Randy B.
Private tutor in Oakland, CA
Education
BA English Literature, University of Minnesota Minor, American Studies, University of Minnesota MA Creative Writing, National University, California
Experience
I taught ESL (English as a Second Language) abroad for seven years, primarily in Asia, on a wide variety of subjects and themes, and became quick at assessing student needs and interests, stimulating lively conversation, and developed a detailed knowledge of grammar and cultural influences. I like to keep to schedules and text-based work, but also enjoy flexing my style to meet client needs. One of the best teaching tools I have is a portfolio of theme-based classes with multi-level readings, grammar exercises, social activities and group work, themed vocabulary, language charts, and bibliographies. While abroad, I helped to successfully matriculate graduate school level ESL students by raising reading levels three grades in three months, which was test-verified. I attribute their success to their hard work and placing trust in using "3rd Space" learning, where the usual hierarchy between student and teacher is leveled. I also implemented a new reading series and reading-to-writing methodology for students including process summarizing, writing from stories and documentary movies, film dialogue modeling, and end-of-term presentation of student inventions. Additionally, I tutored a wide age- and job-range of students on the mechanics of application and essay writing, research and grant writing, thesis composition in the arts and sciences, business conversation and writing, presentations, and negotiating skills for executives.
Availability
Weekdays after 1PM
Can Meet
Up to 30 minutes away for a flat fee
Hobbies
I'm an avid outdoors person and something of a naturalist and gardener. Mountain biking, soccer, and martial arts are ways I socialize and stay in shape. I have a strong fine arts and literary background, having been in AP (advanced placement) English and Arts programs in high school as well as winning my state's art award in high school. While in college earning my BA, I was brought into two different graduate school programs: English and American Studies. My easy-going nature but consistent work ethic produces results for students, and my wide-ranging cultural interests keep me up-to-date with how younger generations think, or at least allows me to converse and relate with them on subjects they know best. Because I taught abroad for many years, it has enabled me to become adept at finding out where parents are at in relation to their kids; how the wants and needs and practicalities of families intersect or miss the mark. This in turn helps me build and connect academic standards with how families go through the processes of education and employment realities.
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