Why is 1-on-1 tutoring so effective? The Power of 1:1 Tutoring

Tutoring has proven to be one of the most important academic supports you can provide a student. The 1:1 tutoring model is highly effective and this individualized tutoring approach allows students to flourish and achieve academic success. 

Read to discover  why 1:1 tutoring has a huge impact on a student’s academic success: 

Relationship Building: The 1:1 tutoring model focuses on building a relationship between the student and the tutor. Once a tutor and student have created a positive rapport, this establishes a solid foundation and a successful partnership is formed. 

Individualized Program: The 1:1 tutoring model allows for a more intensive tutoring approach. The tutor can personalize the program to meet the student’s needs. The tutor designs the program around the student’s learning goals, learning style and learning pace. 

Feedback & Collaboration:  1:1 tutoring fosters feedback & collaboration between the tutor and student. This open dialogue allows the student to attain immediate feedback on their performance, which leads to more immediate understanding of the material, and faster progress is achieved. 

Increased Engagement: 1:1 tutoring model encourages active participation and engagement from the student. Students tend to take greater learning risks and feel more confident and motivated within this learning environment. 

Flexible Teaching Methods: 1:1 tutoring allows for more flexible teaching and learning methods. Tutors can be nimble and move at the pace of the individual student. This teaching flexibility allows for a more engaging and enjoyable learning experience for the student. 

Overall the 1:1 tutoring model has proven to be effective for students. The relationship building, individualized programming, open feedback and collaboration, increased student engagement and flexible teaching methods all contribute to an effective learning model for all students. 

Learn more about Team Tutor’s personalized tutoring programs or call us today at 215-657-1981.

How Do I Know When My Child Needs a Tutor?

How Do I Know When My Child Needs a Tutor? 

Understanding and determining the right time to hire a tutor can be crucial to your child’s academic success. Do not wait until report card period time to make that decision. You want to enlist a tutor early enough to help keep motivation and confidence high. 

Here are some signs to help you decide when it’s the right time to hire a tutor. 

Lack of Interest or Motivation: If you are seeing a level of disinterest in school, a lack of motivation to do homework or your child is  expressing a lack of confidence in their abilities, tutoring may be a good option to help your child improve their motivation and confidence. 

Grades Are Slipping: If your child is not performing well on tests or quizzes and their grades are slipping, this can be a sign that your child needs subject tutoring support. If your child is not handing in assignments or completing projects, your child may benefit from tutoring in areas of executive functioning skills

Behavioral Changes: Students that exhibit behavioral changes may be attributed to stress related to academic struggles. They may be frustrated and not realize they are struggling academically. Communicate with your child’s teacher early and often. Discuss these behavioral changes to determine if a tutor can support any issues related to academics. 

School Avoidance: Is your child saying, “I do not want to go to school?” Or “I hate school.”  These warning signs can be due to an academic struggle that they may be experiencing. Talk with your child and try to assess and  learn what may be causing these emotional reactions. This may be rooted in an academic struggle. 

When seeking the support of a tutor, it’s important to communicate with your child,  their teachers and school staff to gain insights on your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Also, early tutor intervention is most effective, so do not delay in enlisting the support of a tutor. 

Learn more how Team Tutor can help by calling us today, 215-657-1981. 

 

How Tutors Enhance Learning Beyond The Classroom

In the evolving landscape of education, the role of tutors has become increasingly important. As students face an increase in learning challenges, the impact of personalized tutoring support outside the traditional classroom setting needs to be considered. 

 

Let’s explore the ways in which Team Tutor  enhances the learning experience for students of all ages beyond the classroom:  

 

Personalized Approach:

Our tutors provide customized tutoring to address individual learning styles and needs. From our one-on-one sessions to our small group tutoring, we delve into the power of personalized instruction to unlock  each student’s fullest potential.

 

Filling the Gaps:

Our tutors bridge the gaps in learning that students may encounter during regular classroom instruction. Whether it’s tackling challenging concepts or reinforcing foundational skills, our tutors play a crucial role in solidifying academic foundations.

 

Building Confidence:

Our tutors contribute to building students’ confidence through positive reinforcement, encouragement, and constructive feedback.  Our tutors empower learners to overcome academic obstacles and develop a resilient mindset.

