What is your teaching philosophy?

I was taught to not stop studying for a subject until I can teach it to someone a few years below me. This philosophy has helped me greatly and would be very conducive to tutoring. I view the students I work with as peers; I approach each subject as if I am also taking that class and also want to do well on whichever test is coming up.

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

Watch them approach a problem to see how they think.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Teach them study skills tailored to their individual abilities and preferences.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I think that's really up to them, isn't it?

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

Try a different approach!

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

Probably advise them to read more. Fantasy novels are a great place to start. There's also that nice "What is the author trying to say in this paragraph?" trick.

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

Again, watch them try the problem(s) before you say anything. It works wonders and sometimes they figure it out by themselves.

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

I don't believe in trying to manipulate people into liking subjects they don't like. But if it's something I enjoy I'll share why I enjoy it and see if it speaks to them.

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

Have them teach it back to me.

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

Practice problems! Constantly quizzing them.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Again, watch them try the problem(s).

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

I would adjust my speed and depth of explanation based on his or her abilities and interest.

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

Pencil and paper.