My teaching philosophy is that no one was born prescient. Therefore all the knowledge that any one individual has was acquired. I believe that we are able to acquire vast amounts of knowledge, given the proper approach for each subject and learner.

Introductions: finding out what makes my student happy, what is his/her preferred setting for studying, what their goals are short and long-term, and what they want out of our tutoring session. After ascertaining his/her current level, I would discuss with them what he/she thinks is the most productive way for us to achieve his/her goal together.

By having my student realize what is his/her most effective learning method/approach.

By keeping my student focused on his/her own formulated short and long-term goals. It may just be a sense of pride in themselves and their parents or me when the goals are met. It may be the fact that a particular score will get my student whatever their target is (better chance for college admission, a promised treat from their parent, etc.).

I would reassess the foundations. I find that, most often, skills and concepts are more challenging when the foundations are lacking

I start with very simple reading material and have my students read aloud to me and explain to me what they have just read. Then I expand on this approach using my complex material. Once I'm comfortable that my student's comprehension is appropriate for the reading level, then we move to more formal testing approaches for reading comprehension assessment.

This varies with the student population. Some students try to ascertain how much I actually know before they "entrust" their learning to me. And that is fine. So for those students, I may start with a Q&A session on the target topic. Or if the student is advanced enough as determined by pre-session assessment, we may jump right into it.

By helping my student realize how the "offending" hurdle fits into their greater plans. By reminding my student of the fact that obstacles are victories not just won, and by trying to figure out together how to "make it happen."

I would ask my student to close the book and explain the topic to me in his/her own words. I would ask my student to draw an illustration of their understanding of the topic. Finally, I would ask my student to become a teacher and write some test questions on the material.

By making sure that my student realizes that he/she can master the subject given the right approach and, of course, hard work. I would cite actual examples from my experience of students who started out believing that they knew very little of a topic actually acquiring national certification level knowledge. We would start from what we know and build up on that.

My philosophy of learning is based on a holistic approach. My students are not parts. So I examine not just the academics but also the surroundings, the support system, the dreams and aspirations of my students, and whatever obstacles current or future that may impede their progress.

I may have to change my approach, my learning tools, or my complexity level to match the student's current needs.

I use whatever materials my students require. I have used pictures, catchy tunes and mnemonics, pictures, models, pre-screened websites with practice items, animations and demonstrations. The only thing I do not do is stand on my head(I'm no longer 18)!