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Mathematics We subscribe to the National Research Council's model for mathematical proficiency. That model consists of five multidimensional, interwoven, and interdependent strands: adaptive reasoning, strategic competence, conceptual understanding, productive disposition, and procedural fluency. The achievement of all five strands is necessary to be considered mathematically proficient in the twenty-first century.
With that in mind, we offer tutoring in elementary school mathematics, prealgebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, and calculus. We can also offer topic-specific tutoring; e.g., ratio and proportion, area and perimeter, fractions, decimals, statistics, etc. |
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Reading There are several things we know about proficient readers. Comprehension begins with successful initial reading instruction. Children who can read words accurately and rapidly have a good start toward comprehending what they read. Comprehenders have good oral language skills. Children who have frequent and good exposure to literacy experiences are more likely to succeed than those who do not receive similar exposure. Instruction based on an appropriate and well-articulated alignment between curriculum and assessment can improve performance in reading as well as in other areas.
We work on teaching, learning, and assessment of reading “simultaneously.” Our approach is a balanced instructional approach. We use a variety of assessment tools to determine the strengths and weaknesses of each reader: Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS), Woodcock-Johnson III Achievement Tests, and Discovering Minds developed assessments. |
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Discovering Minds Tutoring Services |
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Writing Writing, reading, speaking, and listening are intertwined in classroom activities. Students must read their own texts in the process of writing and revising. They must also anticipate and incorporate the reading of others as they make their texts readable by peers and teachers. Research indicates that teacher-student writing conferences appear to be the most valuable of several pedagogical approaches, including the teacher-led classroom exchanges over the course of the semester. Our sessions will include cycles of writing outlines and drafts, conferencing, reviewing, and rewriting. The student’s inputs and interpretations will be especially important in these sessions in order for the student to acquire the skills of an independent writer. |
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Young children’s writing must not interfere with the expression of their knowledge and ideas. Prior to instruction, we assess the child’s writing fluency which is related to many factors (e.g., muscular or motor control, response style, ability to sustain concentration, and reading or spelling skills). Based on that assessment and inputs from guardians, educators, and the child, we determine the most effective individualized instruction. |
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Copyright © 2005 Discovering Minds |
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Tutoring Services We offer tutoring services in several different subjects and formats. We cover the subjects of mathematics, reading, and writing for all ages. We offer tutoring at the individual level, as well as our small group tutoring sessions. Our small group tutoring subjects include Algebra, Middle School Math, Intermediate School Math, and Reading/Writing. During the summer, we offer classes for students at the elementary, intermediate, middle, and high school levels. Some of our class offerings include Algebra I, Fractions & Decimals, Elementary Math, and Communication Skills.
We also have Children’s Discovery Workshop during the summer for children ages 4-7. It focuses on activities that are both fun and educational. |