
Rachel
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, Spanish, International Studies, Global Cultures
Graduate Degree: Liberty University - Current Grad Student, Public Policy
Traveling and exploring new places; learning about other cultures and languages; being creative: scrapbooking, crafts, painting, drawing; outdoor activities: camping, hiking, skiing, biking, tennis; playing cards and board games; singing and dancing; reading; watching TV and movies.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
We would discuss expectations of each other and what the student expects to get out of the tutoring sessions, including lesson ideas and structure. I would find out how much he or she already knows about the subject matter.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
I would teach the student how to check his or her work by referring to general principles and guidelines. I would show the student where to look for answers to their questions in the materials they have and how to use those materials efficiently.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I would remind the student of the benefits of studying and understanding the subject matter. For example, math may be important for creating a household budget or getting a good grade in history may be important for getting into college.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I would help the student outline the passage and break it down into smaller sections, looking at the sequence of actions and their consequences. I would also ask the student questions about the passage and help him or her to search the passage for answers.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
I would try to relate the subject to the student's interests and life. I would also help the student understand how being successful in that subject will help them in school and life.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I would give the student written assessments, ask him or her questions about the material, and have the student demonstrate their knowledge.
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
I base my material on the student's requests (for example, the student might request to learn particular vocabulary) and focus on areas in which the student is struggling. I also use the teaching methods which are most useful for the student (if the student learns better visually, then I will draw more pictures and diagrams).
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
I gauge the student's knowledge of the subject matter and find out their goals for the tutoring sessions. This helps me plan lessons.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
Practice makes perfect! I have the student practice until they feel comfortable with the material. When they improve their skills, their confidence is boosted.