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How can I help an unmotivated student?

Sean Alexander, MS
Academic Tutor
Sean Alexander is an Academic Tutor specializing in teaching mathematics and physics. Sean is the Owner of Alexander Tutoring, an academic tutoring business that provides personalized studying sessions focused on mathematics and physics. With over 15 years of experience, Sean has worked as a physics and math instructor and tutor for Stanford University, San Francisco State University, and Stanbridge Academy. He holds a BS in Physics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and an MS in Theoretical Physics from San Francisco State University.

Sean Alexander, MS

Academic Tutor

Expert Answer

Try to wrap what the student likes into all of their subjects. Aside from their classes, what do they love? Take that answer and try to see how their classes are relevant to that. For example, let's say they love history but don't like math. In terms of history, ask them where they think humans would be if they never figured out math? Relate the subject to what they are passionate about.

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Question

How do you become a physics teacher?

Sean Alexander, MS
Academic Tutor
Sean Alexander is an Academic Tutor specializing in teaching mathematics and physics. Sean is the Owner of Alexander Tutoring, an academic tutoring business that provides personalized studying sessions focused on mathematics and physics. With over 15 years of experience, Sean has worked as a physics and math instructor and tutor for Stanford University, San Francisco State University, and Stanbridge Academy. He holds a BS in Physics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and an MS in Theoretical Physics from San Francisco State University.

Sean Alexander, MS

Academic Tutor

Expert Answer

I don’t think you can teach physics without having at least a Bachelor's degree in the subject. It is an extremely challenging subject and believe it or not even going back to high school physics, it's still hard. When learning how to teach physics, see how you can get students excited about the subject and avoid being dry. Physics is the natural language of the universe. Try to show students how it governs things that they see in their day to day life to make it interesting for them.

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Question

How do I teach someone older than me without it being awkward?

Community Answer

You are a teacher. It doesn't matter whether they are older, younger or of any age. Just take the fact that you are the teacher and they are the students, nothing more. You know something they need to know, so give it to them. Try explaining things in the same way as you would to your parents or grandparent, don't get overpowered and stay calm and focused.

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Question

How do you make it fun for students?

Community Answer

Try to make whatever you're teaching interesting. Make them laugh, ask questions about them and engage them in the conversation.

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Question

Is it important to sow the seeds of doubt in students' heads?

Kim G

Top Answerer

If by sowing seeds of doubt you mean should they be encouraged to ask questions about what they have learned, and keep an open mind about others' views, then they should definitely be encouraged. What they should not doubt is the validity of their learning and values.

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Question

My part-time job involves sitting beside 4-6 year olds as they do reading and math problems. However, some children find it difficult to focus, how do I help them focus?

Kammyisawesome

Community Answer

Redirect them when you notice their attention waiver, say: "What is the next question?" or "How is your work going?". If you have control of it, try to make the questions fun and about what the class likes. For example, if the class likes Harry Potter, then make the questions Harry Potter themed. Here are some example questions: 1. If Harry scored two goals in Quidditch and Ron scored 5, how many goals were there all together? 2. Hermione has 5 books then she gets 3 more out from the library, how many books does she have now?

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How do I teach a 3-year-old, when they don't listen to me?

EllieLu8

Community Answer

3-year-olds can be tough; be gentle and patient. Try to make learning a game for them, or hook them up with a school counselor or a therapist. Make sure they're getting enough sleep and rest; they may be restless at night and tired during the day.

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