I believe learning should be fun, engaging and practical. I love using fun activities to reinforce a new concept. I also enjoy showing students how they will use their academic skills in the real world.

A typical first session involves the student and I getting to know each other, while I also assess their academic level in the subject.

When teaching something new I follow this guideline: I do, we do, you do. First, I give an example, then we practice together. Finally, it's the students turn to show me how they apply the new concept. Since this is the same layout I use each time, the student already knows that they will be expected to try something new on their own. They will be comfortable, confident and independent.

Motivation can vary depending on the student. I would learn what types of things my student is interested in and then devise a personal study goal. For example, I may use a chart to graph a student's progress, and when they reach their goal, they get to choose from the prize box.

I would first try a new and different way of explaining the concept. Then I would give extra practice, which highlights only that concept. Sometimes it takes a few tries for new skills to sink in. The most important thing is to keep up the student's confidence in themselves, and their ability to master the skill.

I like to first start with material that the student would find interesting. Once they see reading as a fun activity, then it will be easier for them to read new material that is outside of their initial interests.

I love to utilize icebreakers and warm ups. Having fun at the beginning of a session while warming up our brains has never failed me!

I like to use relevant material that also includes my student's interests. For example, I may cut out a neat news story that my student would enjoy and then ask them to read it aloud to me.

I use both informal and formal assessments at each session. An informal assessment is me mentally gauging where my student is at. There is no grade given for effort. A formal assessment is when the student knows that his or her skills are being tested for how well the material has been mastered.

I point out when a student is on the right path towards finding the answer or achieving a goal. For example, a student might forget how to do the last step in a math problem, but I let them know which steps they did correctly and that is something to celebrate!

I use informal and formal assessments. I also am very flexible and will adjust the material covered as the student advances in an area or requires more time to master a skill.

Every student is different, and we all have different learning styles and methods. As I get to know my student, I can utilize forms that work best for him or her. For example, if my student becomes engaged when doing math on a tablet, I will use technology in our session.

I usually use a supplemental book, and I like to get a copy of the student's book(s) used in their academic studies. I also use fun reward systems to celebrate success in achieving a learning goal.