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Math and Chemistry Tutor. Test Prep: SAT/ACT, Praxis, ISEE and more!
Diane S.

5.0 (2,625 ratings)

5,039 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $85
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Response time: 4 hours

About Diane

Bio

I am an established, experienced Math, Science and Test Prep tutor, covering elementary through high school level math and chemistry. Test prep includes math/science portions of SAT, ACT, ISEE, SSAT, Praxis, GRE, TEAS, ASVAB, GED and more.

My goal is to connect with the student at THEIR level. We start by going over the fundamentals of the subject, the basics of problem solving, and work from there to foster independent thinking. I use varied approaches when the student is "stuck." I am...

I am an established, experienced Math, Science and Test Prep tutor, covering elementary through high school level math and chemistry. Test prep includes math/science portions of SAT, ACT, ISEE, SSAT, Praxis, GRE, TEAS, ASVAB, GED and more.

My goal is to connect with the student at THEIR level. We start by going over the fundamentals of the subject, the basics of problem solving, and work from there to foster independent thinking. I use varied approaches when the student is "stuck." I am friendly, patient and very persistent. I can assist with classwork and homework. I will assign supplemental work to advance in the subject area as needed or desired. My goal - to ultimately work myself out of a job!

For standardized test preparation - we review most frequently tested concepts, go over proven test-taking tips and strategies, and practice exams. Together we develop a strategy that best fits your strengths and minimizes any weakness or anxiety. By building skills and confidence, we maximize your score.
I tailor tutoring sessions to your needs. I love teaching, and love seeing students continue and excel on their own! Contact me for more information.

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Want to save money on tutoring or test prep? Get together with a few friends. Meeting together is a great incentive. A group of 2 to 6 students still provides most all the benefits of personally individualized teaching, and at little to no extra charge. Ask me about it!

Special Discount for ASVAB prep - thank you. Please inquire - ASVAB prep only.
In person tutoring - limited openings at the Panera across from the Danbury Fair Mall.
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WOW! Wyzant said -
What a year, Diane! In 2020
–You were a Top 10% tutor on Wyzant
–Your top subject, SSAT, accounted for 22% of your lessons
–Your versatility and expertise allowed you to tutor 7 students in more than 1 subject
–You earned 148 5-star lesson ratings and added 15 testimonials to your Wyzant profile
Wow! On behalf of everyone at Wyzant, congratulations, and thank you!

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Education

Hofstra University
Chemistry
Iowa State University
PhD
Pennsylvania State University
Other

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $85
  • Rate details: 6 hr MINIMUM notice of cancellation or change to avoid fee. $85/hr in person tutoring, near Danbury Mall. Groups = Yes! Hours outside listed times may be available. Ask for details on all policies.
  • Lesson cancellation: 6 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 9/21/2016

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

Accuplacer

Accuplacer

Needing to take the math placement test? Want to place out - or make sure you are placed at your level? If your math skills are "rusty", or if you've always struggled with math, or like this cause anxiety, I can help. I can explain math in a way that is simple to understand and easy to remember. A while back, one of my student's said it best, "I was almost in tears within the first 15 minutes. I'm 43 and have not looked at a math textbook in over 20 yrs. I was going to give up and scratch the idea of taking my entrance exam for school. However, that all quickly changed with Diane. I went from being clueless to quickly learning the information. The math problems went from being challenging to EASY! ... I am confident that I will succeed. Diane has an ability to transform her skills and teaching style to the student's learning ability." (Nancy, 10/13). I continue to have success like that, and I'm sure I can help you. Please read the feedback left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
ACT Math

ACT Math

Beyond understanding the required math, scoring well on the ACT requires conquering those careless errors (because there is no partial credit on the ACT) and being able to read and understand word problems (so you can set up the right equation to solve). I help on both fronts, in addition to strengthening the math skills covered by the ACT. The ACT is fairly predictable, so even for those who have not yet had algebra 2/trig, we can prepare a student for the types of questions the ACT asks. Additionally, I teach a method to read word problems and quickly, and confidently, write down the equation to be solved. No more having your head spin wondering, "what are they asking me?". We'll build basic skills and talk about strategies to move through the test to maximize your score. Check out the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you!
ACT Reading

