If you easily succeeded in your math class, but, this term you’re struggling with your pre-algebra course, with the more than challenging homework, you are in need of a good math tutor.
- This especially applies when you just can’t connect what your teacher said in class, to what he or she gave you for homework.
The best of math tutors fully understand that good math skills start with a solid math foundation and a focussed mathematical perspective.
- With a one on one math tutor, it allows you to concentrate on personal challenges.
Some students have to revisit elemental math skills, as in fractions, decimals, or percentages.
- Whatever a student’s needs are, an expert in math tutoring can pinpoint them and smooth out any obstacles.
A Personal Intuitive Connection
One of the first things to look for in a good math tutor is somehow the tutor feels right and “clicks” with you.
- Try to find a tutor with the right type of personality which complements you.
As you will be spending perhaps quite a lot of time together in the near future, working well and feeling comfortable together is a great start.
Educational Background
The most effective math tutor will need a full understanding of all material which will be covered and this is where an educational background becomes important.
- For any elementary math students, a tutor who possesses a high school diploma will be fine.
- For junior high or high school students, a math tutor should carry at least an undergraduate degree, and preferably in math, science, technology or engineering.
- Any candidates who hold a mathematics teaching credential or master’s degree in mathematics education are more than ideal.
Teaching Experience
The best math tutors must be able to project ideas to help maximise conceptual understanding of all material. This includes the use of auditory, visual, and tactile types of engagement.
- Which method will be used is determined by the personal learning style of the student.
Does a Small Group or a One on One Lesson Suit You Better?
An additional and important feature of tutoring to consider is the ratio of teacher to student. People do differ and some students work better in small groups where they can work as a team to discuss and work out any challenging math problems. Whereas others prefer one to one math instruction which helps to minimise any distractions.
Time Frame Matters
From the beginning, you should make sure that a time frame is established.
- Will the tutor be readily available for the duration of the current school year?
- And don’t wait until the very week before finals to try and find a good math tutor!
You will need to feel challenged and not be frustrated, so you can then continue to succeed with more complicated math projects.
Remember, that the sooner you receive skilled math support, the faster you will be on that road to confidence and success in math!
