What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy supports the idea that students learn differently. Some learn through hearing, some learn through doing and others hear by seeing. Teachers must incorporate a variety of teaching strategies to include all learning types. Also, teachers must be patient and kind so students will feel comfortable engaging in new information and gaining knowledge.

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

I would get to know the student by name. I would also find out what interests the student, such as talents and hobbies. I would also administer a practice test to find out what subject areas that the student needs help with the most.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

First, I would make sure the student had a good understanding of the subject matter. I would show the student different strategies on how to study individually. Finally, I would give them exams based upon what they have studied to make sure they are grasping the concepts fully while learning independently.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would give constant encouragement. I would also grade their progress and show the student how well they have been improving. Finally, I would offer rewards to the student as positive reinforcement when they reach their goals.

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

I would help the student to understand the concept. I would use different teaching techniques to introduce the skill to the student. I would also administer assessments to make sure the student is fully understanding and able to apply the new information.

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

First, it is important to understand how an essay is composed. I would help students learn about the introduction, body and conclusion of an essay. Also I would teach them the concepts about the main idea and thesis statement. These concepts are important so students can understand how to find the answers to the questions within the reading essay. We would then go on to do many sample reading comprehension assessments to track the student’s progress.

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

First, you must establish a rapport with the students so they can feel comfortable studying with you. Also, it’s important to let the student know it's OK to make mistakes. The mistakes allow the student to learn. Finally, it is important to give an initial assessment to evaluate which areas the student needs improvement.

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

I make learning fun. I use different strategies and techniques to introduce new information. I get to know the student to understand their interests. Then I would teach them using analogies that apply to concepts of their interest.

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

I would ask follow up questions to reinforce the new information. I also give assessments to track student progress.

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

I use books and workbooks. I also use technology, including tablets, computers, laptops and smartphones. I also incorporate sample tests to track student progress.

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

I give continuous praise and positive reinforcement. I encourage the student to give their best efforts. Practice makes perfect and over time a student can conquer anything as long as they try.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I give assessments to evaluate which areas the student needs improvement.

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

I get to know the student to find out what type of learner they are. Then, I develop a tutoring syllabus tailored to that particular student. All students have their own syllabus because each student has their own strengths, areas of improvement and methods of learning.