Learning math with a tutor: an overview of methods and features of the learning process

At school classes, the teacher teaches math to 25-30 students. This is always a general approach, averaged for all children. It is impossible to adapt the program individually for each child. The teacher physically does not have time to give enough time to all students. Therefore, parents often decide to hire a tutor for their child. He builds classes taking into account the character, knowledge and abilities of the child. Let's consider some ways of teaching and the peculiarities of the educational process.

Some methods of tutors in math

A few examples of math tutoring techniques:

• A technique built on associative-emotional memorization. This is one of the techniques of mnemonics. The student does not memorize formulas and rules, but memorizes them through associations.
• The teacher does not demonstrate problem solving for the students to repeat after him. He teaches the child to come to the solution on his own. He uses associations, visual pictures. A workbook with illustrations, fairy-tale characters, rebuses and presentations is used. The child performs the tasks and deduces the formula himself.
• Individual approach to students. Some of the children need to master the simplest basics of mathematics, and high school students to understand the complexities of algebra or geometry and higher mathematics. Some children need to be prepared for exams at school or for entry to University.
• Scientific methods of teaching math involve the use of various technologies in lessons. This is theory, training in analyzing information, solving formal-logical problems that develop the child's thinking. The impact on the senses is used - these are illustrations, riddles.
• Consistent teaching of mathematics. These can be various combinations of lessons. Usually they consist of the following stages: consolidation and verification of knowledge of previously studied material, familiarization with new material, consolidation of what has been learned by solving practical examples, homework.

Peculiarities of the teaching process

Some teaching techniques that are used by math tutors:

• Motivational methodology. This is teaching taking into account the individual abilities of the student. The teacher conducts classes so that the student has positive emotions. He avoids the statements that teachers in schools often say: “wrong”, “this is not the way to do it”. He speaks correctly: “you have the right idea, just try to do it this way”, “please think about what other options are available”, “what can be changed in your opinion”, etc. The method from simple to complex is used in the lessons.
• The methodology is from simple to complex. Classes are organized in such a way that the student first performs simple exercises, then moves on to complex ones. Starting with simple exercises, the pupil quickly achieves success. It is easier for him to take on the more difficult ones because he already has confidence in himself.
• The methodology of versatile control. The math tutor monitors how the student's skills and mastery of the subject are developing. He uses oral surveys, written exercises and tests, graphical tasks.
• The game methodology includes math puzzles. A game board or online games are used for this purpose. This helps the child to relax and arouses interest in math.
• Creative method. The student solves tasks where he/she has to think up their conditions. This helps him create mathematical algorithms and see cause-and-effect relationships.
• Instrumental methodology. In math classes, the tutor uses various tools to teach the child: computer programs, Internet sites, books, workbooks, classic textbooks and others.

Often, a professional math tutor uses many of these techniques at the same time. This allows to diversify the lessons and approach individually to each student according to their needs.

The peculiarities of a professional math tutor is that he has all the attention during the lesson is directed to one student. The teacher is well versed not only in his science, but also in the psychology of children. He knows how to create a friendly relaxed atmosphere, in which it will be easier for the child to remember complex knowledge in mathematics. He often praises the child for specific achievements and very tactfully guides him on how to improve his skills.