Today, I observed Olga and Elise tutor their students. I opted to observe these two wonderful tutors to recognise the niches between primary and high school tuition. Below are some of my key takeaways:
Attentiveness:
As primary school students tend to become tired throughout the hour, constant attention is integral. Elise was very attentive to her student’s mistakes and working out even when he was working independently. I admire how Elise was also able to read her student’s facial expressions that reflected his emotional state regarding the completion of more complex questions. Rather than asking him about his confusion, she immediately showed him the correct method for answering questions. Elise also kept the focus at the table by using the mini whiteboard and inviting him to write and add his answers on it. Olga mirrored Elise’s behaviour but utilised the bigger whiteboard to break down the working out. This ensured clarity when solving complex equations, preventing her student from becoming discouraged.
Engagement:
Elise ensured that the student was engaged in the lesson through frequent games of hangman to help correct spelling with a focus on vowels. Alternatively, Olga prompted her student to explain his working out and thought processes by asking him numerous questions. In turn, this ensured that the student’s answers and responses were more meaningful and allowed him to think more critically rather than guessing the answers. Both tutors also provided their student’s with an array of options on what to work on first meaning that the student has a degree of control and choice in the lesson, ultimately leading them to be more engaged in their learning.
Creating a comfortable environment:
I admired the tutors ability to address their student’s mistakes in a light hearted way that was also empowering rather than discouraging. By using a soft tone, acknowledging their efforts, the students were then comfortable and eager to hear the correct solutions to their questions and were more accepting of their tutor’s insights. Both tutors used encouraging and motivating language while celebrating their small wins with them. It was apparent that both students had a great relationship with their tutor as they were excited to share their interests.
Overall, these two lessons were very valuable in inspiring my tuition as a high school and primary tutor and I will definitely be implementing their strategies and approaches into my sessions.
Marina Nouris
