What is your teaching philosophy?

Organizational skills are the greatest tools to becoming an independent and dedicated learner. I think finding ways to motivate yourself, stay on track, and break up work so it doesn't feel quite so overwhelming is the best first step to being an independent learner.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Students are all motivated by different things. The best way to know how to help motivate a student is to get to know them and figure out which "carrot" they want to chase. That said, sometimes it's hard not to get bogged down by stress, or just life in general. I think being a support system, someone to talk to, is often the BEST way to motivate someone. Be an advocate for their own effort.

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

Find a place where you can connect what they like with what you're doing! As an English and writing teacher, there's no shortage in places to meet students where they are. Even if it comes down to thinking of writing as a game, any little connection helps!

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

I would ask the student to summarize or paraphrase the assignment/material in their own words. Essentially, teach ME what it is you're learning. When someone is able to teach a concept coherently, they know the material.

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

Reinforcing the positive is the best way to build confidence. It's always better to show where you're doing something RIGHT, even if it's not 100%, than to only point out what's wrong.