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JOHN B. for tutoring lessons in Harleysville PA Over 200 tutoring hours WyzAnt Tutoring Tutor Tutor United States

JOHN B.

The BEST "All-Around" professional tutor for your needs.

Harleysville, PA (19438)

Travel Radius 10 miles
Hourly Fee $30.00
Discount $25.50 - $28.50 Save up to 15% (i)
  61 ratings

Your first hour with any tutor is always 100% refundable!

I work with students at their home!

My background is as a mechanical engineer who, after working 23 years in the computer industry, returned to college to become a professional teacher, earning 14 years of teaching experience in Massachusetts public high schools, and then continued my student experience by an additional 6 years experience teaching at the community college level.

I have earned two undergraduate degrees in Mechanical Engineering, a Master's degree in Education, and I have completed coursework towards the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Education Management/Supervision.

First, let me say that I will do everything I can to help you. I offer students FREE email support between tutoring sessions if they need it.

I DO NOT tutor students in exactly the "same way" they are taught in the classroom. EVERYONE has "different" learning styles. Together we will discover the learning style approach that works for you as an individual!

Finally, there are NO "canned techniques" or "secret shortcuts" to subject mastery. I am willing to give my best effort to help students to succeed.
• I am NOT an "answer" man - I am a professional educator and I will make every effort to be certain your student UNDERSTANDS what needs to be done.
• I am NOT a "homework buddy". Although homework problems are useful as examples, I do not sit at the table and "do" the homework.
• I will provide students with presentations and solved problems. (Since presentations must be done correctly and in a usable format, I do not "work on the fly")
• I am a caring educator with the ability to help students to master the subject material and I will give students the confidence and knowledge to go forward on your own.
• Best of all, no worksheets! I earn my pay by directly interacting with the student.

SPECIAL NOTE: I am available for "Home Schooling" assignments. Contact me for special rates based on term of commitment.

A word to parents: My job, as I see it, is to maximize your student's learning abilities. I promise you that I will be committed, accessible and caring. We will work together to customize a strategy for your student and execute that plan as a team. Cancel one or all sessions with notice, and there is NEVER A CHARGE.

JOHN's Subjects

Math:
Science:
English:
Test Preparation:
Computer:
Language:
History:
Special Needs:
Elementary Education:
Business:
Corporate Training:
Homeschool:

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is the foundation higher math course upon which all-future math courses are built. My skills as a Tutor, Engineer and public High school teacher will help any student understand the fundamentals of Algebra 1. In addition, I can show students the best approaches to solve problems and how to use shortcuts to their advantage. I will demonstrate the rules concerning the “why” of each step in the process. I will explain methodologies and build student confidence with each session.

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 expands upon the mathematical principles learned in Algebra 1. Topics studied in Algebra 2 include: rules of operations and relations, equations and inequalities, quadratic functions, powers and solving polynomials. A large portion of algebra 2 is trigonometry and geometry. Individual high school courses of Algebra 2 may vary in scope/content, but they all expand on the concepts taught in Algebra 1.
I will explain each individual step of every type of equation. For many, learning... Read More

American History

American History encompasses the background of America and the human experience of its citizens. American History helps us understand ourselves in the context of our times and traditions. History means not only the record of the past but also the discipline of investigating and interpreting our country's past. The study of American History allows students to experience critical thinking as well as cultivating careful analysis of various types of quantitative and qualitative evidence.

Biology

I have had held a longstanding fascination with biology throughout my entire life. Biology is especially relevant to me because of my complex medical conditions that require unique treatments related to the interactions of compounds and soluble supplements on the human endocrine system. I have worked with students at all levels of biology in elementary, middle, and high school. My primary focus with students is to help them make connections to the real world, particularly when dealing with processes... Read More

Vocabulary

The secret to success is having the right vocabulary for the situation at hand. I am a "master wordsmith", by virtue of my education and publications. Not only can I help a student understand what a word means (its raw definition) but I can demonstrate how to use the precise word to create the perfect verbal image. In addition the understanding of a word's meaning is paramount to being a successful reader and (of course) comprehending the topic presentation.

Grammar

Grammar and usage can be confusing for even the best of students. Unlike math, there is no absolute, apparent "best answer". What "sounds" correct may not be grammatically correct, and vice versa. My over 30 years' experience as a student, published author and teacher has given me a wealth of knowledge and background to help students through the difficult maze of English language grammar.