 

It’s More Than Just Good Grades:

Beyond merely achieving good grades, our tutoring programs focus on holistic learning. Our tutors build academic and life long skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper appreciation for the subject matter.

 

Test Preparation Strategies:

Our tutors equip students with effective strategies for upcoming tests. From time management tips to stress-reducing techniques, to best study tips, our tutors can support your child by helping them reduce anxiety, increase their confidence and become successful test takers.  

 

Real-World Applications:

Our tutors connect theoretical knowledge to real-world applications and make learning more meaningful for students. Our tutors help learners understand the relevance of academic concepts in various contexts.

 

Addressing Learning Styles:

Explore the adaptability of our tutors in catering to different learning styles. Whether a student is a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner, our tutors tailor their approach to ensure that information is presented in a way that resonates with each individual student.

 

A Partner in Education:

Our tutoring program is more than an educational service—it’s a team partnership between the tutor, student, parent and the school!  Our tutoring programs foster a collaborative effort that leads to maximizing learning outcomes and creating a supportive learning environment.

 

In conclusion, Team Tutor  plays an invaluable role in shaping the educational journey of our students. As education continues to evolve, our tutors serve as  a beacon of personalized support: guiding learners toward academic success and a lifelong love for learning.

Learn more about our tutoring programs or call us to day for a free consultation: 215-657-1981.

SMART Goal Setting For Student Success

Goal setting is important for students. Goal setting creates the foundation for academic success. Setting goals fosters intention and promotes motivation. It personalizes the learning for the student and it also establishes a framework for student so they can advocate for what they need throughout their educational journey.

What is the best way to create goals that will enhance a student’s academic success? Incorporate SMART goals!  The act of creating SMART goals not only gets you closer to your goals but it also enhances your ability to overcome challenges that you encounter. SMART goals build resiliency, self-confidence and self- belief. Additional benefits of SMART goal setting includes improved executive function skills such as organization, prioritization, initiation and responsibility! There are so many benefits to incorporating SMART goals into your student’s daily regimen.

SMART stands for specific, measurable, action plan, realistic & timely. Teaching students how to create SMART goals will give students the tools that they will need to be successful in school and beyond. Here are some tips to remember when you are creating your  SMART goals:

S: Specific

  • What exactly do you want to accomplish with this goal? Remember good goals are clear and easily definable.

M: Measurable 

  • How will you know when you meet your goal? You must be able to measure your progress toward your goals so you know when you have reached it. Good goals are measurable, this lets you know when you have reached your goal.

A: Action Plan

  • Create an action plan to meet your goal! This action plan tells you where you are going.

R: Realistic

  • Is your goal realistic? Make sure goal is not too hard and not too easy to achieve.

T: Timely: 

  • What is your deadline you set to meet your goal? Set a goal date when you want to achieve your goal.

Work together with your child to create SMART goals.  Once you have created your SMART goals post them so you can see them on a daily basis. Good luck and let us know how you are making out with your SMART goal planning!

Goal setting is an integral part of our study skills program. Contact our team to learn more, 215-657-1981.

Goal Setting for Students

Happy New Year!  January is one of my favorite months of the year. It’s an excellent time to reset and reassess your goals. Take a deep dive into what is working and what is not working! Here are some ideas for both you and your child to help with setting homework, study, mindset, time management and down time goals. Breaking up your goals in these 5 areas will help your child establish a sense of balance in their academic life.  