ACT Reading

I am NOT a reading teacher. However, if you need some quick no nonsense tips and strategies to beat this fast paced reading test, I can help. Tailored to your strengths and weaknesses, we will find what works for you! I know the reading and test tips that are shared by ACT reading tutors. I can make sense of them, and share them, and help the student internalize them. IF there are specific struggles in reading, and more significant help is needed - you need an expert - just as I am an expert in math and science. But if you are looking to boost an ACT reading score that is subpar for you - I can definitely help - in a quick, clear and concise way.
ACT Science

ACT Science

Many students find the ACT science the hardest part of the test. Not only is it at the end of a very long test, some students find science to be hard and this section fast paced. Read up to 7 passages, answer 40 questions in only 35 minutes - sounds impossible! The key is knowing some time management strategies and being familiar with ACT question types and answer formats. I can help you get through it and take the stress out! I have proven methods. Please see the reviews on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good match for you.
AFOQT

AFOQT

I specialize in the Arithmetic Reasoning and Math Knowledge required for the AFOQT. We work on general problem solving ability as well as required math skills. I show WHY the math works, and teach HOW to set up word problems - so you don't overthink or waste time. I’ve helped many raise their confidence, skill and score - and want to do the same for you.
Algebra 1

Algebra 1

In Algebra 1, students are really learning the" art of problem solving". Compared to previous math, problems get more complicated, both in structure and presentation. Logic skills are required, in addition to the arithmetic skills taught up to this point. Complications arise when the foundational math is not strong, and/or there is difficulty in understanding the questions (often presented as word problems). Whether you need remedial help, or are looking to get ahead, I can help! I have been told I can explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. Starting with your current math, and going back as far as needed, we build skill and confidence in algebra 1. I have proven strategies and have helped many. One client said it best, "It's simple. My daughter's grade went from D's and C's to A's. Diane knows how to help kids learn and do well in school." Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you!
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

Algebra II can be tough! Many unfamiliar concepts are introduced as students are being prepared for trig and calculus. Any weaknesses in previous math courses are magnified, since these are now mere tools as the subject matter advances. I can help! I've had much success tutoring algebra II. I have been told I can explain concepts in an easy to understand and easy to remember way. I use simple ideas and illustrations to explain concepts and methods. I strive for students to understand WHY they are doing what they are doing, not just HOW. This leads to a deeper understanding and a new ease of application of the skills. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you!
ASVAB

ASVAB

Looking to take the ASVAB to start a military career? Thank you for what you are about to do. In appreciation and in recognition of your commitment, I am happy to offer a steep discount off my base rate - please inquire about details. My focus on ASVAB prep is the Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge sections. Particularly if it has been a long time since you've taken a math test, I can quickly get you up to speed in the most frequently tested math strands. I can explain concepts using simple ideas and illustrations. I can identify weak areas and teach in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. I can help you reach your goals. I've helped many - and many are surprised when they finally understand this stuff or see how simple it can be. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full Wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
Chemistry

Chemistry

Chemistry can be a tough subject because it introduces a whole new vocabulary, has difficult concepts, and couples all that with quite a bit of math. I hold a Ph.D. in chemistry - but that is not as important as I can explain chemistry well. I currently tutor high school chem and college level intro to gen chem - including prep for the NYS regents, ACS and CLEP exams. I have been told I am very patient and can explain concepts in a way this is easy to understand and easy to remember, as well as simplify the math. Please take a look at the comments left for me by clients on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
COOP/HSPT

COOP/HSPT

High School Placement Exams such as the COOP and HSPT can be nerve wracking for students. Besides being difficult for some, these tests are fast paced, which adds anxiety. As a successful tutor, experienced in standardized test prep and middle/high school math, I tutor the math portion of these exams. I help students by going over the most tested math concepts; explaining things in simple terms, building skill and confidence; and teaching strategies to lower anxiety. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

I enjoy working with youngsters, exploring the world of math and what you can do, with math. By building their skills, we can ignite curiosity about the world around them and how math applies. Whether you are looking for remedial help for your child, or are looking to advance a gifted child, I can help. I build students’ confidence in the math by connecting with them at their level, showing them how they can push those boundaries, and preparing them for the math to come. I explain things simply. I teach students WHY they are doing what they need to do, not just procedures, rules or "tricks" (which often are soon forgotten or misapplied). We deepen and broaden understanding of a concept, so skills are transferable as the subject advances. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for your child!
Elementary Science

Elementary Science

I love talking to children about their world, hearing their questions, helping them discover answers, and prodding them to more questions. Elementary science should initiate a curiosity and an enthusiasm, -- and build on that. And when it is hard, I can explain things in simple terms. We either work from their textbook/materials or I can come with my own. My background in science (PhD in chemistry) qualifies me in science, but my ability to relate on their level, whatever that may be, is what makes me a good tutor. Please read the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for your student.
GED

