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

Get to know them by asking questions.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Have them start out with just going over their notes from school and getting a better understanding of what is going on. After this, I can have them write down questions that they may ask parents, teachers, or anyone else that is assisting them with their work.

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

Teach in a variety of ways to see the best way they understand. For example, I would teach by the book, then teach as their teacher would, then I would teach my way.

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

I would teach phonetics and assist them with words until they are comfortable sounding them out on their own.

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

Get to know them and their way of understanding! Ask questions, questions, and more questions if you want to figure out their understanding.

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

Find out their hobbies, their interests, and then teach in that manner. For example, if they like to cook then I will tell them you need math to measure liquids, add ingredients, etc.

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

I would ask them questions, and once they have their answer I would ask them how they found it.

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

I would explain to them that they don't have to really "like" the subject, but instead that they need knowledge of it to pass exams, classes, and standardized tests in order to get into college. I would also make sure they are well-rounded in all subjects, and I will let them know what career areas match their interests.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Questions and more questions. Practice and more practice.

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

Use various methods to find out the best way they learn.

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

Their book, computer, various teaching aids, and whatever else that is necessary to assist them.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I have to stay motivated, which allows them to potentially pick up on that motivation. It can encourage them to stay motivated, or at least pretend to be until it happens.