5 Goals For Academic Success: 

  1. Homework Goals: Homework time can be super stressful in many households. However, with these 3 simple goals you can have a stress-free homework time:
  • Commit to giving 100% during homework time.
  • Attempt doing your work independently before seeking help. Once you have tried 3 times independently then you can seek help from your parents or peers.
  • Do your homework as soon as you come home from school. Creating a consistent routine will help you stay focused and minimize stress.
  1. Study Goals: Creating some simple and concise study goals will help you minimize stress and establish effective study strategies. Not all strategies will work for everyone so pick one or two that are aligned to your learning style. Once you find a few that work for you, stay committed to them for a minimum of 8 weeks. 
  • Commit to studying a little each day. Be sure to practice skills daily. This approach will minimize stress and give you a strong foundation for success.   
  • Diversify the way you study by incorporating a variety of study methods. Utilize flash cards, integrate computer games, work with a study partner, or record yourself stating some facts. Using a variety of study tools will keep you engaged and focused, and create ultimate school success.
  • Use technology to study. Use sources such as Quizlet.com or Vocabulary.com
  1. Growth Mindset Goals: Establishing a growth mindset will foster a lifelong pattern of success. It will give you the tools you need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. 
  • When you encounter difficulties in school, stay positive and ask for help. Don’t be embarrassed to ask the teacher for help!  
  • Mantras can help. When you get frustrated, repeat a positive mantra to yourself, “I can do this” or “I will get through this.” Having a positive mindset will build perseverance and build your confidence.
  1. Time Management Goals: Creating a time management plan will help in many areas of school.  
  • Use a calendar at home and write down all important school tests, projects and other due dates. Include your extra curricular sports and activities on this calendar. It is important to see ALL of your obligations.  
  • Write down the estimated and actual time it takes you to do a homework assignment or task. Keep a log of the amount of time it takes you to do your work. This time management record keeping encourages students to plan ahead and think realistically about efficient time management.
  • Use a timer when doing homework. Set it for about 30 minutes. Work for 30 minutes without stopping. Oftentimes, when we allocate a dedicated amount of uninterrupted time, our productivity soars. 
  1. Down Time Goals: Incorporate downtime everyday.  Down time is important for a student’s overall well-being. It allows students to take a “brain break” during the day. This down time will energize and give your child clarity to focus on his school work.  Incorporate this “down time” on the home calendar. This will give your child something to look forward to!

Setting goals together with your child will make the goals more meaningful and therefore more effective. Make sure to focus on areas that will be the most beneficial for your child. Personalize the goals, as not all goals will work for all your children. Find the goals that work best for them and keep to it. 

Will you set goals with your children this January? What are your academic goals for 2024?

Would you benefit from our study skills program this year? Our study skills program will help with goal setting, planning, time management and overall effective study skills. Contact our office for more information, 215-657-1981

 

The Digital SAT is Computer Adaptive: What You Need To Know

This Spring the SAT is going digital. You can check out more information here. One of the biggest assets to the change is the test is now much shorter. Only two hours and fourteen minutes compared to that paper and pencil test which would take more than 3 hours to complete. This is because the new digital SAT is computer adaptive. What does that mean for test takers? 

What does an “adaptive” test mean?

Basically an adaptive test changes its skill level and questions based on the answers you provide. There are two sections: Reading and Writing, and then Math. Each has two modules. Your answers in part one will determine which module 2 you will receive.  One is more challenging, the other is simpler. This is isolated to each subject area so how you do on reading will not affect your placement for the math portion. Also, You will be able to move around the module to preview, review, and double check questions. Once you finish module 1 the adaptive piece will group you into the appropriate module 2.

You may read online these two sections being called hard or easy module 2; however, College Board does not report which module 2 you tested into so there is no reason to stress on test day about which group you are in. It’s most important to do your best on each question!

Why should I work towards getting into harder module 2?

Getting into the harder module 2 depends on your personal goal score for the SAT. When you are grouped into either the harder or easier module 2. The College Board created a score “ceiling” which means if you test into the easier module 2 your score will range between 200-600.  Only students who test into the harder module 2 will be able to score above 600 in the subject area. 

Should I skip or Guess questions I am unsure about?

Short answer. Guess! There is no penalty for incorrect answers so guessing even during a computer adaptive test will help more than not answering at all. On average during the test a student has about 94 seconds to answer each question, which will feel much longer than the previous written tests, 60 seconds. Take your time and give your best to each question!

Follow our blog for more information on the new digital SAT!

Books That Will Strengthen Your Vocabulary Skills for the SAT

The new digital SAT coming Spring 2024 has some big changes. There is one thing students can count on while preparing for the Reading & Writing Section: Vocabulary. Yes there are some questions types that directly relate to vocabulary. In addition, high level words are going to be used while asking inferencing and comprehension questions. We have created a fun list of books that incorporate these more challenging words into their stories. One of the best ways to integrate new vocabulary!

