
Kriss
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: University of Maryland-College Park - Bachelors, Communication
Live performance, mindfulness, health and wellness, style and culture, universal law, food, makeup
College English
Comparative Literature
Elementary School Math
High School English
What is your teaching philosophy?
The aim at all times, is connection. Connect with the student where they are, and they will find their purpose in the text and in their response.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
First, I get acquainted with the student and their expectations, needs and strengths. I use these items to write a Learning Plan as a guide for future sessions. Next, I take the student through “Show What You Know”, an assessment based on general information learned at their grade level. Throughout the session, I make it a point to build a genuine understanding and spark a positive connection with the student. This could mean "About Me" icebreakers or other activities that divert from any potential anxiety associated with the learning process as they know it. Finally, I collaborate with the student to construct a learning plan that works best for them. This way, they feel a sense of ownership, accountability, and enthusiasm about their progress.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I advocate for incentives, reset activities, and agenda-setting so their progress feels more tangible and visible to them. When they see how far they've come and what's left, they realize the task at hand isn't so big after all.