GED

I have successfully helped many students with the math and science portions of the GED. In addition to tutoring, I volunteered weekly at a local adult learning center, and have worked with students of all levels towards their GED. I help raise skills and confidence for the online test, tailoring sessions to your needs. Whether you are a high school-er now, or returning to studies after a long break, I can help. I've been told I can explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. Not only do we strengthen fundamentals, I teach a way to read those head-spinning word problems so you can quickly and easily know what they are asking! I have helped many students overcome stumbling blocks and anxieties, to make quick progress. Please read more in the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
Geometry

Geometry

Geometry can be difficult for many students. It's abstract, you need visualization and logic skills, and it relies on math that maybe wasn't so easy for you first time around. Geometry is very different from previous math - and any weakness in algebra can show up big time. I address all of this. I can explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. I've had experience tutoring high school geometry, New York State Regents exam and other standardized tests requiring geometry. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
GMAT

GMAT

What - no calculator on the quantitative section of the GMAT? And have you seen those head spinning word problems? I can help!! We review necessary math skills, and strengthen fundamentals so you are equipped - even for those tricky data sufficiency questions. I give you the tools needed to quickly arrive at answers. I teach a way to read the word problems to quickly set up the right equation to solve. We work on timing to get you through the test. Let me help you build skill and confidence to make the grade. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
GRE

GRE

I have prepared students for the math portion of the revised general GRE test with much success. The math content is similar to that found on the SAT, but the question format differs and can be quite unnerving if you are not prepared. Unfamiliar question types may include the quantitative comparisons, and questions where more than one right answer is correct. That can be tricky! I can help you by reviewing content, and explaining math concepts with simple ideas and illustrations. I teach you how to read word problems and quickly set up the right equation to solve. I go over quantitative comparisons to make sure you keep things straight, and only do enough math to answer the question. Most importantly, we work for accuracy and completeness. You can beat this test! Let me help. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
ISEE

ISEE

I offer Independent School Entrance Exam prep, specializing in math, test taking tips and strategies for this unique, timed test. In addition to reviewing the most-tested math concepts, the quantitative comparison questions can be unfamiliar to some students, so a particular concentration on these is included if needed. My expertise in standardized test prep and successful math tutoring methods will ensure readiness and confidence for the ISEE. I explain math concepts using simple ideas and illustrations, making them easy to understand and easy to remember. Whether you are looking for remedial help to boost a score, or are aiming for the top, I tailor sessions individually to your child's abilities and needs. Please see the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you!
Physical Science

Physical Science

Physical science covers a variety of disciplines - offering an introduction to life science, chemistry and physics, and often with elements of earth science, geology, astronomy, meteorology or others. Students learn the scientific method, and engage in detailed, methodical experiments. My background in science (PhD in chemistry) qualifies me in science, but it is my ability to relate to students of all levels that makes me an excellent tutor. I can explain things in simple terms, making them easy to understand and easy to remember. I also help with organization and homework, as that plays a part in the making the grade in any subject. Please read the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for your student.
Praxis

Praxis

Whether you need just a refresher or remedial help for the Praxis Test, I am prepared to help. I have tutored Praxis core (math), elementary education (math and science), mathematics (5161), among others. My expertise and success for clients in standardized test prep can help you quickly get up to speed. With years of experience working with students, and mastery of the content, I can quickly identify weaknesses, and efficiently work with you to overcome them. The secret? Showing you how to break the problems down, truly understanding the math vocabulary and then taking the problem one step at a time. Worried about not being able to use your calculator (some praxis versions only)? I not only show you ways to easily estimate answers, I can also show you short cuts to lengthy calculations. We talk about test strategies, common errors and traps. I have helped many students gain confidence and ability to get the results they need on the math portion of these tests. In addition to specialized concentration in math, as an advanced degree holder myself, I can help you organize your study and review your work for the science component of some praxis exams. Please take a moment to look through my clients' reviews to see if I would be a good fit for you. I look forward to helping you make the grade!
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