Book Series Written to Build SAT Vocabulary:

Both of these series are adventure/mystery novels with gripping stories to keep you reading and learn new words along the way.

Ahead of Her Time: An SAT Vocabulary Novel (Vocabbett Novels) By Erica Abbett 

Tooth and Nail: A Novel Approach to the New SAT Paperback by Joseph Elliot (Series)

These titles some would call classic novels are recommended to help continue building vocabulary and grow your inferential thinking. With these, you can also incorporate watching some of their movies or free audiobooks as well. Adding this increased exposure to the text, vocabulary, and storytelling will only strengthen your ability to draw conclusions and make connections.

Fiction 

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane

The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Lord of the Flies by William Golding

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

Treasure Island by R.L. Stevenson

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Non-Fiction

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

This is Your Brain on Music: The Science of Human Obsession by Daniel J. Levitin

The Physics of Superheroes by James Kakalios

Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void by Mary Roach

Happy Reading! 

For more information on our Test Prep Programs, contact us at 215-657-1981.

What Books Will Keep My Struggling Reader Reading?

We understand the importance of keeping our students with reading challenges and students with dyslexia reading. Our team has put together a list of books designed for struggling readers and those with Dyslexia. These books include a compilation of high interest and low reading level books. These titles help students who read on a low level and have compelling plots that keep students interested and picking up books and reading!

Book Series written with Decodable Words for Dyslexic Readers

Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham- (Highly recommend, very engaging read)

The Mouse and the Motorcycle (Ralph Mouse Book 1) by Beverly Cleary (Graphic Novel version)

Kent’s Quest Series by Cigdem Knebel (These are specifically written for Dyslexic students)

The Falling Star Mystery: Tom and Ricky Mystery Series By Bob Wright 

High Interest Low Reading Level Books

For Nonfiction- High Noon Books

Diary of A Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney 

Lunch Lady series by Jarrett Krosoczka

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick 

El Deafo by Cece Bell

We hope you enjoy these books! Happy Reading! 

To learn more about our reading programs, contact our office today at 215-657-1981! 

Executive Functioning Skills & The Impact on Learning

Executive functioning refers to the mental processes that allow us to organize, initiate tasks, focus on tasks, and help us multi-task. Executive functioning skills directly impact our working memory and it allows us to have flexible thinking and juggle multiple tasks successfully.  

Executive functions skills develop in early childhood and throughout our mid-twenties. Not all individuals develop these skills and many struggle with developing them fully. Here are the signs of students that struggle with executive functioning skills: 

Have trouble initiating and completing tasks

Have difficulty prioritizing tasks 

Have difficulty remembering information 

Have difficulty when routines change or are altered 

Shifting from one task to another is a challenge

Organizing things is a challenge

Have difficulty keeping track of their things 

Managing time is difficult for them 

Lacking executive functioning skills can cause many issues with a student’s learning and can impede on their academic success. Working memory and flexible thinking are essential executive function skills that support students in becoming good readers.  They are also essential in learning math. Students who struggle with executive function skills often miss many mistakes they make and have difficulty monitoring their own work. If your student is struggling with executive functioning skills, there are many ways to support and strengthen these skills. 

One on one tutoring that is focused on executive functioning skills can target these specific skills and help improve a student’s ability to initiate and prioritize tasks.  That in turn will help improve working memory skills, organizing material and information, and helping with time management skills. Our executive functioning skills program is targeted to meet individual student’s needs and help them develop these skills so they can be successful in the classroom and in life. 

Contact us today to learn more about how our one-on-one tutoring can support your child. 

Tips on How to Respond to Report Card Grades

Report card season is fast approaching. This often brings a mix of emotions for students. Many students feel worry and fear.  For students that struggle academically, this can be a difficult time for them. As parents, the way we respond to report card grades can really impact our children in a positive or negative way. 

Here are some recommended tips on how to respond to report card grades.  

  • Create a conversation with your child that fosters trust and openness. Give your child the opportunity to share their feelings and insights on their grades. Listen to them and discuss openly a plan to help support them in areas that need improvement. 
  • Make a plan together. Receiving low grades can be emotionally difficult for a child. Make an effort not to yell at them. Instead ask questions. How do you feel about your grades? What do you think you can do to improve your grades? Work together to discuss strategies on how to make adjustments going forward. 
  • Set up a time to chat with the teacher. Reach out to your child’s teacher and set up time to discuss the areas that need improvement. If possible, allow your child to sit in on the meeting, it can be very helpful and you can establish a “team” effort towards improving their academic performance. 
  • Enlist the help of a tutor. Tutors can support your child in improving their grades, increasing their self esteem and improving their overall motivation. 

