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Experienced and Adaptive English, Writing, & Phonics Tutor
Ann K.

5.0 (73 ratings)

354 hours tutoring

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Hourly Rate: $60
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Response time: 39 minutes

About Ann

Bio

I’m Ann—a published poet and experienced tutor with 11+ years of helping students make English, literature, and writing feel clear, approachable, and rewarding. My teaching philosophy is simple: prioritize clarity, pace, and comfort while building the confidence that drives real learning. I create a supportive, engaging environment, with flexible lesson plans tailored to each learner’s needs.

I tutor English at all levels, from early literacy to graduate research, specializing in...

I’m Ann—a published poet and experienced tutor with 11+ years of helping students make English, literature, and writing feel clear, approachable, and rewarding. My teaching philosophy is simple: prioritize clarity, pace, and comfort while building the confidence that drives real learning. I create a supportive, engaging environment, with flexible lesson plans tailored to each learner’s needs.

I tutor English at all levels, from early literacy to graduate research, specializing in composition, rhetoric, poetry, and creative writing. As a poet, I teach both the art and craft of poetry—guiding students in refining voice, developing an ear for language, and exploring the emotional and intellectual logic of verse. I also teach screenwriting fundamentals, including story structure, character development, and visual storytelling techniques.

In addition to literature and writing, I specialize in structured literacy using Orton–Gillingham–inspired methods. My sequential, cumulative, multisensory phonics lessons build decoding, fluency, and spelling skills, with interactive, movement-based strategies to keep learning engaging. This approach strengthens reading outcomes while fostering confidence and resilience.

For advanced learners, I connect literary study to broader intellectual traditions, including linguistics and semiotics, cultural and historical context, psychology and psychoanalysis, political and critical theory, religious studies and hermeneutics, and art and visual culture. I also focus on building vocabulary and refining expression for academic and creative purposes. I offer biblical studies tutoring as well, integrating literary, theological, and historical-critical methods with emphasis on interpretive traditions from early Christian to modern thinkers.

Whether I’m helping a kindergartner crack the reading code, coaching a high schooler on essay composition or test preparation, or supporting graduate-level research, my goal is the same: to make learning approachable, expansive, and empowering.

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Education

University of Colorado Denver
English, Literature

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Approved Subjects

Bible Studies

Bible Studies

I have received years of instruction in Catholic catechism and pursued undergraduate, as well as personal enrichment, coursework in biblical history and theology. My studies have included extensive engagement with the "Word Study Greek-English New Testament with Complete Concordance," and a sustained interest in the history of translation, including the works of William Tyndale and literary commentary by Reynolds Price. I have closely studied the Gospel according to Mark, particularly its chiasmic structure, and have conducted interdisciplinary readings across both patristic and modern theologians—from Origen and Augustine to Paul Tillich, Karl Barth, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. My interdisciplinary approach also draws from comparative studies in rabbinic literature and modern thought leaders such as Martin Buber, Simone Weil, and Thomas Merton. In addition to familiarity with various English translations of scripture, I bring focused study to eschatological traditions across early Christian texts. I also have working knowledge of linguistic concepts including Greek morphology and other grammatical features critical to biblical exegesis. My approach bridges literary, theological, and historical-critical methods to deepen both interpretive clarity and faith-based understanding.
Classics

Classics

I have an undergraduate background in classics and antiquities, with a strong focus on Homeric and Virgilian literature, including studies of the Iliad, Odyssey, and Aeneid. My academic work also includes Ovid's Metamorphoses, as well as a broad engagement with ancient Greek literature, poetry, and drama, including works by Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes. I have explored Classical Mythology, examining Greek and Roman myths and their cultural significance, as well as Greek and Roman History, with an emphasis on the political, social, and cultural aspects of ancient civilizations. My studies also extend to Classical Literature, where I analyze major works by ancient Greek and Roman authors in both translated and original texts. Additionally, I have delved into Ancient Thought, focusing on the philosophical and intellectual traditions of ancient Greece and Rome, and Comparative Literature, exploring how classical texts have influenced later writers and cultural movements.
Creative Writing

