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

Chat and find out why this subject is a problem for them. Explain how and what we will learn as tutoring continues, until they have a great understanding of the material.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

A student can become an independent learner if the tutor takes the time to find out how the student ticks. Learn the lesson plan that best helps the student to understand and grasp the subject.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Doing whatever it takes to bring the subject matter to life. Having pre-test games to motivate study for tests.

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

Discuss with the student what would help make the subject more interesting. Have a slide show ready for each area of the subject so the student can gain optimal understanding, as well as see the subject has it happens. I would also take a few minutes before and after to discuss what they find difficult and find a way to make the subject more understandable.

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

First explain that everyone learns a bit different, and we both will work to find ways to bring a sense of " I can do this" attitude. Most likely read together, work on words that are difficult to understand, and find definitions that will work best for the student.

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

Discussions are the key point to encouraging the student they will succeed, and finding what they like and don't like about the subject. Improving on what discourages and bringing life to the subject so the subject can be grasped.

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

Always bring the subject to life in a way the student can best understand. I keep the student engaged by giving challenging questions for the student to find and understand. I find out also, why the student does not enjoy the class, and bend it so it does become exciting and intriguing.

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

Students need things for it to come alive, assign movies to watch, have slide shows, and whatever else it takes to show the student the subject matter is always alive and useful.

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

When the student has overcome each assignment with better grades and a better outlook they gain confidence. The job of a tutor is to keep it exciting and alive. The more the student understands and comprehends, the more the student will stay engaged.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

The student needs to be able to discuss honestly where the hang up is. Being honest (not brutal) is the best way to achieve and understand the student's needs. Chats before the class and just at the end will also help the student open up more about their needs and how they best learn.

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

Leaving questions and answers always available, so the student doesn't feel behind. Be willing to bend the tutoring at first, and then trend back to a classroom environment. The student will progress well, if honesty and openness are available, and I am willing to change the lesson plan a bit to suit their needs.

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

The materials will be maps, but also humorous question and answer times and slide shows. Most importantly, what helps the student learn more.

What is your teaching philosophy?

There is not a subject in school that cannot be understood and mastered given the right tools and motivation. Everything (except bribery) is on the table, whatever it takes to bring the subject to life and understanding.