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Katie Marie C. (her, 41 Years)

Chicago, USA

Learn to speak English confidently from a native!

Bio

Hello, I’m Katie! I’m a native English speaker from the US, and I grew up not far from Chicago. I enjoy reading, traveling, and going for long walks. Before becoming an online teac... Read more

Teaching methodology

For children: I like to use interactive games, storytelling, role-playing, and positive reinforcement to help children practice speaking English freely.

For adults: I like to us... Read more

I teach at

  • Online

Teaching option

  • Group Class
  • Private Lessons

Online Teaching Languages

  • English
  • $20

    Local Hourly rate
  • $20

    Online Hourly rate
  • 2

    Classes

Discounted Rates

  • $80

    5 hours
  • $150

    10 hours
  • $200

    15 hours
4000 characters remaining
500 characters remaining

Educational Qualification

TEFL 160 hours and TEYL 40 hours certification

ACCREDITAT

  • United Kingdom
  • 2019

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 focuses on guiding students step by step so they feel confident expressing their ideas in English. I usually begin with structured activities such as sentence building and guided writing, then gradually move toward more independent writing tasks like short paragraphs, emails, or essays. I emphasize the writing process—brainstorming, organizing ideas, drafting, and revising—so students understand that good writing develops over time. To support their growth, I provide clear models, useful vocabulary, and sentence starters. In group classes I use peer feedback to help students recognize their strengths and identify areas for improvement. I like to take advantage of interactive tools such as shared documents, collaborative whiteboards, and digital materials. My goal is to make writing practical and relevant, connecting it to real-life situations so students can use English more naturally and effectively.

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

I like to kept these concepts simple, clear explanations and provide examples that students can relate to. I also use interactive activities—such as editing exercises, games, and sentence-building tasks—to make the practice more engaging. I encourage students to focus on expressing their ideas first, and then we go back together to polish grammar, spelling, and punctuation. I use tools like shared documents or annotation features to give real-time corrections and explanations. Over time, I guide students to notice patterns in their own mistakes so they can self-correct and become more independent writers. Most importantly, I give feedback in a supportive way—highlighting progress while pointing out areas to improve—so students stay motivated and confident while developing accuracy in English.

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

My approach to teaching reading is to combine phonics, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies so students can understand and enjoy what they read. I usually begin by activating background knowledge and pre-teaching key vocabulary to prepare students for the text. During reading, I guide them with strategies such as skimming for the main idea, scanning for details, predicting, and making inferences. To improve comprehension, I ask guiding questions, use visuals, and encourage students to summarize or retell what they’ve read in their own words. I also adapt texts to their level, gradually increasing difficulty so they build confidence step by step. In the online setting, I make use of interactive tools like digital storybooks, annotation features, and comprehension games to keep reading engaging and dynamic. My goal is not only to help students understand the words but also to think critically, connect reading to their own experiences, and develop a love of reading in English.

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

To help students develop literary analysis and critical thinking skills by teaching them to go beyond the surface of a text and ask questions about meaning, themes, and author’s purpose. I model how to analyze characters, setting, tone, and symbolism, and then guide students with scaffolded questions that move from basic to a more advances comprehension . To build critical thinking, I encourage students to compare texts, make connections to their own experiences, and support their opinions with evidence from the reading. In an online setting, I use discussion boards, breakout rooms, and collaborative activities like digital graphic organizers to help students organize and share their ideas. My goal is to help students see literature as more than just words on a page—it's a way to explore perspectives, challenge assumptions, and express their own interpretations with confidence.

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

I help students with pronunciation and enunciation by first identifying the specific sounds or patterns that are challenging for them, often influenced by their first language. I use modeling, repetition, and minimal pair practice to help them hear and produce the sounds more accurately. I also focus on stress, rhythm, and intonation so students sound more natural and confident when speaking. I like to make use of interactive tools like recordings and using the online dictionary . I also encourage students to record themselves and compare their pronunciation with native models, which helps them notice and correct errors. Most importantly, I provide consistent, supportive feedback and plenty of opportunities to practice in real communication so they improve gradually without feeling discouraged.

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

help students with presentation skills by teaching them how to organize their ideas clearly and use the right words to guide their audience. We practice speaking slowly, with clear pronunciation, and using body language or visuals to support their message. In our online classes together that student has to practice the prensentation . Then I give the student supportive feedback so they can feel more confident each time they present.

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

Yes, I explain complex English grammar rules in simple, clear steps. I use examples, visuals, and real-life situations so students can see how the rule works in practice. Instead of focusing only on rules, I show patterns and give plenty of practice with short sentences, then build up to more complex examples. This way, students understand not just the “rule,” but also how to use it naturally in conversation and writing.

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

I motivate students who struggle with the language by creating a positive and supportive environment where mistakes are seen as part of learning. I use encouragement, celebrate small progress, and set achievable goals so students can see their improvement. I also include fun, interactive activities—like games, role-play, or topics connected to their personal interests—so learning feels meaningful and enjoyable. Most importantly, I remind them that progress takes time and that every step forward is a success.

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

I may not be fully familiar with every school’s specific curriculum yet, but I always take time to review the course requirements and learning objectives carefully. I adapt my lessons to align with the curriculum while also addressing the individual needs of students. My goal is to make sure students not only meet academic expectations but also build practical language skills they can use with confidence.

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

I help students prepare for English exams and assignments by first identifying the format and requirements of the test or task. Then, I provide targeted practice on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, including sample questions, exercises, and timed practice. I also teach strategies for answering different types of questions, managing time, and checking work for accuracy. Throughout, I give feedback and guidance so students feel confident and ready on exam day.

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

I ensure students are actively engaged by making lessons interactive and relevant to their interests and goals. I use a mix of activities such as games, discussions, role-plays, quizzes, and collaborative tasks to keep them involved. I also ask questions frequently, encourage participation, and provide immediate, positive feedback so students stay motivated and confident throughout the session.

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

No, I am not currently familiar with specific test-taking strategies for English exams. I Specialize in teaching grammar and speaking skills.

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

Yes, I provide custom lesson plans for each of my students.

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

No, I am not currently trained to provide assistance with these types of exams. However, I specialize in teaching grammar and speaking skills.

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

Yes, I can provide guidance on choosing appropriate reading materials by considering the student’s language level, interests, and learning goals. I select texts that are challenging enough to build vocabulary and comprehension skills but not so difficult that they become frustrating. I also include a mix of genres—like stories, articles, and practical texts—so students can develop reading fluency, critical thinking, and real-life English skills.

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

I help students with business English by teaching practical language skills for real workplace situations. For writing professional emails, I focus on clear structure, appropriate tone, and useful phrases. For meetings, I practice vocabulary for presenting ideas, asking questions, agreeing or disagreeing politely, and responding appropriately. I also use role-plays and real-life scenarios so students can practice confidently and communicate effectively in English at work.

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

I help students understand and apply literary devices by first explaining each device in simple terms with clear examples from texts they are reading. We then practice identifying devices like similes, metaphors, imagery, or symbolism in short passages. After that, I guide students to use these devices in their own writing, helping them see how literary techniques enhance meaning and expression.

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

I encourage students to pursue their own writing interests by letting them choose topics that are meaningful or exciting to them. I provide guidance on organizing ideas, expanding vocabulary, and improving grammar, but I make sure they have the freedom to express their thoughts. I also celebrate their creativity and progress, which helps build confidence and motivation to keep writing.

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