Creative Writing

I have tutored creative writing for over a decade, with a particular focus on helping students develop narrative clarity, emotional depth, and voice. My background includes editorial experience with small presses and literary magazines, as well as years of mentorship in fiction, poetry, and hybrid forms. I work closely with students to refine structure, develop character arcs, and enhance thematic cohesion, using techniques drawn from both classical rhetoric and contemporary craft models. In addition to my practical experience, my approach is informed by foundational texts such as Aristotle’s Poetics, Horace’s Ars Poetica, and E.M. Forster’s Aspects of the Novel. These works shape my emphasis on unity, character development, and narrative rhythm. I help students build stories that are structurally sound while remaining emotionally resonant, balancing classical principles with contemporary technique. I am also a published author of poetry and frequently draw on Kenneth Koch’s Wishes, Lies, and Dreams to guide younger or emerging writers. Koch’s methodology invites playful experimentation while nurturing authentic expression, and I use it to foster creativity, self-discovery, and confidence in the writing process.
Essay Writing

Essay Writing

I bring over 11 years of experience tutoring English language and literature across a wide range of ages and learning levels. My primary specialization lies in essay construction, with a focus on developing clear thesis-driven arguments, cohesive structure, and analytical depth. I have supported students in academic writing across disciplines, from high school literary analysis to advanced college-level coursework. My instruction is tailored to each learner’s needs, emphasizing both technical proficiency and critical thinking.
Fiction Writing

Fiction Writing

I have spent over a decade mentoring students in fiction writing, with an emphasis on long-form storytelling, narrative pacing, character psychology, and thematic resonance. As a published author and editor, I guide writers through every stage of the creative process—from idea development and outlining to drafting and substantive revision. My teaching draws from classical and modern fiction theory, including Percy Lubbock’s The Craft of Fiction, Wayne C. Booth’s The Rhetoric of Fiction, and John Gardner’s The Art of Fiction. These texts shape my attention to narrative distance, point of view, and moral vision in fiction. I also integrate tools from modern craft models, such as scene/sequel structure, causality chains, and internal/external conflict mapping. Whether preparing students for portfolio submissions, college applications, or independent projects, I emphasize clarity of structure, emotional depth, and precision of language—equipping them to write stories that are both artful and architecturally sound.
Grammar

Grammar

With over 11 years of tutoring experience, I help students understand and apply grammar as both a practical tool and an essential part of clear, effective communication. I teach grammar in context—integrating it into writing and reading exercises so that rules are learned through meaningful use rather than memorization alone. My approach emphasizes demystifying complex structures, from sentence diagramming and punctuation to agreement, parallelism, and syntax. By combining technical instruction with real-world application, I help learners write and speak with greater precision, clarity, and confidence.
Literature

Literature

I am a published poet with over 11 years of experience teaching literature at all levels, from middle school to graduate study. My expertise includes guiding students through close reading, literary analysis, and critical writing, with an emphasis on understanding historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts. I connect literary study to broader disciplines such as philosophy, political theory, psychology, and visual culture, helping students develop both interpretive depth and expressive precision.
Phonics

Phonics

I specialize in structured literacy instruction grounded in Orton–Gillingham–inspired methods, delivering sequential, cumulative, multisensory phonics lessons that build decoding, fluency, and spelling skills. My approach integrates tactile, auditory, and visual activities, using movement-based strategies and interactive games to make learning engaging and memorable. I adapt each lesson to the learner’s pace and needs, using resources such as the Pete the Cat Phonics Box Set, The Bambino Tree Phonics Flash Cards, and Teach Reading with Orton–Gillingham to reinforce foundational skills. Whether supporting early readers or older students who need targeted intervention, my goal is to create confident, resilient readers with a strong command of phonics principles.
Proofreading

Proofreading

I bring over a decade of experience in proofreading academic, creative, and professional writing, with a focus on precision, clarity, and stylistic consistency. My work includes refining graduate theses, scholarly articles, creative manuscripts, and student essays to ensure correct grammar, punctuation, syntax, and formatting. As a published poet and experienced writing instructor, I also offer guidance on rhythm, tone, and diction, helping writers elevate their style without losing their voice. Whether preparing work for publication, academic submission, or personal projects, I provide a meticulous yet supportive approach to ensure writing is polished, coherent, and compelling.
Reading

