What is your teaching philosophy?

As your tutor, I will explain how each process or concept works, then provide examples of the process. At the end of each concept, I will help you work through some examples of your own.

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

Introduce myself, and get to know the student better. Then I will ask them to describe the problems they are having, and try to work through the initial problems.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Teach them how the concepts work, and how they can apply them to concepts they already know, helping them retain the information for later use when I am not able to help, such as during a test.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Talk to the student and try to reach them on a personal level. Motivation comes from encouragement.

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

Explain the concept, then guide them through examples until they are confident in completing several practice problems on their own.

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

Reading is not a race by any means. Instead of speeding through the reading, consciously read the text, take notes if necessary, and highlight important details.

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

Teach with them, instead of teaching at them. Instead of spouting off a lesson, go at the pace that the student feels comfortable with.

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

Provide real-world examples where this can be used, and maybe list a few exciting occupations that use the concept.

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

As I said before, I will explain the concept, provide examples, and help them work out examples. Finally, once the student is able to work on examples without my assistance, the student has a firm grip on the concept.

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

Positive reinforcement. If he gets a question right, reinforcing him with a compliment on the work works very well. Also, helping them through concepts until they are confident enough to do it on their own.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

By asking them what they need help in, and by basic observations. (i.e. not paying attention, confusing concepts, etc.).

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

Patience is a huge virtue. Waiting until the concept is firmly understood before going to the next subject is key.

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

Paper/Whiteboard to show how the concepts work and to break down problems. Also, practice problems and real-world examples are key.