How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can help a student become an independent learner by keeping a tutoring journal/workbook. The journal/workbook will contain examples of problem and process practice. Also, giving praise and encouragement through the hands on learning process. Through confidence the student will become more independent and confident to complete work with less guidance over time.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

You must stay positive, guide, and praise for taking a chance and also for the correct answer. Create a positive learning environment that is goal orientated and engaging.

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

Differentiation is needed to ensure the student remains open and positive towards the material. Learning games and songs can help in the process. For example, a student having problems learning three digit regrouping Math can be taught the rap subtraction song. It’s fun and can be used to learn and to lighten the tension if a student gets frustrated.

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

It is important to understand the components to reading comprehension. As the tutor, you can have the students read books aloud, provide a variety of books, and help students reread for fluency (chunking works, phoneme...etc.). Ensure the student is understanding the new vocabulary by reviewing; review phonics and discuss with the student what they read by asking cognitive based questions.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe every child is a unique individual that needs a place in which he/she feels safe in a stimulating atmosphere that fosters emotional, intellectual, and social growth. As an educator it is my desire to help students meet their fullest potential; in so doing I create an environment in which I am a guide to foster child's natural curiosity, exploration and understanding of the world through engagement and civic responsibility.

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

For the first session I would introduce myself. I'd ask the student to do the same (basic information). I would ask the student if they understanding the purpose of meeting today I would explain my role in helping them as their tutor (to help them gain a better understanding and to have confidence when working on (subject)). I would review over all goals and the goal for this session. I would let the student know we will review the session’s goals to see if the goal has been accomplished. I share that we will know by answering two – three questions at the end. Stress this will be the process each time we meet. Given that I have already reviewed the student’s assessments scores, I will begin working on the day’s objective by means of guided and engaged facilitation. Most of all, I will make sure the first experience is pleasant for the student.

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

When working with new students I will build a rapport starting with a simple introduction: my name, what grades I have taught, my favorite color or sports team. I would ask similar questions to students to ensure a minimum level of comfort. I'll ask the student some things they would like to work on... things they do not feel comfortable with. I'll share with them that this is reason why we will be meeting. I will outline goals and the session structures.

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

I would check for understanding by using the following approaches: ~avoid yes or no questions ~use 1 question quiz/assessment ~ask students reflective/probing questions ~use hand signs (thumbs up) ~Misconception check ~Journal (reflection on lesson)

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

Practice, practice, practice, and praise!

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I can evaluate a student's needs through formative or summative assessments including 1-3 question(s) assessment/quizzes/exit tickets, or a journal.

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

I adapt tutoring based upon their individual needs. Placement tests or assessments will provide the initial answer to the question. The ability to differentiate will allow for me to consistently meet the student where they are at, rather than guess.

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

The types of materials that I have used during a typical tutoring session include paper, pencil, workbooks/worksheets, white board & markers, flashcards, index cards, anchor chart(s), and technology.