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel is a commercial spreadsheet application written and distributed by Microsoft for Microsoft Windows. It features calculation, graphing tools, and pivot tables, Excel forms part of Microsoft Office. I can teach you how to use this software effectively, but more important I can teach you how to find your way “around” any question you may need answered AFTER our sessions. I can you show the simple syntax used to enter equations and how to locate “boilerplate” equations that work. Once... Read More

Geometry

I fully understand the student's frustration with geometry. I will help students to feel more comfortable with the subject matter, by relating it to real situations. I will meet with parents or guardians to discuss student progress. When I am tutoring someone, my main goal is for the student to gain confidence in the subject in which they are struggling. Most of the time, students are frustrated with themselves and just feel like giving up. I will be there to help the students through these hard... Read More

Microsoft Word

I use MS Word on an "hourly basis" everyday. I can teach you the best way to use this software so that it becomes a powerful tool in your writing arsenal, rather than a confusing roadblock.

Microsoft PowerPoint

Probably the best tool ever created for developing presentations. I can show you how to make effective use of this software and how to incorporate its features into the best presentations you can create.

Prealgebra

Prealgebra is the transition subject between Elementary Math and Algebra 1. This is as much a confidence-building subject as it is strictly a math-learning exercise. My years of classroom experience with young adults will allow me to understand their needs, remedy any technical difficulties they may have and eliminate "bad math habits" they may have developed. Together we will develop the skills necessary to have confidence that math can be a subject that is understandable and enjoyable.

Reading

Understanding the content of a written passage can be confusing for even the best of students. It is absolutely essential that a student be able to extract the content from books and articles. My over 30 years' experience as a student, published author and teacher has given me a wealth of knowledge and background to help students dissect a written passage to extract the author's intent.

Trigonometry

I fully understand the student's frustration with trigonometry. I will help students to feel more comfortable with the subject matter, by relating it to real situations. I will meet with parents or guardians to discuss student progress. My main goal is for the student to gain confidence in the subject. I will be there to help the students through hard times and ultimately help them to succeed in meeting their goals. I assist my students in understanding calculations. I encourage independent thinking... Read More

Writing

I am a professional writer and author. I can help you write whatever it is you need to write and in such a way that only you will know you had help.

Astronomy

Astronomy has been one of my passions since the time I ground my own mirrors and lenses for my first telescope. I stay current with the science and I have studied the universe all my life.

Geography

Geography is the science that studies lands, features, inhabitants, and phenomena of the Earth. Geography is more than maps and locating famous world cities. Four historical traditions in geographical research are: spatial analysis of natural and human phenomena (geography – the study of distribution), area studies (places and regions), study of human-land relationships, and research in the earth sciences. Modern geography is an all-encompassing discipline that seeks to understand Earth and all... Read More

English

Proper English grammar is probably the last thing on your mind. However, in the process of managing all aspects of your life, you will need to write. Proper English grammar is essential to success in any endeavor. Without proper grammar, you will sound uneducated and unprofessional. The English language is a powerful tool, and using it properly can help you earn more money in the end.
The term “English” usually refers to English grammar: a body of rules that describe the structure of expressions... Read More

ESL/ESOL

I will provide intensive instruction in English Language, Grammar and Usage, using the DIRECT IMMERSION method. The focus is to improve the students’ English language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The goal of our sessions will be: developing proficiency in the English language. Students have to acquire a new language, and they have to adapt to North American culture to be able to actively participate in American schools, or work settings. Second language acquisition is a... Read More

Government & Politics

As citizens, students are introduced to the government and politics of the United States on a daily basis. They should be able to engage in discussion of the institutions, political culture and recent history of the United States. Students should be aware of how world events have implications for American politics and the changing role of the United States in the world. I will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This will include both the study... Read More

Psychology

Psychology is a broad science that encompasses general psychology, developmental psychology and abnormal psychology. Part of the difficulty in learning the material is adsorbing all the terms and definitions. My expertise lies in my ability to make sense of these disparate topics. I will help with organizational study methods to organize theory information as well as use of student’s text and note taking. Together we will find “outside” study materials that are relevant to your understanding.... Read More

SAT Math

SAT math can seem overwhelming to any student. Fortunately, it is not. My skills as a Tutor, Engineer and public High school teacher can help any student overcome "math anxiety" and approach the test in a logical manner - ensuring the best possible score. I can show students reliable methods to solve problems and how to use shortcuts to their advantage. I will demonstrate time management techniques that will allow the student to have "extra minutes" to work on the more difficult problems in order... Read More

Literature

The word literature literally means, "Things made from letters". Literature is not confined to published sources (although, under some circumstances, unpublished sources can also be exempt). The four major classifications of literature are poetry, prose, fiction, and non-fiction. I offer support to students of English Literature. My aim is to help students come to grips with the novels, poetry and plays they are studying so that they can talk and write about them with confidence and fluency. I... Read More

