
Michael
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: hobart college - Bachelors, Environmental Studies
ACT Composite: 32
SAT Composite (1600 scale): 1410
SAT Math: 800
Outdoor Activities, Sports, Music (guitar playing), Cooking, animals
What is your teaching philosophy?
My philosophy is to expose students to different styles of learning. By taking multiple approaches to solving problems, students learn not only how to answer the questions, but which strategies work best for them.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
Trust and confidence in your teacher is the most important aspect of a good learning environment. I want to learn about my students' interests, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and talk about what goals we will work to achieve.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
Focusing on specific strategies is the most useful way to become an effective learner. Some strategies include breaking down questions, using graphic organizers, making note/flash cards, using specific note taking methods, annotating texts, using quizzes, and creating hands-on demonstrations.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Often times, the best way to motivate is to listen. I look for subjects or topics that my students are already interested in and use them to connect to the material. Conversely, I want to know why certain areas are challenging for students. They often relate small hiccups to large failures, or become intimidated by new material and just need the setting to be reframed.