Reviewing your child’s report card in a supportive way will  have a long lasting positive impact on your child. Working together with your child and your child’s teacher is an excellent way toward helping your child improve their overall academic performance. 

Are you concerned about your child’s grades? Give us a call, one of our academic coordinators can help you! Call us at 215-657-1981. 

 

The SAT is Going Digital- What you Need to Know!

Standardized testing is going to look alot different this 2023-2024 school year. The SAT is going digital! The Digital SAT has some changes from the previous test. Be prepared and know the facts.

 

Important Dates

PSAT- First Digital Test Administration October 2023

Last Paper SAT Test December 2, 2023

First Digital SAT Test March 9, 2024

 

New To The Digital SAT

  • Section 1: Reading & Writing 
    • Module 1
    • Module 2
  • Section 2: Math
    • Module 1
    • Module 2

The new Digital SAT will feel much quicker taking only 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete. Previously the written SAT was 3+ hours long.

There are only two sections: Reading & Writing, and then Math.

Each of these two bigger sections are divided into smaller sections called modules. The new Digital SAT is a computer adaptive test. This means your accuracy in module 1 will determine the difficulty level of module 2. The question difficulty will be weighted in your score while before in the written test all questions counted equally.

The Digital SAT has also done away with long multiple page passages in the reading section. Now the reading section consists of short paragraphs with only 1 or 2 questions per passage. The next significant change is the ability to use a calculator in all sections of the math exam.

Follow our blog for more information on the Digital SAT!

Reduce Stress for Students with Our 4 Tips

Students are experiencing stress more than ever these days. Whether it’s the pressure of academic, sports or social media, our students are feeling it from many angles. As parents and educators, we need to do as much as we can to support our students and to minimize their stress levels. 

We have put together tips that can be implemented in your homes to support your overly stressed children. Our hope is that our helpful tips will help minimize the stress that our kids are feeling and increase their motivation, productivity and overall joy. 

Stress Reducing Tips for Students: 

Maintain a Realistic Schedule:

Creating and maintaining a routine schedule may seem simple. Research shows that having a structured schedule is correlated with an increase in academic and social success. As much as you can, try to  maintain a schedule that works for your child. This routine will give them comfort and stability which allows them to have a sense of ease in their world. 

Exercise Daily: 

We all know exercise has positive effects on our body, but did you know that it also has a positive impact on your brain? Exercise is the best defense against emotional and mental stress and studies have shown that it has boosted performance in academics. It also improves alertness, attention and motivation. It is a natural way to ward off any negative effects of stress. Daily movement is highly recommended. Whether exercise is done through organized sports, daily walks, yoga or having a catch outdoors, be sure to incorporate daily exercise in your child’s life.

Encourage a Growth Mindset:

According to Dr. Dweck from Stanford University, a growth mindset occurs when we believe our intelligence and abilities can be improved with effort and the right strategies.  One with a growth mindset has a willingness to confront challenges, has a passion for learning and sees failure as an opportunity for growth. Creating a growth mindset culture in our homes will allow our children to be more resilient, positive and be able to handle setbacks more effectively. Fostering a growth mindset in the home should be something that is promoted as a family and done on a daily basis.

Model Effective Stress Management Techniques at Home:  

Children model parent’s behavior. As parents, we need to practice healthy stress management techniques. Parents who handle stress in a negative way, risk passing those behaviors onto their children.  Utilize healthy stress coping strategies such as exercise, meditation, eating well and creating a healthy environment at home. Fostering healthy stress management habits at home will create happier homes and positive habits. 

 

Many of our students are overly stressed. As parents and educators, we should focus on lessening the burden they may be experiencing.  Minimizing your child’s stress will increase productivity, alertness and motivation. The above tips are ways to support your child during stressful times. 

Do you have effective ways for children to cope with stress? Share your ideas with us. 

 

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