World History

World History requires students to engage with the dynamics of continuity and changes across the historical periods. I will teach you to analyze the processes and causes involved in these continuities and changes. World History provides students with an overview of the major world events and personalities that have helped shape modern world history. World history demonstrates global and multicultural perspectives. I will help students understand the interaction between humans and the environment... Read More

GRE

My approach to tutoring the GREs is to focus on your specific weak areas, while reinforcing your strengths. The GRE does not test any math past the 10th grade, but it does present “tricky” questioning techniques. The best defense to use is to understand test-taking techniques and answer selection strategies. The verbal section is focused on vocabulary as it relates to context clues and developing strong reading comprehension skills. The writing section assesses whether you can concisely write... Read More

Proofreading

I am a published author and a professional writer. I have written (literally) thousands of paragraphs, articles, papers, blogs, novels and documents. For the past fifty years, I have worked with and at times struggled with proofreading. A sterile passage may be perfectly correct in grammar, but proofreading will reveal ways to keep the subject lively and still remain within the boundaries of correct usage, punctuation and grammar. We all need to review our writing for correct use and to remove... Read More

GED

The GED is the "second chance" stepping-stone for many adult learners. My experience with High School students and adult learners (at the community college level) allow me to have a unique insight into both the importance and the difficulty of this test. I have an extensive background in education and I am able to impart a caring, yet structured method to subject presentation. I have the means necessary to provide a sense of structure to learning, and I am able to provide methods/study skills... Read More

SAT Reading

My skills as a teacher and an Engineer will be invaluable to you as you prepare for the SAT Reading section. Together we will review relevant test articles, practice questions, their responses and discuss possible solutions. I will teach you the proper way to dissect an article and extract the information you need, using the information supplied by the question itself. You will be able to apply these techniques on a daily basis as an added practice prior to taking the exam.

SAT Writing

My skill as a professional writer and author will help you to prepare for the written portion of your SAT exam. Together we will review writing forms, correct grammar and other elements that are unique to this test.

I will demonstrate by examples, ways to improve sentence structure and readability.

I will teach you the correct methodology to successfully analyze and understand the exam questions.

Physical Science

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and Physical Science was a major part of my career for over 25 years. Physical Science is a valuable but older part of science. Sometimes known as central science, Physical Science connects the laws of science to all the sciences: chemistry, earth science, biology, physics, material science & astronomy. I continue to pursue my studies in Physical Science as a full-time hobby and I am well versed on the latest theories and findings. My enthusiasm... Read More

Geology

Geology is “under our feet”, every day. Having lived in New England for a large part of my life I have an innate appreciation of rocks, minerals, and the processes that both created and destroyed them. I have always viewed Geology as (probably) the most observable (next to the weather), and fun science. Geology is the scientific study of our planet, including the materials that it is made of, the physical and chemical processes that occur on its surface and in its interior, and the history of... Read More

TOEFL

TOEFL stands for: Test Of English as a Foreign Language. Almost 800,000 people take the TOEFL exam every year worldwide. A growing number of universities and colleges offer courses and academic study programs in English and students must have a good command of the English language. This is where the TOEFL comes into play. It is the most widely used academic English proficiency test in the world. Thousands of colleges and universities use the TOEFL to test and evaluate the English language competency... Read More

Philosophy

Aside from my formal graduate school classwork in philosophy (in preparation to becoming an educator), I have continued to study philosophy and develop personal stances in order to describe what I need to accomplish in order to reach out to students.
Some philosophers feel the need to expound names and dates of numerous peers, and although such background may be interesting in itself, it does not “teach philosophy”.
The best way to teach philosophical thinking is just by having conversations... Read More

ASVAB

As an Air Force (volunteer) veteran of the Vietnam era, I can associate with your desire to serve your country and I have an appreciation of the obstacles you may feel are in the way of your enlistment. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is the most widely used multiple-aptitude test battery in the world. It is a general-knowledge based test. The ASVAB measures your strengths, weaknesses, and potential for future success for various civilian and military occupations and is an indicator... Read More

SSAT

The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is an aptitude test for students in grades 5-11. This test consists of verbal, quantitative (math) and reading comprehension sections. My background in education and my relevant experience in test preparation at all levels will prove to be invaluable to students who need to achieve the highest score they can.

