A dealer in a specific commodity. Often used in combination: an ironmonger.
A person promoting something undesirable or discreditable. Often used in combination: a scandalmonger; a warmonger.
I don't know if I'd call it discreditable, but for some people mathematics is surely undesirable. This is especially true for students who are struggling. Don't let math class get you down. You need the Mathmonger on your side!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What subjects do you tutor?
I primarily tutor high school math courses, but 8th grade and college often have a lot of overlap.
Can you help with test preparation?
Yes! I offer a three-pronged strategy to standardized test success:
Key 1: Perfect Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to prepare for a test is by taking practice tests under realistic conditions. Use the same calculator, the same time limits, the same #2 pencils, and NO DISTRACTIONS. Then, as the tutor, I can be 100% objective and focus exclusively on the problem areas. Key 2: Test Taking Strategies
Where should you start? When should you guess? What should you do if you're totally stumped? How can you make the most of your calculator's built in smarts? Key 3: Umbrella Strategy
No matter how bright you are, there's a good chance that there are some topics you just missed. Maybe you were sick that day. Maybe you were distracted. Maybe your teacher had to skip that section due to time constraints. That's why my final key is a top-down umbrella strategy. I systematically review every weapon you "should" have in your arsenal and look for holes.
What are your qualifications?
I have my degree in mathematics from Stockton College, I tutored in Stockton's Math Lab, I worked as a high school math teacher in North Arlington, I taught SAT preparation for the Princeton Review, and I'm really smart.
Will you come to my house?
Yes, I prefer to come to your house. That way, I don't have to clean.
How much does private tutoring cost?
$45 per hour
How can I pay for this?
I accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, eChecks, and PayPal through this website. I also accept cash, checks, and bartering.
You accept bartering???
Sure. Make an extra plate of dinner for me. Let me use your shore house this summer. Come scrub my toilet. Use your imagination.
Will you give me an hour free on a trial basis?
Sure.
What makes your approach unique?
Simplification. Most math teachers have an obnoxious tendency to be thorough. For some students, however, less is more. Too often, the really confusing stuff will only equate to a point or two on the test! I'm a realist. Cut the fat. What do you really need to know?
Repetition. It's tempting to make exercises more "interesting" by throwing in negative numbers or fractions or any number of other pitfalls. I resist that urge. Sometimes I will ask a student to do the EXACT SAME PROBLEM two or three times. Is that a waste of time? If I have to help him four times during his first attempt and now he can do the whole thing by himself, that is time well spent! Constant frustration is no good for you. A little taste of success can do a world of good.
Memorization. How often do math teachers preach that they want you to understand and not just memorize? That sounds great in theory, but I'm interested in results. If the theory is going over your head, but I can give you a simple five step process to memorize, guess which direction I'm going. Understanding will come in time.
My goal is to get you to pass and to have a solid foundation for next year. I'll work with your teacher. I'll help you with extra credit projects. I'll help you make flash cards. I'll help you use your calculator. I'll help you find meaningful, interactive online resources. I'll show your parents how to help. Crunching the numbers is only half the battle.
How do I sign up?
Call me at 973-896-0281. My name is Shawn. Or send me an email: mathmonger@yahoo.com
