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

Before a typical first session with a student, I provide the student with sample problems so that I might have an idea of the student's understanding of the subject. Then, in going over these problems, I provide the student with some general rules and strategies regarding preparing for the standardized test or studying the subject.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe in giving my students the tools necessary to allow them to come to their own conclusions.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can help a student become an independent learner by providing general rules and tips that apply to not just a single problem but all problems in a particular subject.

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

Try out several different ways of explaining the skill or concept. Assign plenty of practice geared towards this specific skill or concept.

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

Read with the student, break down the article/passage as we're going through it, pointing out main ideas, key elements, rhetorical devices, etc.

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

I make sure that my students understand the materials after we have gone over them by asking that they explain the material back to me.

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

I build my student's confidence in a subject by giving them ample practice so they develop a familiarity and, through it, comfort with the subject.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

In terms of test prep, I ask students to complete sample tests, which provide the most accurate assessment of their strengths and weaknesses.

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

I pay close attention to how students choose to approach questions and adapt my tutoring to their individual styles.