What is your teaching philosophy?

My philosophy is to teach the rules. If a student learns the rules, they can solve anything.

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

I would introduce myself and have them tell me about themselves. I would like to get to know them before we begin.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

A student becomes independent when they can answer their own questions. I will show them what questions to ask.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I will show them the importance of learning math, and show them how it can boost their income.

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

We'd take a break for a minute for a walk. Then, we'd come back and approach it from a different angle.

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

I break every word down instead of looking at everything at once.

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

Breaking everything down to each step and each rule. You don't need everything at once, just the next step.

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

I find a way to relate it to what they are interested in. Money is usually a good motivator.

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

I would ask the student to explain the topic. If they can explain it, they understand it.

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

Find something they understand or are good at. Compliment them on it.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Look at and evaluate their work. I also ask them how they feel about a topic.

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

I constantly assess. My toolbox is full; I adjust what tool I use based on a student's needs.

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

Personal dry erase board, calculators, pencil and paper, compass and protractor. Whatever a student needs.