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Clark N.'s Photo
Clark N.'s Photo
Clark N.'s Photo

Clark N.

Physics and Mathematics tutor, Harvard-trained with NASA experience

Physics and Mathematics tutor, Harvard-trained with NASA experience

$56/hour

4.9 (881 ratings)

  • 3,033 hours tutoring

About Clark

Bio

I am an experienced high school physics and mathematics teacher, retired, with Massachusetts certification in both areas. I am very much aware of the challenges many students face in their early encounters with physics and mathematics, and work to build confidence as well as proficiency. I have taught various levels of mathematics--through calculus--as standalone courses and as part of the content of physics courses, so I have a range of pedagogical strategies to employ in these...

I am an experienced high school physics and mathematics teacher, retired, with Massachusetts certification in both areas. I am very much aware of the challenges many students face in their early encounters with physics and mathematics, and work to build confidence as well as proficiency. I have taught various levels of mathematics--through calculus--as standalone courses and as part of the content of physics courses, so I have a range of pedagogical strategies to employ in these areas.

Prior to my teaching career a lifelong interest in--and deep affection for--mathematics and physics led me to wonderful adventures as a guidance, navigation and control engineer in the aerospace industry. While a NASA employee on the Apollo Project, I made extensive use of algebra and calculus in the development of orbital rendezvous techniques (Atlantic: : https://www.theatlantic.com/video/index/593968/apollo-11/). Later on I participated in the design of the space shuttle and the development of the first GPS operating software. These experiences have given me an informed perspective as regards both teaching and applications of the subjects I tutor.

Fot the time being I am only meeting students online. The Wyzant on-line tutoring platform is a highly effective and transparent medium providing the same degree of personal interaction as face-to-face meetings, and much greater flexibility of scheduling. It also gracefully supports full exploitation of the MathCad computer-aided mathematics tool, which is the gold standard for on-screen creation, visualization and discussion of mathematically-based material.

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Education

University of Maine
BA Physics
Harvard Graduate School of Education
MEd
University of Houston (Physics)
Graduate Coursework

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $56
  • Rate details: Minimum charge for a lesson is 1 hour.
  • Lesson cancellation: 12 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 9/18/2017

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Subjects

Homeschool

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 introduces the concept of symbolic representation of numbers whose value is unspecified, and also the basic notion of relations between sets of numbers specified by a recipe called a "function." Operations upon and between functions provide a basis for discovering important properties of relations, properties of number sets, and methods of representation. The axioms and common understandings of Algebra 1 are common to all other algebras, such as vector algebra, and are therefore the essential foundation for all further study in mathematics.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 skills, including factoring, finding roots, solving sets of equations and classifying functions by their properties, are a necessary foundation for trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus and linear algebra. Particularly important are operations with exponents and an understanding of the definition and properties of logarithms.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is one of the three legs on which most mathematically-based disciplines rest. The other two are linear algebra and the stochastic systems (statistics), which come together in advanced courses. Everyone intending to pursue studies in basic science (including life sciences), engineering or economics should have a good foundation in introductory calculus.
Physics,

Physics

Mechanics is the basis of physics, physics is the basis of most fields of application, particularly in engineering. In addition to fundamental concepts, the study of physics develops the ability to think mathematically, and apply mathematical methods to many problems of interest, including outside of physics. Physics often provides a context for visualizing mathematical constructs and operations, which in turn feed back into a better understanding of the physics. For this reason, the concurrent study of mathematics and physics is synergistic in its effects and should always be preferred if it can be arranged.
Precalculus

Precalculus

Pre-calculus is the gate-keeper course for transition to calculus, and is therefore as important as calculus itself for those intending or needing to study higher mathematics. Typically it includes a review of basic algebra topics; various types of functions--including trigonometric and polynomial; series; limits; and an introduction to vectors. Most troubles with introductory calculus are traceable to an inadequate mastery of algebra and trigonometry.