In addition, the test includes a writing sample portion, which asks the student to respond to a topic statement. Although the essay is... Read More

Spelling

The English language can present difficulties for many elementary school students. Most students are confused by the phonetics (sound) of a word as opposed to the correct spelling of the word. Spelling has rules and exceptions, which further confuse the young learner. I can work through these issues with gentle correction and demonstration.

ACT Reading

My skills as a teacher and an Engineer are invaluable to you as you prepare for the ACT Reading section. We will review relevant test selections, practice questions, their responses and examine which answers are the “best answers”. I will teach you the correct methodology to dissect articles and extract the information you need. I will teach you to be able to use the information supplied by the question itself to answer the questions. You will be taught to apply these techniques on a daily basis... Read More

ACT Math

I've been teaching and tutoring the ACT for the last three years, and in that time I've learned that ACT Math is nothing like the math students are used to seeing in high school. It is not more difficult or fundamentally different – the ACT presents math like no other test. Even students who do well in their high school math classes (even students in AP Calculus and Statistics) sometimes do poorly on the ACT. The test is quirky, and many students are puzzled by the types of questions the ACT asks... Read More

ACT Science

What is in a name? The ACT Science Reading section is one of the most feared sections of the ACT, filling science-literate students with trepidation and anxiety. Fortunately, the Science Reading section is not nearly as frightening as it sounds. In fact, this section is simply based on basic reasoning, chart evaluation, graph reading and little else. Science knowledge is not tested, (although fundamentals are helpful), so if you slept through biology and chemistry, you may still pass. The ACT... Read More

Elementary Math

I will analyze class and grade level data in mathematics at the elementary school level for making informed decisions relative to instructional practices in preparation for tutoring. I will assess skills and individual needs (both initially and ongoing) of students within an elementary school setting for determining the types of strategies needed to bring about student achievement and gains in math. I will instruct individual students with the goal of improving mathematics achievement levels.... Read More

Elementary Science

One of my life's passions is science. To me there is nothing more exciting to see the spark of discovery when a person accepts science, any science as part of their academic toolbox. My background in Mechanical Engineering coupled with my work in public schools with a variety of students provides the perfect mix of talent and excitement necessary to spark young minds. I will bring novel approaches to the subject matter and I am able to present real life examples and applications of the sciences... Read More

Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary school is an important time in your child's academic development. I believe that an individualized approach to learning can build the skills, habits and attitudes your child needs for a solid academic foundation and a lifetime of success.
I will work with students individually, utilizing a variety of instructional and enrichment materials. I will strive to improve the literacy standards of students using recreational, academic and enrichment activities for them. I will listen... Read More

General Computer

I am able to explain and simplify all aspects of home & general computing. I have worked with computer hardware and peripheral devices since 1974 as both a designer and an avid user. My background allows me to teach you to assemble and maintain home systems as well as update programs and install operating systems. I have extensive general knowledge of all Microsoft Operating systems, including popular Office platforms. I am familiar with anti-virus software and have the ability to teach you how... Read More

Phonics

My years of experience as an author, educator and teacher are invaluable to helping students read, spell and write. I will work with students to develop phonemic awareness—the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate English phonemes—in order to teach the correspondence between these sounds and the spelling patterns (graphemes) that represent them.

I will use my educational background to create lessons that enable beginning readers to decode new written words by sounding them out,... Read More

Study Skills

I have a Master's Degree in Education that I completed by study at night school. During that time I was able to develop and apply the necessary skills needed to complete the work regimen. I have helped many high school students apply these same skills to their circumstances.
Studying, schoolwork, papers, testing, homework can be overwhelming for anyone. The key to success in achieving scholastic serenity and conquering the "piles" of work is understanding the need to have a place to work,... Read More

Religion

I am a Roman Catholic, and I was raised in an Italian Catholic family. My religion started, for me, with the Latin Mass - YES, I am that old! I had six aunts that were sisters in the convent, an uncle who was a missionary priest, and dozens of Italian relatives who were Bishops and priests. I, myself, was an altar boy (That was the term then). Before I went into the military, I knew all the "rules and regulations".

After the military, my religion became a different part of my life.... Read More

Business

I have 23 years’ experience in managing corporate business functions. My background includes extensive management and day-to-day operation of manufacturing groups, including a stint as the Director of Manufacturing Operations for an Opto-Electronics company. During the course of my lengthy career with several Fortune 500 companies, I managed product development groups, engineering groups and manufacturing operations from starting concept though achievement of goals. A necessary part of every position... Read More

Public Speaking

From my earliest days as the "Daily Announcement" reader on the high school intercom to my classroom lectures in Heating and Air conditioning Technology, I have been noted for my humor and unflappable delivery (yes, it means something). "Way Back" in high school I was able to flawlessly sneak in the occasional zinger before Principal Bird hit the "Kill Switch" - I was that confident in my ability.

