How to Be A Tuition Teacher Part 3 - Your First Lesson

Yes, I know I took really long to do up this series, but at least it's progessing!

Your First lesson

Great. You've done the fieldwork, you've done the calling, and you've landed your first student! *Claps in joy*

Now what the heck do you do with him??

[note: obviously you may get female students but for convenience I'll just use the male pronouns]

There are several things you want to do during the first lesson. One is obvious to get to know the student. Some basic information you can ask include school, what kind of class he is in, etc. [stay away from personal information like friends, hobbies etc... start off professionally]

You may be starting with him in the middle of the school year, so you have to update yourself on several things about him. Ask about his performance in school. For example, you can ask,

1. What has his grades in school been like?
2. What were his grades for his last exam/test/CA/SA?
3. Has he had tuition before?
4. What books does he have? study guides? Assessments? Past year papers?

You can easily talk to the motherfatherguardian on the first day for all this information. Chances are the parents will be more than happy to talk about it. [hey at least you're showing an interest...] Most parents I've met were more than happy to rail off at how bad their children are in school, how lazy they are, how much time they spend on CCAs, etc etc etc...... just try to head them off when u can...

After a while the parent might leave you alone with the kid. And now the two of you are standing/sitting there staring awkwardly at each other. What now?

Usually I like to make them do some kind of test on the first lesson. I do this so I gauge for myself what the kid's abilities are like. While he is doing his math test, you can observe several things, like what kind of questions is he having problems with, what seems to be the problem, is there a particular topic he's having trouble with, etc etc... Catch whatever kind of info u can, because you will be able to use this in future lessons.

Of course, some may make it easy for you, like one sec sch one I had who looked at the very first question and declared, "I don't think I can do the rest of this." Then you know you don't have to narrow it down to one topic any longer.

If the child has no assessment books yet, you can get him to do something from the textbook, while you make a mental note to buy the books. I prefer most Longman books myself, if you need a headstart. Remember to keep receipts and charge parents for any materials you buy. After all, the book belongs to the kid after that.

Ok this should be more than enough info to get anyone started. Have fun earning your first month! :p