Walter S.

Let me be your guide to a success-filled future! I have a broad range of educational experiences - both domestic and international - that can be a great benefit. In addition to serving in faith-based ministries for 30 years, I have also taught at the high school level in both Chicago and China. My specialties include English as a Second Language, English writing, English grammar, English vocabulary as well as preparation for English proficiency tests. I am also highly qualified to teach in the Social Sciences and the Humanities - particularly history, geography, religion, philosophy. Having traveled throughout the world and having lived in China allows me to give the student an unique perspective to their studies. I bring creativity, humor and expertise to the entire range of learning!

Walter's Subjects

Music:	music history
English:	ACT English, ACT Reading, Bible studies, English, ESL/ESOL, grammar, literature, proofreading, public speaking, reading, SAT reading, SAT writing, TOEFL, vocabulary, writing
Test Preparation:	ACT English, ACT Reading, SAT reading, SAT writing, TOEFL
Computer:	Macintosh
Language:	ESL/ESOL, TOEFL
History:	American history, European history, geography, music history, religion, social studies, world history
Special Needs:	phonics
Elementary Education:	grammar, phonics, reading, spelling, study skills, vocabulary
Business:	public speaking
Corporate Training:	ESL/ESOL, grammar, proofreading, public speaking
Homeschool:	English, ESL/ESOL, reading, SAT reading, study skills, writing

American History

I have had a "love affair" with virtually all aspects and eras of American history. Having grown up on the East Coast, colonial, revolutionary and civil war history has been my specialty. In addition, I am well-read in Native American history as well as the westward expansion of the country. Finally, I keep up-to-date with current events and how they fit into the whole scheme of American history.

Vocabulary

I like to think that vocabulary is word power. There may be as many as a million words in the English language, and having a good 'handle' on a lot of these words gives students the advantage in today's world. I have a good vocabulary of my own. Not only that, but I have a battalion of resources at my disposal to help enhance my own word base as well as that of others.

Grammar

I have had a long history of editing and writing. I understand the 'ins and outs' of English grammar and can successfully help my students to gain the same understanding. Grammar, correctly understood, can be a gateway for the budding writers and speakers out there!

European History

I am well-read in all types of history, from ancient times to the present. Because of the deep European influence that continues in America, I have studied and am conversant with European history of the past 2000 years. I can help the student prepare for European history exams, including AP.

Reading

I love to read. I love to read a variety of prose and poetry. I do not restrict myself to one type of genre. I read novels and then history, followed by essays and then other non-fiction. I can help a student better appreciate and understand what it is they are reading, as well as give them strategies with which to approach the task of reading.

Writing

For decades I have been writing. I have been writing for publication. I have been writing for spoken communication. In addition, I have helped others to do the same as I have taught them and as I have edited their work. I can help both native-born Americans with their writing skills as well as those for whom English is a second language. Written English has the power to move people, inspire people, motivate people and challenge people. I can help students find, within their own writing, the ability... Read More

Geography

There are few people who appreciate or understand geography. Geography, however, really is a fascinating study that touches not only on land features, but also on global politics and so on. I could help the students appreciate the various geographies that make up our planet as well as the inhabitants who dwell in those various locations.

English

I have had a long experience both with oral and written English. I can help with all aspects of the English language: vocabulary, grammar, fluency, pronunciation, writing, reading, listening and speaking. Having taught English for a number of years allows me to be of help to students wishing to improve their English skills.

Literature

I am well-read in literature - particularly American literature. I can help students navigate through the various techniques and literary devices that authors use and thus help them gain a deeper appreciation of what they're reading - both prose and poetry. It is the in the field of literature that one encounters and embraces the beauty of the English language.

World History

I love history. I read history continuously. World history is a subject that few venture into, probably because American history or Western history is considered enough. But what of the history of China or of Southeast Asia or the continent of Africa? History has been 'happening' there as well. I can help students embrace a truly global outlook by introducing them to the histories of the peoples of our planet.

Proofreading

I have had many years of experience editing and proofreading the writings of others as well as those of myself. I have a very good understanding of English grammar, writing styles, vocabulary and so forth. In addition, I have quite a few resources that I can bring to bear to help with the proofreading task.

