What is your teaching philosophy?

The best approach to mastering challenging science and math topics is to always ask "Why?" and "How?"

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

My first session always involve me observing how my students answer questions. I ask them to explain their incorrect answers, and in the process get them to realize where they went wrong in their approach. Getting the right answer without understanding "why" is pointless. In the short term, this approach might seem long and tedious, but it is very effective at establishing a solid foundation.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Effective learning begins with sound and proven techniques. If you master all sides of a challenging topic and are capable of teaching others, then you are well on your way to becoming an independent learner.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

The best approach to getting my students to be motivated about a challenging topic is to begin with an easy related topic. Once I get them to be confident in their abilities, they become motivated to excel on their own.

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

I would begin by teaching them the basics, and gradually introduce aspects of the challenging topic. To make sure I am getting through, I would ask them questions along the way. Once I am done, we switch roles; and they must teach me everything I would need to understand the topic in question.

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

The only way to improve is to continuously practice.

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

There is no "one size fits all" approach. Some students need to be pushed, while some know what needs to get done. Regardless, my expectations are the same.

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

Start with the basics, and work towards the difficult topic. In the process, their confidence increases. Greater confidence leads to better outcomes.

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

I always ask the student to switch roles and teach me. In addition, I have plenty of worksheets that would get the point across.

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

Start with an easy related topic, and slowly work toward challenging topics.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Listening goes a long way to having effective tutoring sessions.

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

I always ask my students for feedback. If the suggested changes are warranted, then I implement them right away.

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

Worksheets and any relevant standardized exam questions.