All of
Ellen’s current tutoring subjects are listed at the left. You
can read more about
Ellen’s qualifications in specific subjects below.
English
As a college English instructor who teaches literature, writing technique and grammar, I use these classroom skills when I tutor students individually. The student benefits because I can focus on his or her personal strengths and struggles with the language, or with any particular assignment he or she needs to work on.
ESL/ESOL
I have taught English as a Second Language to adults at Training Resources in Brockton, Massachusetts. While I was at University of Massachusetts Boston, I was a teaching assistant in an English class specifically for non-native speakers of English; and I tutored the students in these classes individually as well. For three semesters at Northeastern University I taught College Writing and Writing for Graduate School to both undergraduate and graduate international students. Many of the students that I tutor are non-native speakers; they have told me that I have helped them considerably.
Grammar
As a college English instructor, I specialize in both Basic English and First Year English Composition. Both of these classes stress the fact that proper grammar is a vital component of all aspects of English writing. In my classes I focus on the grammar topics that present the most obvious problem, such as noun/verb/pronoun agreement, run-on sentences, and sentence fragments. Then I see what other problems seem to be evident in my students' writing assignments, or what problems seem to be troubling them the most. When I tutor, I focus on the individual student's grammar issues and work closely with the student to explain and clarify those issues.
ISEE
I have had many years' experience working with students to prepare for both the SSAT and the ISEE. The students feel more confident about the test after we have discussed and reviewed the vocabulary, reading, and math sections together. They learn more about the strategies needed to improve their scores.
Public Speaking
I have been teaching Public Speaking on the college level for five years. The course includes teacher's instruction and student participation in all types of speeches including personal statement, informative, persuasive, demonstrative and ceremonial speeches.
SAT Reading
The SAT verbal section consists of essay writing, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and grammar. I have been working with high school students on all of these portions of the SAT for over ten years. I can help students with strategies that are specifically focused on the SAT. Also, as a college English instructor, I constantly work with my students to improve the skills needed to do well in English, and as a private tutor I in address each of my student's individual needs.
SSAT
I have had many years' experience working with students to prepare for both the SSAT and the SSAT. The students feel more confident about the test after we have discussed and reviewed the vocabulary, reading, and math sections together. They learn more about the strategies needed to improve their scores.
TOEFL
I have worked with many non-native speakers of English who are preparing to take the TOEFL exam. I understand and can explain all of the different sections, including reading, speaking, writing and listening skills.
Writing
As an English instructor for first year college students, I focus on teaching the basics of English writing and beyond. Starting with simple sentence and paragraph structure to essays and longer papers. I can work with students on all aspects of grammar and writing style.