I have had much success helping students through pre-algebra. With the fundamentals to algebra and the beginning concepts in geometry being introduced, students can struggle if their math foundation is not strong. It is important to address any difficulties before discouragement sets in. Specific weaknesses are sometimes masked, especially if scores are inconsistent; or if the student doesn't "test well"; or if the student generally struggles with organizational or basic arithmetic skills. When working with a student, I can quickly assess and readily address underlying weaknesses, by looking past whether any one problem is right or wrong, to analyzing how they are thinking about the question, what are their math habits, how is their math vocabulary, and so on. I reach for the overarching skills and disciplines that will build math ability and confidence overall. We build general problem solving skills. We work on accuracy. I use simple ideas and illustrations to explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. It starts by connecting with them at their level. Please see the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
Precalculus

Precalculus

Precalculus can be really tough if the foundations are not strong. Not only is strength in the algebra 2 skills is required - but often difficulties at this level often reach back to something even more basic - for instance: manipulating those massive expressions goes back to really understanding how fractions work... Many students have made it through, year after year, without truly understanding the basics in a way that can be applied as math advances. Others feel their teacher is "speaking a foreign language" and can't explain things simply enough. I can help. When working with a student, I can quickly assess and readily address underlying weaknesses by looking past whether one particular problem is right or wrong, to analyzing how they are thinking about the problem, and looking at the overarching concepts involved. I use simple ideas and illustrations to explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. We build general problem solving skills. We work on accuracy. We build skill and confidence. Please see the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
PSAT

PSAT

I have helped many students achieve high scores on the math portion of the PSAT. Students who do not prepare are in danger of under-performing because they are: 1) not familiar enough with the content, question types and answer formats of the test; 2) not used to the level accuracy required (no partial credit); 3) fazed by the fast paced, timed aspect of the test. I can help on all fronts. We review all the required math- as needed - whether remedially or or advanced. We go over test taking tips and strategies. I can explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. Added bonus - PSAT prep often boosts academic grades as well! I help build skill and confidence so students are prepared. Please see the reviews left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
Regents

Regents

At the end of the school year, students are under much pressure as it is. Reviewing the content of an entire year of course material can be daunting. Furthermore, weak areas, when they were first covered, won't get much easier without targeted help. I can explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember, helping students make quick progress. Often small clarifications, or just being shown something in a different way, can help greatly. With a strong record of tutoring success in Algebra 1, Algebra 2 (with Trig), Geometry and Chemistry, I can help students successfully prepare for these Regents exams. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
SAT Math

SAT Math

I have helped many students prepare or boost their score on the math portion of the SAT. I concentrate on raising both skill and confidence for this test. Not only do we concentrate on the fundamental skills, I teach a way to read those head-spinning math word problems, and make it easy to understand exactly what is being asked. I can explain math concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. We address careless errors and common traps. We discuss the timing of the test and strategies to maximize your score. And, since I always have an eye out for how a student thinks about a problem, I can easily identify and readily address underlying weaknesses, and talk about overarching concepts, instead of just working through to the answer to any one problem, one problem at a time. This leads to faster and more significant progress overall. Please take a look at the reviews clients have left for me on my full WyzAnt profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.
SSAT

SSAT

I have had much success preparing students for the SSAT in math, at all levels. My expertise in standardized test prep and successful math tutoring methods will ensure readiness and confidence for this test. I explain math concepts using simple ideas and illustrations, making them easy to understand and easy to remember. We review the needed math concepts appropriate to the level test the student is taking. Depending on their grade and math background, some students may not yet have learned some of the required math for that level, and that can be unnerving! We prepare for that, and if appropriate, I often can quickly introduce those concepts in a way that is immediately applicable. Additionally, students taking the Upper Level test sometimes panic because they are not allowed to use a calculator on the test. If they are not used to doing math without a calculator, they may find their math skills prone to error, or "rusty". In addition to estimating, I teach methods to simplify calculations, which takes the angst out. Whether you are looking for remedial help to boost a score, or are aiming for the top, I tailor sessions to your child's needs. Please see the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for your student!
Study Skills

Study Skills

With a Ph.D. in chemistry, I have done a lot of studying! "Study smarter, not harder" is certainly true, and I can show you, or your child, how. With a relaxed style, patience and good humor, I can help you build skills to organize tasks, keep track of assignments, make a timeline, get more out of your reading, strengthen your understanding. We build disciplines and skills, seeking out what works for YOU. Short term or long term tasks, I'll help you work it through. Please take a moment to look at the reviews clients have left for me to see if I would be a good fit for you.
TEAS

