
Shoshana
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: Northeastern University - Bachelors, Spanish
Graduate Degree: Emperor's College of Traditional Oriental Medicine - Current Grad Student, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dance, Spanish conversation, Yoga, traveling
Adult Literacy
American Literature
College English
College Level American Literature
Conversational Spanish
Elementary School Reading
Elementary School Writing
High School English
High School Level American Literature
High School Writing
Middle School Reading
Middle School Reading Comprehension
Middle School Writing
Spanish 1
What is your teaching philosophy?
My approach to tutoring, and what I believe engages my students, is my ability to make the information they are learning relatable and interesting to their lives. I love to incorporate songs, stories, and colloquial language to allow the students to become interested, and then a little bit more receptive to some aspects of the language that may not seem that exciting, such as grammar. Additionally, since I am so familiar with the language in many different aspects (literary, classical, Old English plays and Shakespearean works), I can really see where exactly a student is struggling with the language, even if they may not be able to identify it, and be able to help them see where the confusion is occurring, identify it, and come up with a solution and a way to remember the rule (i.e. incorporating an acronym or mnemonic). Beyond this, I am incredibly approachable and eager to hear student's concerns or misunderstandings. Although I incorporate educational systems that work for many students, tutoring is always still a slightly individualistic approach. My understanding of the different learning styles allows me to be able to adjust my approach to fit the needs of each particular student. For example, if a student is a kinesthetic learner, we may incorporate some kind of physical game into the session to help them better remember and understand the material. If a student is a visual learner, I will bring in the use of charts, graphs, and colors to deepen their understanding.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
Get to know where they are with the language, and figure out what is not being completely understood.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
Quizzes, worksheets, and interactive exercises where the student has to answer and speak from their mind, without having the time to check a book.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
All kinds! I love to incorporate songs, stories, and games. Of course, worksheets and exercises too.