All of
Tia’s current tutoring subjects are listed at the left. You
can read more about
Tia’s qualifications in specific subjects below.
American History
Some examples of areas in History I have expertise in are The Dust Bowl, instrumental men who helped shape America -- Cornelius Vanderbilt, John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, John Pierpont Morgan, Nikola Tesla and Henry Ford. The History Chanel also had a show that aired recently entitled, "The Men Who Built America." The History of The American West is one of my all-time favorites -- The Big Four of The Transcontinental Railroad; Manifest Destiny, Promontory Point in The Utah Territory; The role Mormons played in The American West; Native Americans and The Black Hills as well as Cavalry Commander Custer's mythology. I also have a great fascination for presidents, such as Washington, Lincoln, Eisenhower and Kennedy. I believe The History of The West is vital to our children's understanding of U.S. History as it talks about tremendous inventions but also how so many backgrounds came together to bring The United States together as truly, The U.S. is a "melting pot" of so many ethnic backgrounds and cultures.
Cosmetology
I have expertise in being a Make-Up Artist and understanding the needs of various skin types due to my having worked for Clinique Cosmetics for a couple of years. I have applied make-up for proms, weddings and special events. The key to being able to beautify a face is making sure that the skin is prepped appropriately -- whether you have dry, combination or oily skin. Also, having hydrated skin comes from within by drinking plenty of water. Understanding skin color and knowledge of foundations for skin concerns and types was vital to being a Clinique Consultant so I could best serve the clientele. As for eye makeup, I have a tremendous love for highly pigmented colors --M.A.C. eye shadows are one of my favorites but also Clinique, Dior, Sephora and Smashbox. However, I also do well with neutral colors, too! Although I worked for Clinique, I strive to use various cosmetic brands for variation in my tools. For example, foundations I love are Revlon's "ColorStay" and Urban Decay's "Naked;" Foundation Primers are Smashbox's "Photo Finish" and Sephora's Collection "Perfecting Ultra Smoothing." I also utilize a range of brushes for application of eye shadows, complexion powders, eyebrow-shading and blush. One last thing for application of any color to the cheekbones (blush) or eyelids (eye shadow) is to blend, blend, blend!
Elementary (K-6th)
Helping my two stepchildren (my son who is now in 4th Grade; my daughter who is now in 8th Grade) regularily with their homework, I have seen vast improvements in their belief in themselves. They have gained a stronger grasp of certain subjects due to my tutoring. Their grades have also improved to where they are achieving "A's" and "B's." For example, some of the subjects I have worked with them on are Math (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division), English (Spelling, Vocabulary Words and their definitions, writing complete sentences as well as paragaphs and punctuation), Reading (at least 20-30 minutes per night) and Social Studies (Cultures, Religions, Languages, Geography, U.S. and World History, Ancient Civilizations and Archeology, etc.).
Elementary Math
I have a great amount of experience with Elementary Math from working with my two stepkids. I have expertise with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, counting, word problems and ratios. In helping my children learn, I make it fun for them along with patience and a fun and goofy sense of humor. Thus, helping them become better skilled in Math, homework is more fun with a sense of humor!
English
While earning my Bachelor's degree in Communication, I also minored in English. I have tremendous experience in utilizing the English language whether it is via the written word or communicating in person. English spans the usage of proper: grammar, vocabulary, spelling, writing, reading, understanding literature and mastering the ability to communicate effectively. My experiences have involved numerous works in writing my dissertation, fictional stories and essays. I have helped my two stepchildren to read and utilize English properly in their essays and speaking while not using "slang." I can help all ages (2nd grade to college) in understanding and employing English properly.
Geology
My experience in Geology is terrific in that many Summers, I would take courses in Geology at The University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyoming -- a University highly regarded for its academia in Geology. I did field digs that also dealt in Paleontology. I understand a lot of topics in Geology such as Plate Tectonics (how islands are formed, "hot spots," earthquakes, various faults, mid-oceanic ridge spreading, etc.), The supercontinent "Pangea," various rocks --igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary, Geologic structures, Earth's formation, Weathering and Erosion, Volcanology and The Ocean Floor... As I love this subject VERY much, my brain has been a sponge that has soaked up so much information on this topic!
Study Skills
Various study skills are helpful to students in different ways. Working with my two stepchildren, I have instilled the use of "planners" and time management to help them stay organized but also helps them to prioritize which subjects to work on first for homework. I find to help with memorization, repetition is important such as writing something out a few times and re-reading key points. The use of acronyms and mnemonics also helps with memorization. I will also use drawings/diagrams and small summaries to help condense concepts. Also, I enjoy the use of flash cards to help with memorization as they are good as visual training.
Vocabulary
I believe strongly in constantly expanding one's vocabulary as it subtly shows your education. A vocabulary is the "meat-and-potatoes" for communication and obtaining knowledge. Having an extensive vocabulary is a common denominator in being able to comprehend a certain language as well as write and speak that specific language, such as English, for example. Also, for those preparing for their SAT exam or ACT exam, one of the sections is writing and having a good vocabulary will help a student in diction, grammar and usage. Reading helps increase a student's vocabulary, too.
Writing
During my Senior year in college, I presented my senior thesis, "The Effects Divorce has on Only-Children who are Daughters." It was a 110-page work that I interviewed 12 females to gain evidence in support of my hypothesis which turned into my thesis. I also have been thoroughly involved in writing fiction and taking creative writing courses. One of my stories, "Geology Bed Rocking," was published. I have an eye for punctuation and enjoy refining a piece of work until I feel it is reflective of my best talents.