James

Certified Tutor

I have a bachelor's degree in Communication, and I have taught high school English and middle school language arts. I have also taught Social Studies classes (including World History, American History, and U.S. Government).I love language, literature and history; and I enjoy traveling and learning about different cultures.

I appreciate a lively debate, but I always stay focused on substantive issues, encouraging students to listen to divergent points of view; evaluate the merits of an argument; recognize and acknowledge prejudice; and expose logical fallacies. I specialize in the art of clear communication, having mastered the traits of good writing, as well as the styles and forms appropriate to different genres (i.e. different types of writing including, of course, academic composition, such as essays, research papers etc.). I am an excellent listener, and I use dialogue and logic to discover quickly the areas that are most challenging for my students, allowing us to embark on a practical course of study that will measurably improve their performance in short order.

As a substitute teacher, I have learned to develop a rapport with a wide variety of students and to assess their prior knowledge, up front (within minutes), in order to maximize the opportunity for learning. I have adapted lesson plans to meet students needs, adjusting to the time allotted. And I have learned how to deal with a wide range of behavior issues, always treating students with respect, while maintaining order in the classroom. I value the opportunity to work with students, one on one, because it allows me to identify and focus on the core issues that, when mastered, will yield the greatest possible gain in their academic career, as well as their personal growth.