SAT Reading

One of the things I bring to the table is the ability to read and comprehend many different types of reading material: Essays, academic, prose, poetry, etc. Having such a wide background in reading will help stimulate and encourage students wishing to do well on the SAT Reading test. In addition, I can point out strategies that a student can use to increase their scores.

SAT Writing

I have had decades of successful experience writing - both for oral as well as written communication. The writing task is something I can help students improve upon - especially as it touches the SAT. Proper understanding of grammar, writing styles and vocabulary are essential to doing well on the SAT. I can help.

TOEFL

I have had over 10 years experience tutoring students - both locally and globally - in the English language. Most recently, I have worked in China for over 2 years where my chief responsibility has been teaching spoken English as well as preparing students for IELTS and TOEFL.

Spelling

Long before 'spell check', I have been a stickler for correct spelling. Indeed, for several years I was the 'caller' of our school's annual Spelling Bee. Good spelling (along with other aspects of English) helps students demonstrate not only a command of the English language, but also that they are intelligent individuals. I can help student dissect words, understand their derivations and then gain a strategy for knowing how to spell correctly.

ACT Reading

One of the things I bring to the table is the ability to read and comprehend many different types of reading material: Essays, academic, prose, poetry, etc. Having such a wide background in reading will help stimulate and encourage students wishing to do well on the ACT Reading test. In addition, I can point out strategies that a student can use to increase their scores.

ACT English

I am particularly strong at both vocabulary and grammar and thus feel that I could benefit the student wishing to perform well at the ACT English portion. In addition I can impart reading and comprehension skills as the student seeks to improve his/her English abilities.

Music History

During my days in college I was a music minor, focusing on composition and music history. I have fairly knowledgeable about not only Western music, but the music of other cultures and ethnicities.

Phonics

My experience teaching and tutoring English for over 10 years has enabled my to be conversant with different types of phonetic programs (IPA, American Heritage, Merriam-Webster). I am able to teach English pronunciation for both the USA and the UK versions of the language. I can help the student learn the "rules" of pronunciation so that they themselves can determine how to pronounce.

Study Skills

I can help students improve their study skills at various levels: time management, reading for comprehension, memorization, and the creative use of sources. I believe that learning IS fun and that the joy of learning is contagious. I believe that I can help students find what works for them and have fun in the process.

Religion

I am an ordained Lutheran pastor (retired) with 30 years experience - both in the parish and in teaching. I served as a part-time theology instructor at a local Lutheran high school for 8 years before moving to China. I have taught Bible studies to both adults and teens. I keep current with the latest theological books and ideas and am able to communicate about the Bible and theology on a broad, global level. I am also well-versed with several world religions: Islam, Buddhism and Judaism - as... Read More

ESL/ESOL

I have over a decade of experience in both tutoring and teaching English as a Second Language. I have tutored students from UIC, Roosevelt, IIT and Northwestern since 2000. In addition, I lived and worked in China for two and a half years, teaching English. I have helped students successfully prepare for both IELTS and TOEFL. I am creative, energetic and enthusiastic in my approach.

Bible Studies

Public Speaking

I have been engaged in public speaking for over 30 years - developing, writing and presenting sermons, lectures and presentations throughout that time. I have also coached students preparing to give speeches in school - especially ESL students who are trying to learn the art of public speaking.

Macintosh

I am a "Mac" person and have been for decades. I currently own the latest MacBook Pro (just got it two months ago) and am conversant with the "ins" and "outs" of using OS X Lion. I am also conversant with PCs (owning an ASUS Eee netbook - Windows XP) and can help students adapt from one to the other.

Social Studies

My love for history, geography and the social sciences prepares me for tutoring students in social studies. I am well-read in the cultures and histories of other countries as well - particularly Asian and African. I believe that I am truly a cross-cultural student/teacher that can share this broad view of the world and its societies with students at both the high school and university level.

Read all subject qualifications »

Education

Concordia Senior College Concordia Theological Seminary (Other)

Hourly Fee

Standard Hourly Fee: $30.00

With Prepaid Discount: $25.50 - $28.50

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Travel Policy

Walter will travel within 15 miles of Wood Dale, IL 60191.

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