What is your teaching philosophy?

Each student brings their own strengths and values. It's beneficial for both of us when we can identify those preferences and apply them to tougher material.

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

We will explore the student's study habits, favorite subjects, and learning style. Next, we will discuss areas for improvement and decide which subjects are high priority.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I strive to empower students by finding their ideal learning style so they can apply familiar processes to any new material.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would encourage them to think about their long-term goals and values. How might this material apply to their future work or relationships? Even if they can't see a direct connection, it's important to remember that the process of overcoming difficult material improves their thinking.

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

I would repeatedly make connections to that concept as we moved through similar material. We might return to it later, trying different approaches and memory strategies.

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

I break down the passage into smaller parts. What does the first sentence indicate? What can we learn from the first paragraph? Eventually, we can put together pieces so the student can learn to skim a passage for key points.

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

I ask the student questions about their favorite subjects, study approaches, and difficulties. I encourage them to identify their ideal learning style so they can study most effectively.

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

I would ask plenty of questions and perhaps offer a few practice scenarios for the student to attempt.

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

I typically bring writing utensils, a notebook or tablet, a calculator if applicable, and approved lesson materials.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I give practice tests and activities. I also listen to student feedback about the most challenging sections.

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

I spend more time going over sections where the student makes errors, either in their final answer or their problem-solving process.

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

I would encourage them in the sections they are doing well, and provide extra review in the sections which are more challenging.

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

I demonstrate that the principles needed to succeed in the subject are similar to those they use in other areas, whether other school subjects or activities like sports, leadership, or music. I encourage them to be persistent and set clear and realistic goals they can be inspired to achieve.