Reading

I have over 11 years of experience helping students of all ages strengthen their reading skills, from early decoding to advanced comprehension. My approach is grounded in structured literacy and Orton–Gillingham–inspired methods, using sequential, cumulative, and multisensory instruction to build decoding, fluency, and spelling. I integrate engaging, movement-based strategies alongside literary and informational texts to deepen comprehension, expand vocabulary, and foster critical thinking. Whether supporting a beginning reader, a student with dyslexia, or an advanced learner, I tailor lessons to meet each student’s needs while building confidence and resilience.
Spanish

Spanish

I grew up in a Spanish-speaking household with an Argentine mother and later became fully bilingual after marrying a native of Spain, whose family speaks no English. This background has given me extensive experience conversing with people of all ages and backgrounds entirely in Spanish. My teaching method emphasizes a structured, sequential approach—beginning with core grammar and conjugations, then layering vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and cultural context—while weaving conversation throughout each lesson to build fluency in real-world situations. I integrate authentic media and interactive activities to reinforce learning, and because I became fluent later in life, I have a unique understanding of the most challenging aspects for English speakers, enabling me to address them with precision and clarity.
Study Skills

Study Skills

I help students develop practical, personalized study strategies that improve retention, organization, and independent learning. My approach combines time management tools, active reading techniques, and note-taking methods tailored to each learner’s cognitive style. As someone with ADHD, I’ve had to refine my own systems for focus, organization, and time management—experience that helps me empathize with and effectively support students facing similar challenges. With over a decade of tutoring experience across ages and academic levels, I guide learners in breaking down complex tasks, prioritizing effectively, and building consistent habits that reduce overwhelm and build confidence.
Vocabulary

Vocabulary

As a published poet and experienced English tutor, I bring over 11 years of expertise in helping students expand their vocabulary for both academic and creative purposes. I teach vocabulary in context—through literature, writing, and discussion—so students not only memorize words but also understand their nuance, connotation, and usage. My methods combine direct instruction, word analysis (roots, prefixes, suffixes), and active practice in reading and writing to promote long-term retention. Whether preparing for standardized tests, improving academic expression, or cultivating a more precise and powerful personal voice, I tailor lessons to each learner’s goals and level.
Writing

Writing

As a published poet and experienced tutor, I have over 11 years of helping students strengthen their writing across creative, academic, and professional contexts. I guide learners in mastering structure, clarity, and style—whether they are crafting poetry, essays, research papers, or screenplays. My instruction includes the problem-first rhetorical model for persuasive and analytical writing, as well as targeted preparation for standardized test essays. I emphasize both the art and discipline of writing, combining creative expression with practical skill-building so students can write with confidence, precision, and impact.
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Response time: 39 minutes

Ratings and Reviews

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5.0 (73 ratings)
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Reviews

Amazing! Very knowledgeable and patient tutor

Ann is very kind, gentle spoken, knowledgeable, attentive, and patient tutor for my daughter. My daughter loves English, but struggled to focus on topics and book selections. She has been very caring and even follow up with little tips, articles, and suggestions for her to learn from. My daughter loves her! She is simply amazing!

Masae, 34 lessons with Ann

very productive lesson

Ann taught a super productive creative writing lesson. She provided so many great advice that we never imagined could ever receive from one lesson! Here are my daughter's feedback: " I really enjoyed discussing my work with Ann! She had a lot of interesting perspectives that shifted my own views on my work, and many inputs that have prompted me to think more deeply about my own writing. She was very kind as well as knowledgeable and guided me through her thoughts as well as asking my own and allowing for a good brainstorming place. I benefitted a lot from her guidances and I really enjoyed the session not only for the output it gave me but also the great experience! It really felt like I was discussing with both a mentor and a peer, and it was overall amazing :) "

Nina, 1 lesson with Ann

Amazing

Ann is exceptional. After one session, my son already feels that he’s got a better grasp of the material. She’s gone above and beyond to prep for the sessions to ensure he’s learning.

Kathryn, 22 lessons with Ann

Three act structure

About the three act structure, the characteristics, she definitely has a good grasp on the subject, hope she will be able to help me strengthen my two projects and and get them sold.

David, 22 lessons with Ann
Hourly Rate: $60
Response time: 39 minutes
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