Jennifer

What is your teaching philosophy?

Students that get discouraged are more likely to give up. I note the small successes and things they do right -- the confidence boost usually catches their interest. In addition, I usually find ways to relate concepts to their interests, like video games or sports.

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

In a typical first session, I am trying to get to know the student. I will be assessing their weaknesses and strengths with the material, their learning style, and whether there is anything else hindering their achievement, like test anxiety. I will start targeting their specific needs, and we will also work on any issues or materials the parents were able to get to me before the session. I then end the session by asking the student what they thought was or was not helpful and give them something to work on before our next meeting.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

The single best way to get students to enjoy learning a subject is to increase their confidence. Students like to succeed and often choose the paths that they excel in; when learning is hard, they tend to avoid it. When I meet with students, I show them how easy, fun, and interesting it can be, including grammar.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

It is easy to help a student stay motivated when you can interest them in the subject, which I am usually able to do. In addition, it helps to keep the student focused on easily achievable goals as well as what they have already accomplished.

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

I often phrase things in multiple ways using analogies and metaphors. Throughout sessions, I frequently ask the student to restate a concept in their own words or repeat the skill to confirm they have absorbed the information.

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

The best way to help with reading comprehension is to start with simple strategies that make reading easier. Students get discouraged when reading takes time, either from not understanding concepts or having to look words up. By helping readers recognized patterns, you can improve their focus and abilities.