Private 1:1 Tutoring

My Approach

For ACT/SAT prep, I usually begin with a diagnostic assessment to evaluate my students’ mathematical abilities, because the math portion of the test is what differs most significantly between the two tests.

For SSAT/ISEE, I usually begin with a review of vocabulary and then work on Math skills while the student continues to study vocabulary independently.

For homework help, I work on the material that the student needs to complete, while also keeping an eye out for the types of problems they are likely to encounter throughout high school or college. I am familiar with a variety of curricula due to having taught within spaces like Schechter Manhattan and Success Academy at the seventh and eight grade level.

I keep track of our homework assignments in a shared google drive. If the student is having trouble keeping up with assignments, I may develop an “accountabilibuddy” system, whereby we exchange texts before and after each assignment.

While working with a student, I make note of their learning style and try to explain the material in the medium that makes the most sense to them. I also occasionally incorporate grounding exercises or physical movement at the beginning of the lesson, to improve the students’ relaxation and therefore retention of the material.

What Happens In A Session

• Review of the homework that has been assigned, and any major scheduling obstacles to future homework

• Targeted work on subjects that need the most support. Earlier in the tutoring relationship, I like to focus on stronger subjects, to develop rapport and momentum. As we progress in our work together, I will often pivot to focusing the lesson on the most difficult topics, reserving the more facile subjects for homework that the student completes independently.

• Meditation and reiki, as well as energy readings to determine the alignment of mind and body within the student before beginning the work, and occasionally during the lesson if the student seems to be making careless mistakes. I usually keep this information to myself and simply use it to guide the lesson, but am happy to discuss it if a family is interested.

The Results

Most families are impressed with the extent of a students’ improvement.

• Significantly improved scores on the ACT, SAT, ISEE or SHSAT

  • Most students can expect a significant improvement within 3-4 months of tutoring.

• More well-rested and confident students

  • If sleep and confidence are issues, we will address them in the session. Often, discussing confidence is less useful than developing effective strategies that improve a student’s ability to perform, Likewise, rather than discussing anxiety, I often describe how breathing can reduce anxiety biologically.

• Family relationships are less strained

  • I invite my families to incorporate me as a buffer; I can follow up with the student so that parents don’t have to!

Options

I suggest 90 minute lessons once per week if the student is comfortable with focusing for that length of time, and two 60 minute lessons per week if the student struggles with attention or endurance.

For academic support with Math and Science, as well as Executive Functioning, I suggest we connect by phone to create a plan that is specific to the needs of the student.