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

In a first session, I talk with students about what they are struggling with most and any concerns they may have initially.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I work with students to find their own strengths. Self-confidence is an important step in learning. I will teach students techniques to empower themselves so that they can solve problems.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I talk a lot with my students about the end goal and the importance of an education.

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

When a student struggles with a concept, I try explaining it in multiple different ways until they can understand it. I test them by having them explain the concept to me.

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

I read along with students and help them highlight or underline the important concepts within a passage. We look for patterns within readings as well.

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

I like to have a plan when I start working with a student. After we talk about the concerns and what they need help with, I devise a plan for our tutoring sessions.

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

I try to talk to the student about how this subject could be applicable in the real world or try to explain the concept in a way that they can relate to.

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

I always have students explain the concept to me after we have talked about it; this ensures that they do know what it is. I use a lot of practice problems for Math.

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

I applaud students for answering correctly, or for taking the right steps toward the solution. Showing them that they can solve the problem builds their confidence.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I talk with parents and students to best understand the need. I also like to view past homework assignments, tests, and quizzes to get an idea of where the most work is needed.

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

I use a variety of methods to explain problems and will tailor those methods to the individual student.

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

I typically use a notebook, pen or pencil, and a calculator.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe all students can succeed when they have confidence in themselves and the resources to support them. Each student learns differently, and I will work with students to find their strengths.