Donovan H.
Philadelphia, PA
Teacher and Math Tutor with a Deep Content Knowledge
Lafayette College
Civil EngineeringDrexel University
Master'sAbout Donovan
The most important thing for a student is a deep understanding of the math content. I will work with the student at any grade level to move toward understanding rather than memorization. This will help reduce test anxiety and lead to better longterm outcomes.
We will work together to sharpen the problem-solving abilities, so that the
Policies
Cancellation
10 hours notice required2 hour session? Special rate of $70/hour.
Travel Radius
Travels within 6 miles of Philadelphia, PA 19130Donovan offers online lessons
Donovan is approved to conduct lessons through Wyzant Online. Wyzant Online allows students and tutors to work remotely via video, audio, and collaborative whiteboard tools. For more information about how online tutoring works, check out Wyzant Online.
If you’re interested in online lessons, message Donovan to get started.
"Wonderful Tutor!"
- Lisa, Philadelphia, PA on 2/3/16Donovan is always very patient with my daughter and is really helping her to understand different math concepts in order to prepare her for her SAT and ACT.
"Great and patient tutor"
- Carole, Philadelphia, PA on 4/20/17Donovan helped my 7th grader prepare for both the math and literacy sections of the PSSA standardized test. He was reliable, friendly, and patient. He had a respectful, low-key manner when teaching my daughter that I think worked very well for her. My daughter says she felt comfortable asking for help and that he explained things clearly when she needed clarification. I'm very satisfied with the experience and I'm confident that he gave her good preparation for the test. I would definitely recommend him.
"Donovan is amazing!"
- Mary, Philadelphia, PA on 10/29/14There are lots of people out there who are great at math, and Donovan is one of those people. He is also very good at explaining the math, and he is extremely patient. But the thing that puts him over the top is his willingness to work with a student's best way to learn for the best success. I highly recommend him as a math tutor!
"Excellent tutor."
- Elana, Cheltenham, PA on 1/19/14We met Donovan in a Starbucks and he was great. He was right on time and really helpful for my daughter. She said he explained things well and showed her how to complete math problems more easily and more quickly. He was very nice and very focused. I'm very glad we connected with him.
"Great tutor, reliable and patient!"
- Erica, Philadelphia, PA on 11/22/13My daughter gushed, "Mr. Donovan made it easier to understand. I can't wait to take my test!" Apparently he made the content clearer. She seems more confident in approaching the material and the Algebra class in general. Update: She scored a one hundred percent on the most recent test! Thanks Donovan!
Approved subjects are in bold.
Approved subjects
In most cases, tutors gain approval in a subject by passing a proficiency exam. For some subject areas, like music and art, tutors submit written requests to demonstrate their proficiency to potential students. If a tutor is interested but not yet approved in a subject, the subject will appear in non-bold font. Tutors need to be approved in a subject prior to beginning lessons.
ACT Math
As part of my civil engineering degree, I gained a firm grasp on mathematical concepts including all of the critical concepts covered by the ACT math section. I will work specifically with students to target the areas that can be focused on in order to maximize success on the test. I have also taken this exam, and I know the pressures associated with preparing for it, so I will focus on creating situations that equip the student for the day of the test in order to truly convey the material that they have mastered.
Algebra 1
Algebra 1 is my favorite subject. I will be teaching my 8th grade class this material in the fall, and I look forward to helping any student I get the opportunity to work with master the material. I know that it is a fundamental building block for any student's math career, and I will settle for nothing less than a rock solid foundation for each student.
Algebra 2
Research has shown that success in algebra 2 is correlated with future success, even in careers that are not directly related to math. The problem solving techniques necessary for this can be taught and practiced, and I will work with each of my students to ensure that she or he has those tools necessary for future success. I have worked through this material as a student and applied it in my professional career as a civil engineer, and my understanding of its application to everyday life will help make the content more enjoyable for each student.
