What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that all students are capable of learning, no matter what. Teachers should consider each individual student, making the lesson appropriately diverse, while incorporating different ways of learning. Multiple models and intelligence types should be considered in each lesson as well. Visuals, tangible objects, as well as both oral and written explanations will add to the learning environment and assist students to success. All in all, I wish to do this on a more obvious level, individualizing lessons for students so that they are able to accomplish everything within their reach.

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

I will likely give you an assessment to see how you learn best, and where your skills are in a subject so that I can adapt for future lessons.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Teaching self-assessment has been shown to be the highest factor when it comes to student success. By teaching students to create and constantly check what they've been doing, they become more independent.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Words of encouragement for sure, but on top of that I use small rewards and engaging activities to keep students motivated.

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

Teach it differently! No use sticking with something that isn't working.

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

We read. I give them passages while I read the same passage out loud. Learning this skill and identifying words is the best way to improve reading. After we are done with this passage, we answer questions, either written or orally. I will help break down what they don't understand through scaffolding.

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

Build a relationship first!

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

First, show off my own excitement of the subject! If I don't love it, how do I expect them to? Then make it relatable to what they do in their own lives. If it's not, they will have a harder time enjoying it and remembering it. Anything can be enjoyable if you want it to be!

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

Small assessment and just watching how they do with their activities. Once I can do this, I know where they are. This lets me know what they do and don't understand.

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

Start with the basics of what they already know. Build their confidence first before letting them continue to struggle.

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

Whatever the student needs to learn best. Games are my favorite! Anything to make it memorable.