Math

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 introduces the concept of symbolic representation of numbers whose value is unspecified, and also the basic notion of relations between sets of numbers specified by a recipe called a "function." Operations upon and between functions provide a basis for discovering important properties of relations, properties of number sets, and methods of representation. The axioms and common understandings of Algebra 1 are common to all other algebras, such as vector algebra, and are therefore the essential foundation for all further study in mathematics.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 skills, including factoring, finding roots, solving sets of equations and classifying functions by their properties, are a necessary foundation for trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus and linear algebra. Particularly important are operations with exponents and an understanding of the definition and properties of logarithms.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is one of the three legs on which most mathematically-based disciplines rest. The other two are linear algebra and the stochastic systems (statistics), which come together in advanced courses. Everyone intending to pursue studies in basic science (including life sciences), engineering or economics should have a good foundation in introductory calculus.
Physics,

Physics

Mechanics is the basis of physics, physics is the basis of most fields of application, particularly in engineering. In addition to fundamental concepts, the study of physics develops the ability to think mathematically, and apply mathematical methods to many problems of interest, including outside of physics. Physics often provides a context for visualizing mathematical constructs and operations, which in turn feed back into a better understanding of the physics. For this reason, the concurrent study of mathematics and physics is synergistic in its effects and should always be preferred if it can be arranged.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

Pre-calculus is the gate-keeper course for transition to calculus, and is therefore as important as calculus itself for those intending or needing to study higher mathematics. Typically it includes a review of basic algebra topics; various types of functions--including trigonometric and polynomial; series; limits; and an introduction to vectors. Most troubles with introductory calculus are traceable to an inadequate mastery of algebra and trigonometry.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

As noted above, trigonometry is usually encountered as a part of a pre-calculus course. In my view, much of the traditional material associated with trigonometry should be replaced by an introduction to the linear algebra of vectors, which provides alternative methods of solving many of the problems encountered in trigonometry, and is much more generally useful.

Most Popular

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 introduces the concept of symbolic representation of numbers whose value is unspecified, and also the basic notion of relations between sets of numbers specified by a recipe called a "function." Operations upon and between functions provide a basis for discovering important properties of relations, properties of number sets, and methods of representation. The axioms and common understandings of Algebra 1 are common to all other algebras, such as vector algebra, and are therefore the essential foundation for all further study in mathematics.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 skills, including factoring, finding roots, solving sets of equations and classifying functions by their properties, are a necessary foundation for trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus and linear algebra. Particularly important are operations with exponents and an understanding of the definition and properties of logarithms.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is one of the three legs on which most mathematically-based disciplines rest. The other two are linear algebra and the stochastic systems (statistics), which come together in advanced courses. Everyone intending to pursue studies in basic science (including life sciences), engineering or economics should have a good foundation in introductory calculus.
Physics,

Physics

Mechanics is the basis of physics, physics is the basis of most fields of application, particularly in engineering. In addition to fundamental concepts, the study of physics develops the ability to think mathematically, and apply mathematical methods to many problems of interest, including outside of physics. Physics often provides a context for visualizing mathematical constructs and operations, which in turn feed back into a better understanding of the physics. For this reason, the concurrent study of mathematics and physics is synergistic in its effects and should always be preferred if it can be arranged.
Precalculus

Precalculus

Pre-calculus is the gate-keeper course for transition to calculus, and is therefore as important as calculus itself for those intending or needing to study higher mathematics. Typically it includes a review of basic algebra topics; various types of functions--including trigonometric and polynomial; series; limits; and an introduction to vectors. Most troubles with introductory calculus are traceable to an inadequate mastery of algebra and trigonometry.

Science

Astronomy,

Astronomy

While growing up I was an active amateur astronomer, and I have taught this subject at the introductory level. I have the good fortune to be married to a professional astronomer who occasionally involves me in her work on symbiotic star systems.
Physics

Physics

Mechanics is the basis of physics, physics is the basis of most fields of application, particularly in engineering. In addition to fundamental concepts, the study of physics develops the ability to think mathematically, and apply mathematical methods to many problems of interest, including outside of physics. Physics often provides a context for visualizing mathematical constructs and operations, which in turn feed back into a better understanding of the physics. For this reason, the concurrent study of mathematics and physics is synergistic in its effects and should always be preferred if it can be arranged.

Summer

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 introduces the concept of symbolic representation of numbers whose value is unspecified, and also the basic notion of relations between sets of numbers specified by a recipe called a "function." Operations upon and between functions provide a basis for discovering important properties of relations, properties of number sets, and methods of representation. The axioms and common understandings of Algebra 1 are common to all other algebras, such as vector algebra, and are therefore the essential foundation for all further study in mathematics.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 skills, including factoring, finding roots, solving sets of equations and classifying functions by their properties, are a necessary foundation for trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus and linear algebra. Particularly important are operations with exponents and an understanding of the definition and properties of logarithms.
Calculus,

Calculus

Calculus is one of the three legs on which most mathematically-based disciplines rest. The other two are linear algebra and the stochastic systems (statistics), which come together in advanced courses. Everyone intending to pursue studies in basic science (including life sciences), engineering or economics should have a good foundation in introductory calculus.
Physics

Physics

Mechanics is the basis of physics, physics is the basis of most fields of application, particularly in engineering. In addition to fundamental concepts, the study of physics develops the ability to think mathematically, and apply mathematical methods to many problems of interest, including outside of physics. Physics often provides a context for visualizing mathematical constructs and operations, which in turn feed back into a better understanding of the physics. For this reason, the concurrent study of mathematics and physics is synergistic in its effects and should always be preferred if it can be arranged.

