they would prefer to use, I try to use those. If they do not have materials, I will provide materials from my own library.

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

I will have them teach me. I always feel that the best way to know if you understand something is to teach it to somebody else. If the student can do this successfully, I feel confident that they have mastered the material.