What is your teaching philosophy?

As a teacher, it's my goal to ensure that the learning process is student focused. Instead of having students passively listening, I feel that students learn best when they are engaged, active, and a part of process. Being student focused means I'll do whatever is necessary to ensure I'm effective as can be. That may require me to utilize a different teaching style or approach a particular topic from a unique angle.

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

I believe it is key to identify the strengths and weaknesses of a student--both perceived and actual. I begin with a discussion of where the student would like to improve, what they're looking to gain, etc. Then, I believe it necessary to see at what level they are currently. For English, seeing a recent essay or writing sample is a great way to gauge their ability. For math, more than just a test, giving the student problems to work through and discussing them. Hearing the student's thought process and reasoning is more valuable than seeing they got the correct answer.

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

Every concept can be approached and/or explained a different way. If a student were struggling to grasp it one way, I'd show him/her another way. Some students are audible learners while others are more visual/logical/etc. I'd try to see which style of teaching worked best and frame my teaching around that.

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

I've found that the more a student improves in a subject, the more they're engaged and excited. Thus, I'd try to highlight the progress they've made and focus on maintaining a positive attitude. Comparing where they are now to when they started will help show how far along they've come.