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

When learning a foreign language, it is important for students to use the new words and grammar they are learning in as many different ways as possible. Students who practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a foreign language are most successful. I create activities using any or all of these techniques (depending on individual student needs) to help make sure each student understands and can successfully use the new material in each of these ways.

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

I start with what the student knows and can do successfully, and then show them how to take what they already know and apply it to what they need to learn. I make sure we practice the material not just until they get the answers right but until they know it well enough that they won't get the answers wrong. That is when you know you have mastered the topic.

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

I prefer to incorporate many different materials into the learning/tutoring process. I use flashcards to help teach vocabulary and grammar. I also like to incorporate authentic texts, advertisements, audio, and songs in Spanish. I also create games, activities, and practice exams to verify student understanding and to focus on areas that need improvement.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I work with each student to determine the ways in which they learn best. Then, I help them learn study techniques and problem solving methods they can use on their own for Spanish and other classes.