What is your teaching philosophy?

Progressive inquiry-based learning.

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

Map the student's goals and expectations for both of us. For test prep, I would make sure that the student is aware of the basic and logistical structure of the exam. For all other subjects I would ask about any methods, structures, and preferred methods at the student's school. Most importantly, we'd find out more about each other, so I can be more sensitive to anything that the student needs!

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Find a structure and schedule that works best for the student. I do a lot of independent research. I became much more productive after I found the right environment and time frame for my work.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Being as encouraging as possible. We are both in it together!

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

Take a step back. Next, find a new approach to the concept. It could mean examining the bigger picture or focusing on a small aspect of it. That part depends on the learning style of the student.

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

Break it down. Identify each clause, extract the idea behind it, and see how it relates to other clauses. Vocabulary exercises will not only give the student more confidence, but reinforce these exercises.

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

Structuring the lesson to be as interactive as possible. I want to hear the student as much as possible!

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

We would work on finding practical or personal connections to the work.