Michelle
Certified Tutor
I have been teaching and tutoring for more than 22 years. Math has always been my favorite subject. I have enjoyed helping students attain a better understanding of math. I am certified to teach mathematics in both Florida and Maryland. I currently have a B.S. and M.S. in Mathematics Education. I have teaching experience ranging from the middle school to the community college level, as well tutoring experience from the elementary school to the community college level. I work very well with everyone. I am very patient and will take my time to make sure all students have complete understanding of the material.
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Undergraduate Degree: Florida A & M University - Bachelors, Math Education
Graduate Degree: Florida Atlantic University - Masters, Math Education
Traveling, reading, watching tv/movies, enjoying my family and friends
- 10th Grade Math
- 11th Grade Math
- 12th Grade Math
- 2nd Grade Math
- 6th Grade Math
- 7th Grade Math
- 8th Grade Math
- 9th Grade Math
- Algebra
- Algebra 3/4
- Applied Mathematics
- Arithmetic
- College Algebra
- College Math
- Developmental Algebra
- Elementary Algebra
- Elementary Math
- Elementary School Math
- GED Prep
- GED Math
- Geometry
- IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Intermediate Algebra
- Math
- Pre-Algebra
- Pre-Calculus
- Test Prep
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe all students are capable of learning with the appropriate guidance, patience and practice.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I like to introduce myself to the student and get to know a little about them: what they understand and what they do not understand. The student and I have to be able to build a positive working relationship.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
I have learned many techniques and strategies that I feel can help a student transition from an dependent learner to an independent learner.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I remind students that math is like a sport or playing an instrument. It starts off very shaky, but with practice, endurance and motivation, it will get better and better. BUT, you must TRY and NEVER give up.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
I have to determine what the issue or problem is. Perhaps a review is needed to learn the prerequisite skills. I may reteach the topic to the student using different approaches.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I will help the student by reading the passage or statement. Then, I underline key facts and circle unfamiliar words. I let the student know we may have to re-read the passage or statement a few times to make sure we completely understand the passage.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
The strategies that I have found that are the most successful when working with a student: 1. Build a positive relationship 2. Listen to the student 3. Provide assistance and examples 4. Excellent interpersonal skills 5. Give immediate feedback and praise
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
Let the student know that this is a work in progress. It will take time to become a math expert. I let them know that I love math, and they just have to like it. I like to break the ice and ask them, "What has math done to you?"
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
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Clear goals and objectives
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High expectations
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Provide a variety of teaching methods
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Model the work
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Provide an adequate amount of examples
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Have students work a few problems and explain their work
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
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Immediate feedback and praise to the student.
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Develop an excellent working relationship with the student
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Listen to the student
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
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Look through their notes and notebook to determine how they are taking notes.
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Check their grades and/or grade sheet to determine any issues
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Talk with the student and/or parent(s) or guardians
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Provide a pre-test to determine deficient skills
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Determine if student has any special needs (IEP or 504)
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
I listen to my students and their needs. I adjust my teaching style and strategies to my students.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
First, I look at what the student is working on. Then I use their book, notes and homework. Then I create problems and use their book .