How to Choose the Right Private Math Tutor
It is safe to say that Mathematics is the most challenging subject encountered by students. The subject is challenging for most students, and there is no shame in admitting that. Math revolves around complex concepts with a set of rules to follow to solve problems and equations.
Now, along with Science, Math can be a daunting subject to take. In Singapore, Math is a compulsory subject that’s required from primary school. The Math Curriculum in Singapore has also increased in challenge over the years, making the subject much more complex for students.
In a competitive world, increasing the level of difficulty in Maths and Science is understandable. After all, mastery in these subjects is a way to get ahead in the future, too. However, it also holds the possibility of adding stress to students year by year.
Mathematics isn’t just about adding or subtracting numbers. Math in Singapore goes beyond that – aiming to teach problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and reasoning skills. It’s also emphasized that students will not only use Math when it relates to their chosen field, but also in everyday life. However, because of these increased demands, students may have a hard time coping with the expectations to fully understand concepts and formulas at the same pace as other students. This is when private home tutors come in.
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Why should parents engage in a Math home tutor?
Math is undoubtedly a tough subject. Even parents have trouble teaching their children Math. If the student is not naturally gifted in Math, there may be a struggle for them one way or another with the subject. That said, parents only want the best for their children and don’t want their children to fall behind their classmates.
Engaging a private home tutor who specializes in Math may help elevate this problem. Home tuition, after all, is there to help students with difficulties to learn the lessons or catch up to their classmates at home. Home tutoring boasts personalized lessons for every student.
When students have a particular struggle with Math, home tutors can concentrate more on the subject and which part students have difficulty with. This way, tuition sessions adapt to the needs and learning goals of the student. This also includes learning styles and will be conducted at a pace that best fits the student.
The home tutor can also provide feedback and develop his/her teaching styles according to the student’s needs. For example, they will concentrate teaching more on concepts that the student finds more difficult than those the student has already mastered.
The Singaporean educational system is cutthroat. It’s a known fact that many students and parents aim for educational excellence. But subjects such as Math might prove to be a hindrance to this goal. These are some reasons why parents should consider engaging in a private Math home tutor:
1. Helps build confidence
Students who underperform in Math may develop more fear of the subject whenever they feel left behind and struggle behind their classmates. When this happens, they will be terrified of answering exams in this subject and may get bad grades. This cycle is never-ending and will only take a negative toll on the students.
By engaging in a private Math tutor, students will be able to talk and explain their doubts and weaknesses regarding the subject. By talking to their home tutors, the tutors will, in turn, concentrate lessons more on those difficulties.
They will not only help students learn about the concepts of Math but also boost students’ confidence by helping them understand and solve Math problems. Through this gradual process, students may develop an interest in Math instead of fear. It will not only improve their grades, but it will also ease the anxiety of learning or discussing Math and will help them in the long run.
2. Helps pass the subject
As Math is a compulsory subject, students are required to pass it well. Math is a requirement for entry to higher levels of education, thus making passing it a top priority. There are many cases of students passing their other subjects but failing in Math. Because of that, they might not get to their desired school.
By hiring a home tutor, students can work on passing their exams and getting good grades. Home tutors have more resources and will help students practice for their exams, helping them perform better and get good grades.
3. For higher education
Math isn’t just a subject by itself. It has different branches and is used in other subjects such as Physics and Chemistry. It’s also the basis for all Engineering courses. By grasping a strong foundation in Math, students will also not have a hard time understanding other concepts in related subjects.
What to look out for in a private Math home tutor?
By this time, parents already understand the benefits their children will reap by engaging in a private home tutor. But the question now is what they should look out for in a private Math home tutor?
1. Expertise and knowledge in the subject
Like every other home tutor that specializes in a certain subject, parents should make sure that the home tutor they’ll be engaging with has proven expertise in the subject. This is also one of the reasons why parents aren’t always suitable to teach their children. An expert private home Math tutor will know how to convey concepts and skills to the student.
2. Past experience
This is both for the parents’ and the student’s sake. An experienced Math home tutor will have the knowledge and resources to change teaching styles that will best fit the student’s needs. This is also helpful in communicating with the student. As most children are embarrassed by admitting their weaknesses, it’s beneficial to have a home tutor who has experience in dealing with this.
3. Good character
This can include many things, from their passion for teaching the subject to their level of patience. Math isn’t an easy subject to teach. It will only be more difficult when teaching students who are struggling. A good Math home tutor should show patience in teaching Math, especially to a struggling student. They should be calm and give students ample time to solve problems. Explaining to the student using a calm voice will also eliminate the fear of being called out for their weakness.
4. Resourcefulness
Remember that students don’t all learn the same. When engaging a private home tutor, parents should look for a Math tutor who is both innovative and resourceful. Following the syllabus is one thing, but not all students will only learn from it. Home tutors have more freedom in using other techniques to help stimulate learning. Some home tutors have even turned their teaching into games to make the process more interesting for the student. This way also slowly eliminates the fear and anxiety over the subject.
Conclusion
Even though math can seem intimidating at times, a student’s academic path can be greatly impacted by the correct private home tutor. A competent tutor may turn math from a cause of anxiety into a subject of achievement and opportunity by offering individualized instruction, fostering confidence, and customizing teaching strategies to meet each child’s specific needs. Parents may be sure that their children will not only get better marks but also acquire the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities that will serve them well beyond the classroom by selecting a tutor with a high level of expertise, experience, patience, and resourcefulness.
Carelle
Carelle is a teacher who has been through the ups and downs of the teacher and learner life. She wishes for every learner to gain educational satisfaction that will help embody the people they want to be in the future.
