What is your teaching philosophy?

All students have the right to a quality education. Science is the pinnacle of connecting things that are in the text and curriculum to events that happen in their life.

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

Ask about them, as a person. If we're going to be spending quite a bit of digital time together, I feel like we should have a friendly relationship. I would also like to know about their strengths and weaknesses in the subject.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Showing students HOW to find the answer, rather than giving them the answer is a powerful tool. Teaching students how to THINK is a much more valuable life tool than correct science answers.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Digitally, this is tough. Some students need a physical motivation (candy, seat change, PBIS rewards) but that isn't possible through a webcam. Building off of a good relationship provides much-needed motivation for students.

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

With the Internet, and its vast resources, there are many different ways to approach a topic. Videos, hands-on activities, and news articles are all at our fingertips.

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

Finding a variety of resources at their reading level is a start. Finding interesting articles about the topic goes a long way to motivation and comprehension.

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

A friendly, upbeat, and welcoming attitude is all I can provide.

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

Science is an easier subject for students to find an interest in, as the subject is actually happening around them. Just about every topic in science has an impact on a student's life.

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

The phrase: 'Why does that happen?' Distinguishes between knowing the answer and understanding the concept.

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

A good relationship with the student goes a long way in confidence. Compliments and acknowledgment of hard work are great ways to build confidence.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

By asking them. By middle school, most students can identify the parts of school that frustrate them the most.

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

Being flexible. Whether it is going over a question again, using a different reading selection, or using a video to present the ideas, all of these will help students succeed.

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

I use videos, simulations, and state test style questions for familiarity.