As life progressed, and I transitioned for Engineering presentations to Educational lectures... Read More

Career Development

Throughout my 47 years of working, I have achieved my job goals in three different careers. I am knowledgeable in the Academic & Corporate workplace. I have been a "lowly peon" and the Director of a company. I have changed careers in mid-life and re-engineered myself to meet my new goals. I will be truthful and realistic in my guidance, and dreams can be fulfilled in many different ways.

College Counseling

1. I obtained ALL my degrees through "college night school" - I understand the working parent/college course fundamentals.
-ASME
-BSME
-MA TEACHER CERTIFICATION
-MASTERS IN EDUCATION
-ADVANCED GRADUATE STUDIES
2. I taught/counseled at a Community College for 4 years.
3. I worked as a public school teacher for 13 years in an inner-city school and counseled numerous young adults about their college choices.

Archaeology

I have a strong background in ancient history and western civilization. This combined with my degree in Engineering and a solid understanding of soils, (the processes of soil formation and the factors that affect soil chemistry) and physics provides me with a unique understanding of what environmental events are associated with the artifacts of a specific archaeological finds. A good example of using soil science to better understand historical events, in conjunction with the archeological record,... Read More

COOP/HSPT

I have years of test preparation experience with students of all ages. My background as an educator, tutor and test prep specialist enables me to help students make the most of their study time. Since the exam changes from year to year, no student can become familiar with the test format and content. Each testing year brings new question styles, or a different number of questions within a given section. However, the content area that each test covers remains the same. I understand the nature of... Read More

ISEE

The ISEE (Independent Schools Entrance Exam) is a high stakes school admission test that has three levels, the Lower Level, Middle Level, and Upper Level. I understand the nature of the stress that this could cause a student. My years of test preparation experience with students of all ages will ensure that you are prepared. My background as an educator, tutor and test prep specialist will enable you to make the most of your study time. I will explain how the ISEE has different forms at each level... Read More

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Outlook is the anchor mail management application for Microsoft Windows. Outlook forms part of the Microsoft Office suite. As the number one e-mail client and personal information manager, Microsoft Outlook offers a set of uncomplicated features that maximize the management of your e-mail, schedule, and general daily activities, with the least amount of hassle possible. I can teach you how to use this software effectively, but more important I can teach you how to find your way “around”... Read More

Organic Chemistry

I have 23 years’ experience as a Mechanical Engineer and, at first glance, a direct connection to Organic Chemistry may not be evident. However, I have an intensive background in the selection of composite materials, the materials’ chemical content and the expected environmental issues, (outgassing, toxicity, etc.). I can show how the broad diversity of molecular structures available in polymers, and composites would result in combinations of properties that could not be achieved with “common... Read More

Praxis

A career in the field of education and teaching is very rewarding as it gives you a stable career and financial security. My years of Educational work and actual test-taking experience will be invaluable to your preparation.

You cannot just walk into the test center with inadequate preparation even if you are confident of your mastery over the skills being assessed by Praxis tests. The Praxis tests consist of questions that are presented in a specific format. You need to be aware of... Read More

Sociology

Sociology broadens your mind and helps you to see your world in new and interesting ways. Many people confuse sociology with other sciences that have some similarities, like psychology. However, Sociology is quite different. Rather than asking why a person would commit a crime, become a successful entrepreneur, or homeless, (as if it related to something intrinsic within that person, or as a manifestation of their personality), Sociologists ask: what is it about the structure of our society or... Read More

Social Studies

I have a Master's Degree in education and I have worked with students at all levels for at least 20 years. For each student I can provide an appreciation about the social structure of different peoples through discussion and reference to data. My extensive travel experiences allow me to teach students that social studies helps them to develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good. My educational background is beneficial in teaching that we are citizens of a culturally... Read More

Microsoft Publisher

Microsoft Publisher is probably the most “fun to use” application in the MS Office Suite. I use it on a regular basis to create book covers for my published books and to add a touch of flair on all my work. I will show you how to use this application to create everything from simple birthday cards to, well, books covers for your novel. My fearless approach to MS Office contains the “Start slow” and “Use it” philosophy that has helped my students become experts in a matter of days, not months.

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JOHN's Hourly Rate

Hourly Fee: $30.00

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Background Check Status for JOHN B.

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JOHN B. passed a background check on 8/19/2010. You may run an updated background check on JOHN once you send an email.

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