What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that every student is capable of learning and being successful in their studies. I look to engage students and better shape their understanding by drawing connections between their interests and strengths and the material that they are attempting to master. I believe in modeling strong study skills and strategies to aid the students in honing their approach to dealing with their strengths and weaknesses and improve their performance.

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

I would typically talk with a student to get an understanding of where they see their strengths and weaknesses. I would also ask to see samples of their work and give them a brief assessment to see where indeed their strengths and weaknesses lie.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can aid in a student becoming an independent learner by modeling what a strong writer and reader does when they set forth on a task or sit down to read any text set before them.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would help a student stay motivated by showing them how to deal with and overcome their frustrations. I would also show them how to connect their interests to their work and allow them to take ownership of the material.

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

I would work as long as possible and find any connection that will help clarify the skill or concept for the student.

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

I show the students strategies to allow them to better understand what they are reading. I focus on modeling strong pre-reading and post reading strategies as well as making them aware of the strategies they should be utilizing as they read.