TEAS

Going on in Nursing? Good for you! Don't let the TEAS beat you. There may be a lot of math and science you haven't seen in a while. I can help get you prepared! Brushing up on math skills is essential for most test takers. I can quickly identify your strengths and weaknesses in math to help you do that efficiently, to maximize your score. I can explain math concepts with simple ideas and illustrations making them easy to understand and easy to remember. We talk about strategies, tips and common traps. I teach how to decipher word problems, set up the right equation, and quickly arrive at the answer. For science - hopefully you've finished Anatomy and Physiology, and bio - the main chunk of the science section. You need to be strong in these subjects. I can assist you in organizing your study - and review with you. The smaller chunk of the science section is chemistry, physics, scientific method and scientific reasoning -- things you may not have seen in a while, and these are things I can easily (re)teach you. I'll break it down for you and help you study only what you need.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

I tutor high school trigonometry - which is often part of an algebra 2 or precalculus course. Many don't realize you are doing math operations and manipulations you've done before - only with more complicated expressions. I can explain concepts in a way that is easy to understand and easy to remember. Please take a look at the reviews left for me on my full wyzant profile to see if I would be a good fit for you.

Examples of Expertise

Diane has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 63 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

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Ratings and Reviews

Rating

5.0 (2,625 ratings)
5 star
(2,577)
4 star
(38)
3 star
(6)
2 star
(2)
1 star
(2)

Reviews

Excellent first day!

Our daughter came away from the first lesson and said "she is REALLY good!" I learned so much in those two hours than I had in school and Diane made it so clear and simple.

Diane, 5 lessons with Diane

Great teacher and very patient

Our daughter has really enjoyed our lessons with Diane and we’re seeing steady progress. Diane is incredibly patient and provides follow-up on all the lessons.

Ryan, 109 lessons with Diane

Amazing Tutor

On my first lesson meeting with Diane for math, she was very patient and made sure to start with the basic to see what was my level of understanding. She then took her time to explain vocabulary and components. She was great at finding ways to make me personally relate with the subjects. She also shared great resources for me to practice.

Jean, 4 lessons with Diane

knowledgeable and patient

Diane is a wonderful tutor who assesses strengths and weaknesses, and communicates progress with parents. She also recommends helpful resources to use outside of class time.

Avital, 15 lessons with Diane

A patient and highly knowledgeable tutor.

Diane is an exceptionally knowledgeable and patient educator. She consistently goes above and beyond to explain complex concepts in a manner that ensures the student fully understands. Her extensive experience in teaching the subject is evident in her ability to break down each concept step by step, making the material more accessible. My daughter required a tutor who could simplify the material, and Diane has proven to be exactly the teacher she needed. After just one lesson, my daughter already feels more confident in her understanding. I highly recommend Diane without hesitation.

Yaritza, 2 lessons with Diane

great teacher

Diane is a great teacher!! My daughter loved the class with her and we will book with her again!! Thank you Diane for your help!

Monica, 4 lessons with Diane

A Gifted Math Tutor Who Makes Learning Fun and Accessible

Diane has been an blessing for my 8th grade daughter's math journey. Her warm and patient approach immediately put my daughter at ease, and she actually looks forward to her tutoring sessions! Diane is able break complex mathematical concepts into pieces that a middle schooler can truly understand and retain. I particularly appreciate how she makes learning visual and interactive by utilizing the whiteboard feature. This has been crucial for helping my daughter grasp geometry and algebra concepts that she previously struggled with. Diane draws out problems, uses different colors to highlight important steps, and creates helpful diagrams that make abstract concepts concrete and accessible. She's also genuinely fun to work with – she celebrates my daughter's successes and knows how to keep her motivated when tackling difficult problems. She's helped my daughter feel more confident and capable. I couldn't recommend Diane more highly!

Ravi, 6 lessons with Diane

Great teacher and very patient

Our daughter has really enjoyed our lessons with Diane and we’re seeing steady progress. Diane is incredibly patient and provides follow-up on all the lessons. Diane provides detailed summaries after each SSAT lesson along with assigned homework to reinforce the lessons.

Ryan, 109 lessons with Diane

Knowledgeable and Patient Tutor

Diane is teaching me Accuplacer math to prepare me and my sister for the accuplacer math test so we can test out of several of our math classes. Diane is very thorough and helpful in her explanations of the concepts. Will schedule another meeting with her!

Mary, 2 lessons with Diane

Good tutor

Diane was knowlegeable and took her time to get to know my daughter. She gave thorough feedback and suggestions for follow up work. I appreciated her prompt communication as well. Good experience

Elizabeth, 1 lesson with Diane
Hourly Rate: $85
Response time: 4 hours
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