Quirky and strange in an entertaining way, I like to make sure the learning setting is fun and interesting. Before a student can learn well, they have to want to. I focus on making sure the student is learning in an engaged manner and break down material so that I can identify their specific needs and struggles. Every student is an individual and learns in unique ways.
I studied physics in college and have always excelled in math. When I learn, I need to fully understand the ins and outs of a concept before I can move forward. I am not satisfied to just apply a formula, I want to know where it comes from, why it works, and what it means. The thorough manner in which I have learned math enables me to explain it well. Instead of just drilling homework problems, I can see what specific point a student is struggling with and address it tactically.
After the work required to earn a bachelor's, physics is my specialty along with calculus (which Newton invented for Physics and I often used). Correspondingly, I have often employed and kept fresh both algebra and trigonometry.
The last few years of my life have included working as a teaching fellow, rafting guide, camp counselor, international service trip leader, and snowboarding instructor. In each of these positions I worked with high school students and in some I worked with middle school aged students and younger. I like to think that I work well with students and that they enjoy working with me. As a teaching fellow, I co-taught a pre-calculus class which included lecturing, homework planning, test preparation, and helping with homework. At the same time I tutored and consulted for the physics and calculus classes.
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