Math Tutoring: Evaluating Your Tutor

>should also be able to relay information pertaining
When it comes to schooling, perhaps no subject isto how the student learns best, so that parents
more difficult to children than math. While thereand teachers can best apply these methods.
are indeed many students who excel atTutors should encourage independence. Students
mathematics, those who have trouble often find itshould be shown how to recognize concept
hard to ask for help. When it comes to schooling,application in context in order to fall in line with the
perhaps no subject is more difficult to childrencurrent lesson plan. The idea is not to use the
than math. While there are indeed many studentstutor as a permanent means, but rather to build
who excel at mathematics, those who haveup the student’s confidence and knowledge
trouble often find it difficult to ask for help. Mathso that they might better be able to help
tutoring is an effective way to bridge thethemselves. While this may take some time, it is
communication barrier between the lesson plana goal to look forward to.
and the student. In this article, we will outline aThe relationship between tutor and student should
few tips and tricks to help you find your match.be compatible. The individual being tutored can
A quality tutor should engage the student withmake this call easily, after a few lessons have
questions that directly involve them in the lesson.passed. When dealing with a child who does not
If a student is falling behind on their studies due towant to be tutored, you may ask them whether
frustration or lack of engagement on the part ofthey would enjoy a different tutor, or if they
the lesson plan or teacher, hiring a tutor that doessimply do not enjoy the process overall.
the same will not help anything. Make sure there isA good tutor should be realistic and truthful, while
a consistent level of involvement, and talk to youroptimistic and supportive at the same time. It is
student in regard to the sessions afterwards.important that the tutor not promise “A”s,
In addition, a tutor should be able to providebut rather indicate that everything possible is
detailed information regarding the progress beingbeing done to help the student understand the
made. Students should be given accurate andcurrent lesson.
detailed feedback on their work, parents shouldAfter all is said and done, trust your gut. If you
be made aware how prepared a child is for afeel it simply isn’t working out, then it may
test, and the teacher should be aware of anynot be a good fit. Talk to you child and evaluate
concepts that the student shows difficultythe situation as time goes by. Other options will
understanding.always be available when the time is taken to
After a few lessons, the tutor should beginning tolook.
adapt to the child’s learning style. They