Individualized Teaching
We take a mentoring approach when teaching, working closely with students to understand their personalities and ways of learning. Academic plans can range from advanced topics to coursework support. Our sessions are inspired by the independent study model of classic higher education: sophisticated, mature, and driven by dialogue.
Our Approach
Effective teaching starts from understanding the student— their perspective, mindset, personality, and what matters to them. By putting the student front and center, they are allowed a hand in their own learning, essentially co-directing their development. Teachers operate as mentors; curriculum is used as a way of understanding more about the world and themselves (read more here); and teaching plans are continually adjusted with student insight and feedback.
“We teach over tutor. Our students study instead of survive.”
Subjects We Teach:
English
Mathematics
Natural Sciences
Humanities/Social Sciences
History
Enrichment/Gifted Students
Advanced Placement (AP) Coursework
Standardized Exam Preparation (SAT, SSAT, ISEE)
FAQ
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We do not enroll based on grade or age. We instead assess a student’s willingness, capability, and fit. While most of our students are in middle school and high school, we do not have grade or age limitations.
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We instruct in a straightforward, adaptable, comprehensive and efficient manner. We aim to present material in the truest way possible. This means we do not dilute content. Instead, we provide enriching cultural and historical context; guide students in a way that allows them to meaningfully connect with the material; and lead students to see a subject matter's historical and current relevance. We consistently strive for depth and meaning in our pedagogy.
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The primary difference between teaching and tutoring is that the latter focuses on reviewing material a student has already attempted to learn whereas the former focuses on first-time instruction. We always aim to teach material ourselves. This allows a student to learn one-on-one and at their pace, while having a say in the learning process by asking questions in realtime. However, when a student needs coursework support, we will provide the necessary tutoring until we can begin or resume instruction. For students starting with us before their courses begin, they almost never need any tutoring.
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There are two main components/benefits to this answer: the first is general academic aptitude. Preparing for the SAT can be a useful academic tool. In studying the College Board’s signature exam, students become more prepared for college. The second is college admissions strategy: though the SAT has significantly decreased in weight regarding college admissions decisions, it is still a part of a student’s application. Any metric or data point that one can provide is beneficial.