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Maria Shaiza A. (her, 29 Years)

Zamboanga, Philippines

English and Math Online Tutor from the Philippines.

Bio

I am a passionate online English tutor with experience in teaching students of all ages. I create engaging lessons in English and test preparation, helping learners improve their r... Read more

Teaching methodology

I use a personalized and goal-oriented approach, creating lessons that fit each child's needs while keeping learning fun and engaging. I provide regular progress updates to parents... Read more

I teach at

  • Online

Teaching option

  • Private Lessons

Online Teaching Languages

  • English
  • ₱400

    Local Hourly rate
  • $8

    Online Hourly rate
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Intro Video

Educational Qualification

Bachelor's in Elementary Education

Bukidnon State University

  • Philippines
  • 2018

Learning Materials

PPT Slides

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Video Lessons

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Study Notes

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Questions for You

Q: What is your approach to teaching writing, and how do you help students develop their writing skills?

My Approach to Teaching Writing: My approach to teaching writing is step by step and supportive, focusing on both structure and creativity. I start by helping students build a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure. Once they are confident with the basics, I guide them in organizing their ideas into paragraphs and developing clear, logical flow in their writing. To help students improve, I use scaffolding techniques such as brainstorming, outlining, and guided writing exercises. I also provide constructive feedback that highlights their strengths and gently points out areas for growth. I encourage students to practice regularly through short writing tasks, journals, or creative prompts, so they can express themselves more freely while applying what they learn. Most importantly, I make writing lessons engaging and relevant by connecting them to the student’s interests, real life topics, or academic goals. This keeps them motivated and helps them see writing as a powerful tool for communication.

Q: How do you help students with grammar, spelling, and punctuation?

I use a mix of direct teaching, guided practice, and fun activities to help students improve in these areas. For grammar, I explain rules in simple terms and give examples they can apply in their own writing. For spelling, I use word lists, phonics, and spelling games to make practice engaging. For punctuation, I highlight its role in meaning and provide short editing tasks where students correct sentences. I also give immediate, constructive feedback so students can recognize their mistakes and learn the correct usage. Over time, I encourage them to self check and build confidence in writing independently.

Q: What is your approach to teaching reading, and how do you help students improve their reading comprehension skills?

I take a balanced approach that combines phonics, vocabulary building, and comprehension strategies. I start by helping students develop decoding skills so they can read words accurately. Then, I guide them to understand what they read through predicting, questioning, summarizing, and making connections to their own experiences. To improve comprehension, I use leveled texts, interactive read alouds, and guided discussions. I also encourage them to express their thoughts about the story and practice critical thinking. Most importantly, I make reading enjoyable so students stay motivated and develop a lifelong love for reading.

Q: How do you help students with literary analysis and critical thinking skills?

I guide students to go beyond surface-level reading by asking open ended questions and encouraging them to look for themes, symbols, character motivations, and the author’s purpose. I teach them how to support their ideas with evidence from the text and compare different perspectives. To build critical thinking, I use discussions, graphic organizers, and writing prompts that push them to analyze, interpret, and evaluate what they read. I also encourage them to connect literature to real-life situations, which helps deepen their understanding and make their analysis more meaningful.

Q: How do you help students with pronunciation and enunciation?

I focus on clear modeling, practice, and feedback. First, I demonstrate the correct sounds and word stress, then let students repeat and practice through drills, tongue twisters, and listening exercises. I also use visual aids like mouth positions and phonetic cues to guide them. To improve enunciation, I encourage students to slow down, speak clearly, and practice reading aloud. I give gentle corrections and positive reinforcement, helping them build confidence while gradually developing more natural and accurate speech.

Q: How do you help students with public speaking or presentation skills?

I create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable speaking in front of others. I start with small activities like reading aloud or short introductions, then gradually move to longer presentations. I teach them how to organize their ideas, use body language, make eye contact, and speak with confidence. To build their skills, I provide constructive feedback, model effective speaking techniques, and encourage practice through role-plays, group discussions, and class presentations. I also emphasize preparation and positive self-talk, so they learn to manage nervousness and deliver their message clearly.

Q: Can you explain complex English grammar rules in simpler terms for easier understanding?

I break down complex grammar rules into smaller, easy tounderstand parts, using clear examples instead of heavy technical terms. For example, instead of saying “present perfect tense is formed with have/has + past participle,” I’d say: “We use ‘have’ or ‘has’ plus the action word to talk about something that started in the past but is still true now. Like: ‘I have eaten lunch already.’” I also use visuals, comparisons, and real-life situations so students can connect the rule to how they actually use English. Practice and repetition are key, I give them plenty of examples and short exercises until the rule feels natural.

Q: How do you motivate students who struggle with the language?

