John

Maths was my hobby at school. I still read it for fun. After leaving school I studied chemical physics. I have an interdisciplinary PhD in biological NMR and molecular structure. Easy to talk to about all sorts of stuff from car and jet engines to MRI scanners and PCR etc. I have played guitar in function bands for over 20 years. I like singing too. My French is fluent and I know some other languages such as Tagalog, German and basic Polish. Started on Hindi now.

Tutoring Experience

Have a wide knowledge of science from Physics to Life Sciences. Work in a University by day (for 13 years) teaching a range of maths workshops and science topics in laboratories. I have also taught Maths and Physics in Schools for 6 years and covered French classes for teacher absences. I have privately tutored maths and science for over 20 years and worked as a language assistant in a French school.

Tutoring Approach

I am not convinced by online tuition. I'll drive to your house instead for face to face tuition. However, I do encourage students to attempt questions, send answers to me by internet midweek. Then I'll send back my comments.

Often I divide up the lesson into parts:

1) My choice: Some topic that I think is important for the student to revise or learn.
2) Student's choice: Something the student wants to ask about. It may involve help with current schoolwork or homework. (but I won't do the homework for you!)
3) Something different: An open ended question or investigation.

I will show you where the formulae that you are expected to know and use, actually come from. I will try to make lessons as interesting and relevant as possible. By asking questions, I will help you to "think your way" step by step to finding a method. Most people learn much faster when they are interested.

I often make up questions relevant to hobbies and interests of students. A formula that is understood is much more useful than one that is just remembered. It is amazing how much of the Nat 5 maths syllabus is used in the design of a duck pond. A large part of the Physics course can be incorporate into the design of an elevator. There are some simple strategies to help with solving problems. I like to focus on this.