What is your teaching philosophy?

Keep it simple student!

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

I will do an interview. I will attempt to understand how the student is thinking -- in detail or short and sweet!

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Don't be lazy! A student is one who studies. If you can eat, drink, and breath daily, then why can't you study daily. Apply yourself.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Take a break from studying. Sunday through Thursday study, and Friday and Saturday take a break! Make studying a challenge -- and accept the challenge.

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

We read more. The more you read, the more you begin to comprehend. Don't be afraid to use a dictionary. Ask questions. Have someone read to you. A picture is worth a thousand words. Formulate an image in your mind of what you read!

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

Make every effort to understand the questions they are not asking when they ask their question. Answer to the point each step. Do practice problems. Allow the student to come up with the answer by following the concepts.

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

It's hard to get excited about a subject you don't like. Struggling and dislike usually go hand in hand. Have lively discussions about the pros and cons of the subject/topics. Challenge them and hold them accountable for assignments and material.

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

Practice assignments step by step; practice quizzes. Have the student do a practice lecture on the topic to show his or her understanding of the material.

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

Practice, practice, and more practice. Use grading to show progress. Have lively discussions about topics.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Open discussions and written assignments will help.

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

I am flexible in my approach. The interview may need to be revised. I would listen to how he or she responds to other subjects.

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

Calculator (or laptop computer), pencil (not pen), eraser, writing tablet, graph paper, and ruler.