I motivate students by creating a supportive and positive learning environment where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process. I give them small, achievable goals so they can experience success step by step, which builds their confidence. I also use engaging activities like games, role plays, or real life situations to make lessons fun and practical. Most importantly, I celebrate their progress no matter how small so they feel encouraged to keep going and not give up.

Q: Are you familiar with the English curriculum and course requirements at my school?

Answer: I may not be fully familiar with the specific curriculum and course requirements at your school yet, but I am very open and willing to learn them quickly. I have experience teaching different English levels and adapting lessons to match a school’s goals, so I am confident I can adjust to your program’s standards. Once I have access to your curriculum, I can align my teaching methods and materials to support both the school’s objectives and the students’ needs.

Q: How do you help students prepare for English exams and assignments?

I guide students by reviewing the exam format and requirements so they know what to expect. I provide practice exercises that target key skills reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and writing. For assignments, I break down the tasks into manageable steps, helping them plan, outline, and edit their work. I also teach test-taking strategies like time management, understanding instructions, and checking answers carefully. Most importantly, I build their confidence through regular practice, feedback, and encouragement, so they feel prepared and ready to succeed.

Q: How do you ensure that students are actively engaged during tutoring sessions?

I make lessons interactive by using activities such as games, discussions, and problem-solving tasks instead of just lectures. I also connect lessons to students’ real-life interests so they see the value of what they’re learning. To keep their attention, I use a variety of materials like visuals, videos, and online tools and encourage participation through questions and short tasks. I also give students opportunities to share their ideas and practice what they learn, so they feel involved rather than passive. By keeping lessons dynamic, supportive, and relevant, I ensure students stay motivated and engaged throughout the session.

Q: Can you help with test-taking strategies for English exams?

Yes, I help students prepare by teaching them effective test taking strategies. I guide them on how to manage their time, carefully read instructions, and identify key words in questions. I also encourage them to practice with sample tests, eliminate wrong choices in multiple-choice questions, and plan their answers before writing essays. Beyond strategies, I focus on building their confidence through consistent practice and feedback, so they can approach the exam calmly and effectively.

Q: Are you willing to provide additional practice problems or resources for independent study?

Yes, absolutely. I am always willing to provide additional practice problems, worksheets, or online resources that students can use for independent study. I believe that consistent practice outside of our sessions helps reinforce what they’ve learned and builds confidence. I also adjust the materials to match each student’s level and learning style, so the extra practice feels helpful and not overwhelming.

Q: Are you able to provide assistance with English language certification exams, such as TOEFL or IELTS?

Yes, I am able to provide assistance with English language certification exams such as TOEFL and IELTS. I focus on the four main skills reading, writing, listening, and speaking while also teaching test-taking strategies specific to each section. I provide practice materials, model answers, and feedback to help students improve their performance and gain confidence. My goal is to prepare them not only to pass the exam but also to use English effectively in real-life academic and professional settings.

Q: Can you provide guidance on choosing appropriate reading materials for improving English language skills?

Yes, I can definitely guide students in choosing appropriate reading materials to improve their English. I usually recommend starting with texts that match their current level, then gradually moving to more challenging ones. For beginners, simple stories, graded readers, and short articles are effective. For higher levels, I suggest newspapers, novels, or academic texts depending on their goals. I also encourage students to pick materials that interest them such as stories, news, or topics they enjoy because motivation makes reading practice more effective and enjoyable.

Q: How do you help students with business English skills, such as writing professional emails or conducting meetings in English?

I focus on practical, real world applications. For writing professional emails, I teach students how to use the right tone, structure, and formal expressions while avoiding common mistakes. I provide templates, sample emails, and guided writing exercises so they can practice effectively. For meetings, I use role plays and simulations to help them practice greetings, giving opinions, agreeing or disagreeing politely, and presenting ideas clearly. I also introduce useful vocabulary and phrases commonly used in business settings. My goal is to build both their confidence and professionalism when using English in the workplace.

Q: How do you help students with understanding and applying literary devices in English literature?

I introduce literary devices by first explaining them in simple terms with clear examples from texts students already know. For example, instead of just defining metaphor, I show them how it works in a line from a poem or story, then guide them to create their own examples. To help with application, I use activities like identifying devices in short passages, comparing how different authors use them, and discussing how they affect meaning or tone. I also encourage students to use literary devices in their own writing, so they can see how these tools make language richer and more expressive.

Q: How do you encourage students to pursue their own writing interests in English?

I encourage students by giving them freedom to choose topics that excite them whether it’s stories, poems, essays, or journal writing. I guide them in shaping their ideas while still practicing grammar, vocabulary, and structure. I also provide positive feedback that highlights their creativity and effort, not just correctness. By connecting writing tasks to their personal interests and goals, students feel more motivated and confident, which helps them develop both skill and passion for writing in English.

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