Dear Students,
I love one-on-one tutoring. It gives me a chance to try to do something worthwhile for another person. At this point in my life (I'm 57), that is very important to me. I would like to spend the rest of my working career tutoring and helping young people in need.
In my career in tutoring, I've focused on English and English comprehension, but have helped students from K-College with sociology, Earth science, psychology, history, and math. I come prepared to each session and try to anticipate students' questions. I appreciate communication, so, value honesty in students' responses and time usage. I am either on time or let the student know how late I may be. I expect the same from my students.
My teaching method is student-centered, except for the topics. I like to tutor on subjects the student needs to progress through our education system. By student-centered, I mean that I've focused on whether a student really is interested. I've found that sometimes their eyes will drift or they will act out either because the topic is boring or is beyond them and they don't yet feel they can tell me that they don't understand. If I see that, I either ask them if they're OK or simply change the subject and tell them that we will come back to that--which we will. I show them how I'm marking the spot. That gives me time to determine a different way of teaching it or to try it again at a time when the student is more attentive.
Understanding the student's point of view or goal also is crucial. For example, students often have just come inside from a regular, full day of activities and are tired. I try to take that into account.
I look forward to meeting you at your convenience.
Sincerely,
Steve
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