Calculus
I studied civil engineering in college. During my coursework, I took Calc I, Calc II, Calc III and Differential equations. My knowledge of calculus was also applied in my structural engineering coursework during senior year.
Civil Engineering
I studied civil engineering at Lafayette College and earned a Bachelor's of Science in the field. I worked as an intern at the Department of Transportation, conducted research after my sophomore year with a professor at Lafayette, and I worked as an intern for a consulting firm after my junior year. I passed the fundamentals of engineering exam (FE) in the spring of my junior year. I also worked for a year as an Engineer-in-training at a private firm.
General Computer
If you are someone who feels like you aren't getting the productivity that you could out of your computer, I can help you. I have always spent my time tinkering with the settings in order to maximize the efficiency with which a computer can operate. So, whether you need help setting up your wireless network, setting your desktop background, or configuring a new printer, I can do pretty much anything!
Geometry
I worked as a civil engineer, and needed to use my knowledge of geometry nearly every day. I found that I could create shapes for the structures we were building faster by using the principles from geometry than if I tried to rely on the computer to create those shapes. In addition, I studied and mastered geometry in high school, and I recognize the life applications for each student, regardless of his/her life goals.
GRE
I took the GRE in 2012, after the new GRE had been implemented. I scored in a high percentile, and can help any student to succeed in the math topics that are covered in the GRE.
Macintosh
I have owned a Mac since my senior year of high school (2007), and have been using one ever since. I am especially well-versed in helping people to make the transition from Windows to Mac, as I assisted my parents in the process. My services would be best suited to helping customize a Mac in order to best serve the needs of the user.
Microsoft Excel
All through college I used Excel to present my data, and in the workplace I have done the same. I love to develop formulas that make the routine processes easier, and less time-consuming. If you are just jumping in with Microsoft Excel, I can help you make the experience enjoyable and productive.
Microsoft Outlook
I've been using Microsoft Outlook in a professional setting since 2011, and have learned the ins and outs of the program. I would be able to answer questions regarding how to schedule meetings, import and export contacts and meetings, and creating to-do lists. I can also help to set up the program to automatically sync with smartphones.
Microsoft Windows
I have used Windows in a professional and recreational setting for about 15 years. I have Windows 8 on my computer, and I can help people who are struggling with the adjustment to the new Operating System. I can set up the computer to be customized to best suited for the user (trackpad settings, wireless printing, etc.).
Microsoft Word
I can help users to use Microsoft Word to prepare professional documents such as resumes, papers, lesson plans, etc. My expertise is in helping to find the "little things" that people might not know Microsoft Word is capable of.
Praxis
I received a certificate of excellence in the mathematics praxis. The math praxis covers the material that I teach in my classroom everyday (8th grade math), and I have several textbooks to help guide teachers-to-be through the studying process. I have also held tutoring sessions with fellow teachers seeking certification in math in order to help them pass the praxis.
Prealgebra
Prealgebra is another fundamental component of a math education. The tools gained here will transfer into success after school, whether in college or in a career. I will focus in on the problem solving techniques necessary for success, helping to connect the blocks learned in prealgebra to everyday life in order to engage all students.
Reading
I have volunteered for numerous organizations to help students get back up to grade level in their reading. My wife (an elementary school teacher) has also shown me the essentials for helping students get back on track. In addition, I have a passion for reading, and I believe it is essential to ignite that passion so that others can be spurred on to learn to read.
SAT Math
SAT Math is something that every student can ace. I truly believe that with the right training, every student can get to an 800. My 780 on the SAT math section was due to not reviewing one concept (matrices) before going into the exam, and I therefore ran out of time while solving that problem. I will ensure that every student knows each of the types of problems and has mastered them in order to maximize their score on the SAT math section.
Other Philadelphia, PA Tutors
Donovan H.
Philadelphia, PA
Teacher and Math Tutor with a Deep Content Knowledge