All of
Alan’s current tutoring subjects are listed at the left. You
can read more about
Alan’s qualifications in specific subjects below.
ACT Math
The ACT tests probe your general math skills with a series of multiple choice questions. Generally there's enough given data concerning each problem so that you can solve them readily if you write them down to see the relationships. No complicated equations or the knowledge of a difficult theorem is really needed. Just common sense and an ability to visualize the problem and read through the logic. But beware - this a timed test - meaning 'don't spend too much time on one problem'. work through the ones that seem the easiest then go back and work the harder ones'. By working them you can at least make an educated guess rather than spending more time trying to come up with the answer that agrees with the choices.
Algebra 1
Algebra 1 (first year) introduces to students the concepts of manipulating math variables, i.e. unknown quantities with which we set up equations to find (solve) them. In doing this students are learn the use of arithmetic operations to solve equations in algebra. Students are exposed to formulas and also how to convert or manipulate formulas to solve for specific values. Algebraic expressions are basic to the course as well as techniques to manipulate, simplify and evaluate them. These concepts and others carry over into all the levels of higher mathematics of which the first two years of algebra are a prerequisite. I coach all these aspects of the subject with students to teach and build up their confidence.
Algebra 2
Algebra 2 in comparison to algebra 1 presents wider mathematical inferences and implications of the basic theories of Algebra - that's why you need Algebra 1 completed first as it is the foundation that Algebra 2 builds on. Concepts such as exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, and the fundamentals of trigonometry are explored, hence even basic geometry should be considered a prerequisite. Equations of higher order are solved both analytically and graphically such as for example parabolic, elliptical and hyperbolic types and investigated to determine if they have a solution at all. Synthetic division is also introduced. It's a lot and the subject is broad - but you do a bit at a time - working both the examples, assigned problems and practice test problems is the best method to obtain success - mastery even!
English
English is our major language - Yes, but it is often taken for granted with regards to its own communications tools and powers. This is largely because most Americans and other English-speaking people fail to utilize the language in a deeper sense and put to use that depth to better and more accurately communicate ideas, instructions, commands, feelings, promotions, comparisons, analysis and the list goes on. Too many English speakers do not realize that a better, deeper command of the language leads to better, higher-paying jobs, enhanced reputation, and higher positions of responsibility. Communicating on a higher plane is a very worthwhile goal.
Flute
Along with brass instruments such as trumpet and french horn, I am also a flutist, having played the instrument for the last thirty years. I am self-taught and play the flute largely in church services. I have taught elementary flute for a local music school in the San Diego area for several years and also have worked as an independent teacher. I teach both elementary and intermediate flute. Posture, breathing correctly, technique and fingering procedures are stressed.
Geometry
Geometry is necessary and taking it enriches the mind because spatial things are considered, i.e. lines, triangles, polygons, spheres, etc. and the theorems that are related and characterize them. with algebra there's a lot of equation solving using quantitative & analytical skills - in geometry there is also the art of proving theorems using other theorems, definitions and postulates. Students exercise a new art of thinking - deductive (and sometimes inductive) logic. the student then has enriched his/her mind by gaining logical and spatial reasoning skills.
Prealgebra
Pre-algebra is a major stepping stone when you're a student studying numbers, quantities, relationships, etc. You're not just concerned with arithmetic - It's time for mathematics: you are now introduced to quantities, expressions and more advanced methods of calculations where values (numerical and unknown) are used. Pre-algebra is a very important bridge, and it also offers some new concepts such as manipulating fractions, working with percentages and even some fundamental probability problems. Patterns and ways to group and prioritize values are also introduced. Master pre-algebra and your laying the foundation for success in the higher mathematics - Algebra 1&2, geometry, trigonometry, etc.
Proofreading
Proofreading a document is not just about correcting spelling, punctuation or substituting more effective words to reflect the meaning or intent. It's all of those and more. Documents are frequently too short so they don't necessarily do justice to the topic. On the other hand, many are too long and verbose and the intended meaning might not be clear or specific enough. In either case documents do reflect the intelligence and experience of the writer. To proofread is to examine the document structure, clean up awkward sentences and possibly rewrite whole paragraphs; the goal is a succinct, short and effective one which addresses the issue in a clear, understandable way.
SAT Math
The SAT math testing exercises the math intellect of the student with regards to problem recognition and knowledge of the tools necessary to solve problems. Problems aren't confined to any one math field; they are based on the math subjects the student has studied through the middle and especially the high school years. The problems can appear tricky, but generally easy to solve using familiar relationship such as those learned in the algebra and geometry classes. Tests are timed so, if students can see the concepts the problem involves, they will be successful and, since the tests are timed, there are tricks to learn so that the students isn't spending too much time on any one of them.
Spanish
Spanish as with the other romance languages is colorful and lends itself as a rich communication avenue that's particularly effective when it comes to describing artistic, emotional thoughts, places and entities. Many words are either borrowed from the English and visa versa. The major differences are how the verbs are used and conjugated, sentence structure and the use of expressions. Once you get the hang of it, it's fun to speak it and you don't have to know all that much to start speaking it. As you speak and read it more, your vocabulary grows. Latin American and Spanish people, etc. really enjoy it when you try to communicate with them in their native tongue even though they are working hard to learn English. I've met many friends (amigos) that way. Good luck (Buena Suerte).
Trigonometry
Trigonometry is a fantastic and exciting outgrowth of geometry dealing with triangles and their angular relationships. The emphasis is on angles and the relationship of the angular functions, i.e. sines, cosines, tangents, and their relationships. Even more fascinating is how the dynamic change in these relationship are expressed in a unit circle which leads to rotational functions of which all energy waves can be derived. Trig is a very important "hinge" in the foundations of our physical sciences and engineering. It takes geometry to prepare for it and algebra to manipulate it.
Trumpet
I began trumpet/cornet lessons at the age of 9 - a 2nd grade student back in 1951 and have studied with five professional trumpet players during my career. Having performed with a variety of symphony orchestras, concert and swing/dance bands over the years I feel that I am well qualified to teach the instrument successfully. Should you decide to study trumpet and/or beg. flute I would be happy to work with you. With any wind instrument, good posture and correct breathing are essential for good tonality and musicianship. Good habits are produced which ensure mastery if you are willing to work at it.
Writing
Why do we write? To describe, to reflect, to share experiences, to convince, to gain, to get attention, etc. All of these are goals. But we want to do this with the goal in mind to impress, to be convincing, to accurate describe and to arouse the readers interest and leave a memorable impression. The problem is that beginning writers far to often over-write - long verbose sentences with accompanying limited vocabulary words. The writing hence is not necessarily enjoyable to read and is often rejected.
Writing should be accurate but more than that invoke positive feeling on the part of the reader - positive reader impression is the goal!