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

Chat about students' interests outside of school (hobbies, etc.). Ask about students' goals for college and career. Share something about myself. Assess prior knowledge.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By gauging how much assistance a student needs, I provide that amount of help, and, from there, I back off as appropriate until the student finds that they are becoming independent. I have students observe me self-talk through a problem so they can hear a thought process that may be different than what they have been using; a new approach.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Stop and take a step back. No pressure, no stress. Often, especially in math, an entire step was missed in school or a concept was not well solidified. Have the student talk me through a problem so I can follow their chain of thought. That is a good place to spot the issue. Go back and review those weak areas and continue to "spot check" those skills in each session until student feels comfortable with them.