Today I observed a math session where the tutor went over different textbook questions with the student. The tutor first went over a question and its working out, explaining each step and checking in with the student to see if he understood. After laying out an example on the board, the student then attempted similar questions on his own. During this, the tutor was actively checking over his work and working out, ensuring he was on the right track and guiding him if he wasn’t. The tutor also guided the student on what technique he should use for each question, which encouraged the student to work out the question himself but also with the support of the tutor. When the student needed help with a question, the tutor slowly explained the question, working together with the student. This ensures that the student is putting in the effort and understanding the work but also allows the tutor to guide the student. After the student attempted the question, the tutor checked over his work and working out to ensure he was understanding the question fully but also doing it properly.

The tutor was able to work through the question with the student by breaking down the elements of the question and what information has been given. Once this was broken down, the tutor then continued the working out on the whiteboard, subbing in the appropriate numbers into the formula. They showed how to work out the question in two ways, substitution and elimination, which allowed the student to decide which method was easier for them and worked for them. The student copying the working out afterwards, allowed the student to lock in their understanding and also gain an example of how to set up their working out. The tutor would also ask extended questions about the example question, to ensure that the student fully understood the question and concepts. From all these techniques used in a session, it allows encouraged student growth under the guide of a tutor.

Cynthia Lam