What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that each student is unique and should be evaluated as an individual. My approach is to first assess the student's baseline abilities and then work with the student, and parent(s) if applicable, to create a personalized plan for improvement. I feel that it is very important to gain and maintain the student's buy-in throughout the learning process and work to keep activities productive and engaging.

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

The objective of a first session is to define goals and create an action plan. First I speak with the student, and parent(s) if the student is a minor, to understand what s/he hopes to accomplish. Next I'll assess the student's baseline abilities in the subject(s) specified. I'll then translate the student's objectives into actionable SMART goals and create a plan for the upcoming sessions.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

In order to become an independent learner, a student needs to have the tools and skills to complete work without assistance. I believe that teaching the student how to find an answer is more important than teaching the student the specific material in question. I teach students how to work to the best of their ability and what to do when they're stuck on an assignment. It's also important that a student feel responsible for his or her work and utilize me as a resource build his or her own skills. I use SMART goals to track progress and hold students accountable.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

In the first session, I ask the student about his or her goals. Reminding the student of these goals is important to keep him or her motivated. I use SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) goals to track the student's progress. I also work to keep the sessions engaging and productive, so the student will want to participate.

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

I would first reevaluate my teaching method based on the student's learning style. There may be a better way to present the concept. I would also try to relate the challenge to a skill or concept that the student has already mastered.

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

First I would read through a passage with the student and ask the student to highlight the key points. If the student is able to select the key points, then s/he may just be skimming the material too quickly. If s/he is not able to pick out the key information, I would highlight the main points and then ask the student if s/he knows why they are important. I feel that it is important that these students find something (whether novels, comics or articles) that they like to read and read on a regular basis.