I had the opportunity to observe Demetria in her session with her Year 3 student. This observation was both insightful and enjoyable! It provided a unique chance to see how a tutor tailors their approach to meet the needs of young learners. Observing a session with a student from this age group offered deeper insights into the specific needs of children around 7-8 years old. At this stage, students are transitioning from foundational learning to applying these skills more independently, which requires a blend of support and encouragement. Demetria skillfully navigated this transition by using interactive strategies and encouraging critical thinking throughout the session. When the student was unsure or struggled with how to answer a question, Demetria displayed immense patience. She rephrased questions and provided relatable examples, ensuring that the student could grasp the concept without simply giving away the answer. This approach not only helped the student feel more confident but also reinforced the importance of problem-solving and independent thought.
Another aspect that stood out to me was the way Demetria communicates with her students. She uses clear, age-appropriate language and a warm, encouraging tone, making the learning environment feel welcoming and supportive. Her communication style creates a sense of trust and comfort, allowing the student to feel confident in asking questions or expressing uncertainty. Demetria’s feedback was always constructive and specific, focusing on effort and the process of learning, rather than simply on achieving the correct result. For instance, when discussing handwriting, Demetria praised the student’s improvements and offered tips for further refinement, emphasising growth over perfection.
Additionally, I was impressed by the strong rapport Demetria had built with her student. The student seemed genuinely happy and engaged, which reflects the positive and nurturing relationship they share. This connection created an environment in which learning felt not only educational but also enjoyable. It was clear that Demetria’s teaching style fosters both academic and emotional growth in her students.
Overall, I found this observation provided me with valuable insights that I plan on implementing in my own sessions.
Natasya Ross
