What is your teaching philosophy?

My philosophy in teaching is knowing that every learner is unique, and learns at different speeds and in different ways. The instructor's goal is, therefore, to find out how their students learn and guiding the student in assessment and progress.

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

In a typical first session, I would try and get to know the interests of the student and what they want the lessons to focus on. I would either ask them to bring in any materials they had on the subject and, if possible, I'd bring my own.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can help a student become an independent learner by teaching study skills and self-evaluation methods.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would get to know the student to understand what motivates them. I also create a portfolio so that the student can see how they have been progressing.

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

If a student is having difficulty learning a skill or concept, I would observe them working and also ask them what part they are having difficulty with. If needed, I would create an assessment. I would reteach using a different teaching method.

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

I would need to assess what is causing the student to struggle with reading comprehension the most. I would teach strategies that would boost the student's reading comprehension. Examples include: I would teach the student different questioning types so they know what the question is really asking, such as summary, point of view, etc. I would do vocabulary exercises and try to break down words. I would teach the student general comprehension strategies, such as going back to check for information each question and highlighting important words.

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

I believe getting to know the student and tailoring the material is the key for success. Additionally, I like to create a binder the student can keep so they can see how they have been improving and what they have been focusing on in class.

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

I would motivate the student by bringing in real-life examples that included the student's interests and being as "hands-on" as possible.

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

Asking the higher order questioning will help develop a deeper understanding of the material. Having the student justify their answers shows that the student knows the material. Informal assessments before, during, and after the lesson also guide the teacher on the student's comprehension of the material.

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

I would help build the confidence of a student by first keeping the material relevant and interesting. I would try to develop independent learner skills in the student so they are self-checking and are aware of their strengths and weaknesses. I would encourage the student to ask questions about the material while I would ask higher order questioning.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I would listen to what the student and their parents say they want to achieve the most out of the lesson. I would then develop an assessment to see the strengths and areas of improvement of background knowledge and the subject needed. I think it is important to set goals with the student so that you can see progress over time towards the goals.

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

Every student is unique and will have different learning styles and strengths. I will adapt to each student's needs to help them be successful.

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

As a certified teacher, I have used many materials to make subjects more "hands on." From pizza fractions to digital flashcards, I will strive to make interesting and relevant lessons.