Tutoring Methods
Math tutoring with a different approach. As we approach a new school year, families are preparing for a new way of learning. Though we’ve had a taste of this change this past spring, students and teachers are still adjusting and trying the most effective methods since it will be the new normal soon. At A+ Math Tutoring, we’re here to offer support in different ways because we understand that all students learn differently. Learning Pods, along with our other more well-known methods, have greatly improved students’ participation, focus and understanding of material.
Math Tutoring Learning Pods
Pods create an environment that allows students to feel a bit like being in school; learning while being with friends. It allows for positive social interaction and personalized learning at the same time. Learning pods typically occur at a student’s home where they are together with a group of 1-4 of their close friends or neighbors.
The most-recommended environment, for space and health reasons, is in one’s backyard. This allows for social distancing and fresh air and a great setting for learning. Sessions can be 1 hour in length or up to a half day (~3 hours)
If you’re looking to cover multiple subjects. These longer sessions create an even greater sense of being in a school environment, allowing students to get back into the flow of things.
Tutoring Methods with Experienced Tutors
At A+ Math Tutoring, we offer experienced tutors that specialize in one subject, such as Geometry, Physics or Algebra 1. We also offer certified teachers who specialize in particular grades, allowing them to cover all topics in that grade.
A popular request is to have a tutor/teacher cover current 7th grade topics for 2-3 hours a few times a week. We recommend that the topics covered closely follow what is being taught in their class at the current time. This really allows students to retain focus through the semester, minimizing the chance of falling behind or getting lost in the new online world of learning. There may be times when students feel caught up and wish to be challenged.
Our tutors are always happy to provide this type of support as well, something that is hard to get with their school teacher, especially in the new learning environment. For those that are choosing the homeschool route this year, Learning Pods are the perfect option. It’s a great way to emulate a classroom environment while giving students more personal attention and support than in a regular classroom.
Online (one-on-one and group)
The online methods at A+ Math Tutoring are fun, effective and interactive. These sessions allow students and tutors to write on virtual computer whiteboards, share screens and allow for more flexibility in regards to scheduling and session length. The feedback we’ve received from students is that these types of sessions are as effective as in-person.
One-on-one virtual tutoring sessions are very different and more effective than the Zoom classes that your son/daughter will have through their school. The main platform we use is called Tutorcast, a virtual tutoring tool created specifically for online tutoring. This platform is easy to use and really helps in creating sessions that are clear, interactive and effective.
Prior to a student’s online sessions, he/she can email their tutor any homework, assignment or problems they’d like to review with the tutor. The tutor can upload these problems to the shared screen, which allows for smooth, efficient sessions.
Online tutoring can also be used for group sessions. Sometimes students are taking the same class together, so it can be quite productive to be collaborative in their approach to solving problems. Online tutoring, both individual and group, will be offered at a bit of a discounted rate this year – a nice perk!
In-Person
Some of our tutors at A+ Math Tutoring are offering in-person tutoring this coming fall. This is our original, signature way of tutoring. Though we have the most tutors for math subjects, we offer experienced tutors for all subjects for grades K-12, each tutor carefully interviewed and chosen. In addition to all of the math subjects like Pre-Algebra, Geometry and Algebra 2, we have tutors that specialize in subjects such as History, Writing, English, Chemistry and Biology. For those that opt for in-person tutoring, careful safety measures will be put into place, including masks, social distancing and washing hands. Holding sessions outdoors is always recommended as well as this increases the safety level quite a bit. Families may also opt for a combination of both online and in-person sessions.
This is sometimes beneficial as students may not always need a full hour. For example, sometimes a student may just need clarity on a few homework questions or would like their tutor to check some of their work, which makes the sometimes-online option a great one.
Whatever method above seems to resonate best with your child’s way of learning, the tutors at A+ Math Tutoring are happy to help. Feel free to try a couple different methods to find out what’s best!