All of
Ellen’s current tutoring subjects are listed at the left. You
can read more about
Ellen’s qualifications in specific subjects below.
Algebra 1
I have taught Algebra I, II and Geometry for many years. These courses, usually studied in grades 8-10, are the foundation for every student who wants to understand and succeed in math in the future.
Algebra 2
Your child can have "math confidence", be more independent in doing their homework and get better grades by getting her/him support for Algebra 2. NOW IS THE TIME - Algebra 1 introduced many topics and skills which will be PRACTICED A LOT in Algebra 2. If your child has come this far but still has problems with math skills, it's not too late - she/he can catch up and even become fond of math! Algebra 2 is very important to master, as there are 2 or more years of math in the future. Give your child a much better chance for success in learning these Algebra 2 Topics: 1. Equations and inequalities, 2. Points, lines, and functions, 3. Systems of equations, 4. Polynomials, 5. Fractional expressions, 6. Powers and roots, 7. Complex numbers, 8. Quadratic equations and functions, 9. Circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, and systems of equations, 10. Exponential and logarithmic equations, 11. Permutations, combinations, and basic probability, 12. Matrices.
Elementary Math
For college-minded parents, elementary school is the most important time to invest in your child's education, and math is a key subject to work on.
The child who doesn't quite "get" arithmetic, and who doesn't achieve high scores in arithmetic tests, will internalize the harmful idea that, "I'm not good at math." Many children carry this idea into adulthood and may avoid quantitative and technical careers.
I am a certified math teacher with many years teaching experience who will help your child catch up and become proficient at fulfilling the requirements of elementary school math. I am very hands-on, and give students lots of problems to solve for the practice they need to really master the topics. Each topic builds on the next, so the student feels satisfaction at each level and eager to move on to the next.
In this way, math becomes interesting, fun, and a source of pride for your student.
Geometry
Often coming between Algebra I and Algebra II, Geometry is the study of the properties and uses of geometric figures in two and three dimensions.
Main topics include: triangles, circles, proofs, polygons and three-dimensional figures, and trigonometry.
Many concepts learned in Algebra 1 are used. A SOLID FOUNDATION in Geometry will ensure success in Algebra II and Precalculus.
ISEE
Start this summer to prepare your child for the ISEE. Students whom I have tutored in the ISEE have been admitted to the Boston exam schools. I provide test-taking strategies, math/English content instruction and confidence-building. I am a certified teacher, have taught hundreds of students, and they benefit from my experience.
Your child will have an advantage in getting into the school of your choice, and will also be ahead of the game this September in school. They will have gained a large vocabulary, reading and writing skills, and a rigorous and interesting course of study of math topics and concepts; all is geared toward preparation for the ISEE.
The ISEE is the entrance exam for Boston's exam schools and many Boston area private schools. The exam results in a ranking of students in the same grade.
The ISEE is typically held in November in the Boston area for admission the following September.
The ISEE has three test levels, Lower, Middle and Upper. The Lower Level test is for students currently in grades 4 and 5 who are candidates for admission to grades 5 and 6. The Middle Level test is for students in grades 6 and 7 who are candidates for grades 7 and 8. The Upper Level test is for students in grades 8 through 11 who are candidates for grades 9 through 12.
At all levels, the ISEE consists of 4 or 5 parts, depending on the requirements of the school you are applying to: (a) verbal and (b) quantitative reasoning tests that measure a student's capability for learning; (c) reading comprehension and (d) mathematics achievement tests that provide specific information about a student's strengths and weakness in those areas; and (e) an optional essay section.
If you child is going to be applying to a school that requires the ISEE test, please contact me.
Prealgebra
Prealgebra makes the transition from concrete arithmetic to the abstract concepts of Algebra I/II and Geometry. As you can see from the Key Topics listed below, getting a good foundation NOW in prealgebra motivates your child to be INTERESTED AND COMPETENT in Algebra I/II and Geometry, so essential for Middle and High School.
Key Topics: Whole numbers; prime numbers; word problems; unit multipliers; points, lines, rays, angles, and perimeter; area; volume; graphs; working with fractions; mode, median, and mean; equations; mixed numbers; exponential expressions and roots; decimal, fraction, and percent problems; proportions; ratios; negative numbers; opposites; algebraic phrases; order of operations; variables; parentheses; ratio problems; powers; computing interest; triangles; congruence; bisectors; advanced equations; permutations; equations of a line; conversions.