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

I utilize discussion and a hands-on approach to ensure that a student understands the material. For example, students will revise papers until they fulfill the necessary components of rubric and assignment prompt/focus.

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

I build a student's confidence in a subject through support and encouragement. I also build confidence by developing an atmosphere of excellence and diligence.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I evaluate a student's need through discussion and work samples.

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

I adapt my tutoring to a student's needs by assessing their skill level and basic academic need and building from that ascertained point. For example, if a student is assigned a five paragraph essay and clearly does not understand the structure or how to build a thesis statement, I start there and begin teaching those important concepts.

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

The materials I use to teach writing are often the materials the student brings to the session. Namely, their paper and their instructor's guidelines and rubric. However, I can also provide my own rubrics as well as many different writing resources to teach all aspects of academic writing.

What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is one of mentorship and support. It is my desire to help students become confident, competent, and articulate writers. I prefer to support and develop what the student brings to the table rather than bringing forward my own specific agenda.

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

In a typical first session with a student, I would spend time getting to the know the student, their background, and their current academic need. I would assess their areas of need and begin to make a plan for moving forward.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I encourage all students to become independent learners by instilling confidence and providing resources. I hope to motivate students to take initiative and work hard to produce excellent work.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I help students stay motivated by focusing on the end goal of the instruction and by presenting a worthy hope- whether it be the goal of an improved grade, their college choice, or the just the satisfaction of knowing they have honed their skills with excellence. I also offer encouraging words and kind support.

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

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, I provide examples to demonstrate how to practically implement that skill. I will also provide resources and practice assignments as needed.

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

I help students who are struggling with reading comprehension in several ways. First, if there is a specific school assignment that is at hand- we will work through that together slowly and steadily. I ask questions to discern their understanding. Secondly, I might assign some reading at a level comfortably low for the student that is also intriguing and exciting. I have found that reading practice helps reading comprehension. Thirdly, I might research and provide resources that can specifically target this skill and work with these during sessions with the student.

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

The strategies that are most successful depend on each student and the tutoring need presented. In general, it is best to be encouraging, positive, and supportive.

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

I would help a student get excited about a subject they are struggling in by presenting a broader picture than the one they can currently see. I also try to think creatively about the subject and inspire the student to see beyond the struggle to something greater. If a student is struggling with reading, I would seek to foster a love of learning and reading through excellent literature. This can provide a gateway to an engaged, encouraged student.