What is your teaching philosophy?

Every student can learn, and every student learns differently. An effective teacher identifies a student's learning style and uses this knowledge to help the student progress faster.

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

First of all, I want to know who you are! We'll spend about 5-10 minutes talking and getting to know each other. Then we will set SMART goals so we can regularly assess your progress. You will spend some time telling me what you already know, and what you'd like to learn. Then we'll dig into the material!

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Making connections between what the student is learning, what the student has already learned, and the student's life experiences will provide the student with a learning method that makes the material stick.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

The student and I will review the long-term goals at the beginning of the session, and set a goal to achieve by the end of the session. The student will be able to see their progress, and determine which areas need more study.

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

Before the student reads the book (picture book), I would "pre-read" the book by having the student look at the illustrations and predict what the book will be about. The student will write down their prediction. As we read, I will ask questions, beginning with simple questions and gradually progressing to more difficult questions. At the end, the student will summarize the story and decide if their prediction was correct.

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

Having positive energy and showing excitement about learning will set the stage for successful tutoring sessions. Taking the time to get to know the student is also very important. At first, I will try a variety of learning methods to see what works best for the student.

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

I would ask the student what their hobbies and interests are, and use that as a starting point to connect the subject material with the student's life experiences. I would also ask the student if there is anything going on that is making it difficult for them to succeed. An uncaring teacher, for example, is very unmotivating! This way, I will have a full understanding of the situation, and teach accordingly.

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

I would review the material in many different ways, depending on the subject and age of the student. Once I am confident that the student understands, I will have the student teach me what they have learned.

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

Using praise and being specific when rewarding a student will help the student build confidence. Reward the small achievements so the student can see that they are capable of doing the work. Once the student understands a difficult skill or concept, do a victory dance! Making learning fun will help build a student's confidence.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I take the time to get to know each student. Every student has different goals and learning styles. I use a variety of teaching methods and notice which ones are most effective with each student. I also check in with the student to ensure that the material we are covering will help the student achieve their goals.

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

I use the materials that the student is working with. If possible, I review the material ahead of time. I also have a variety of general tools, including a whiteboard, flashcards, and hand puppets to keep younger students engaged.

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

I get to know the student and what their short and long-term goals are. I also use a variety of teaching methods, and adapt my teaching as necessary so the student understands the material.