Examples of Expertise

Clark has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 48 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

See all of Clark ’s answers ›

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (881 ratings)
5 star
(813)
4 star
(60)
3 star
(8)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(0)

Reviews

Show reviews that mention

All reviews patient highly recommend succeed helpful great tutor

Featured review

Excellent tutor, very encouraging!

I contacted Clark at the beginning of fall semester for assistance on my Calculus I course. I lacked the basics to understand and be able to succeed in the class but with Clark's patience and constant encouragement I was able to pass and actually understand Calculus. He is a wonderful tutor and a great person in general. I would highly recommend him to anyone I know. Honest, helpful, and encouraging are just some of the words that can be used to describe Clark. Thank you for helping me overcome my difficulties and ultimately succeed in the course! 

Desiree, 16 lessons with Clark

Knowledgeable and experienced

My son had his initial pre-calculus session with Clark. He found the session helpful. Clark helped clarify matetial learned in school, and my son was able to immediately apply what he learned. We are looking forward to addition sessions with Clark.

Sorana, 1 lesson with Clark

Excellent teacher

Clark N was able to bring confidence back into my son. He is looking forward to starting college next week knowing he has someone to help explain when he doesn’t understand a math concept. Clark N takes his time and works at the speed of the student instead of rushing thru material. Highly recommended!

Irene, 12 lessons with Clark

Patient and Prepared

Prepared, asked for materials in advance, compassionate, thorough - fantastic experience. Goal is to help you learn - he even sent links to helpful materials. Also very communicative, which helps tremendously!

Carmen, 28 lessons with Clark

Clark is a great tutor!

My son has met with Clark 3 times and is very happy. He finds it helpful reviewing a few things and getting ready for the new school year. Clark is passionate about math and my son appreciates to have the chance to ask any questions he may have.

Pia, 10 lessons with Clark

Knowledgeable and caring

He taught my son primarily physics with also elements of math, which is his strong point. He’s very good with helping kids achieve their goals by being a champion for their grasp of the subject matter and teaching them to aim high! I would highly recommend CLark!

Ruhina, 50 lessons with Clark

Extremely knowledgeable and passionate!

It is easy to say that Mr. N is an expert in his teaching. He is able to dissect each problem, not only with extreme accuracy, but is also able to explain a topic extremely knowledgeably, and passionately! He has helped my both expand my knowledge of physics, and grow my passion for the subject! If you are looking for someone who knows their stuff, then I would highly recommend Mr. N!

Tyler, 15 lessons with Clark

Outstanding teacher, true master of subjects taught

We feel very lucky to have found such a sharp, knowledgeable, and incredibly resourceful tutor. Plus an amazing teacher with wealth of experience, wisdom and patience. Very able to adapt to student learning style (visual learning for my son), and help students understand and build on fundamentals and beyond. He is helping our son with Algebra 2 very successfully so far. We will not hesitate to engage for physics help too, when time comes.

Azra, 37 lessons with Clark

Intelligent and really helpful!

I had a great experience with Clark. I needed help with some Calc 2 hw problems. He took the time to review/solve the problems before our lesson and went over them with me in detail. He sent me additional notes on a particular problem after our lesson which was icing on the cake! Clark went above and beyond, and I really appreciated his advice (:

April, 1 lesson with Clark

Excellent Tutor

Clark is a fantastic tutor and helped my Son with his calculus class. A few specific topics were challenging for my Son, but Clark got him back on track for his final. Clark was so helpful and prepared for their session. Clark made it so easy to fit in sessions that worked with his school schedule. We recommend him highly.

Mona, 3 lessons with Clark
Contact Clark

Response time: 45 minutes

$56/hour

Clark N.'s Photo

Clark N.

$56/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

  • Find the right fit, or your first hour is free

Contact Clark

Response time: 45 minutes