Building confidence in a subject is as important as learning to understand the material.This has to start with getting to know the student, what motivates them in a general sense but specifically with the subject at hand. I like to determine what the students learning aptitude is by asking some specific questions about the subject material. I start small and work up to the bigger questions based on the responses from the student. Prior to teaching I was a research chemist and I am able to shape lessons based on my previous experience. I always make the material relevant and compelling. I currently tutor students with an age range of 10-20. I work with younger students building maths skills and move into the main science (chemistry, biology, physics) but I also specialise in anatomy & physiology, biochemistry, environmental science and organic chemistry for more advanced students. I start with basics and build up into more complex interrelated ideas as we move through the material. At all times challenging the student with questions to think about what we are discussing about the material. I also help students understand how to design an experiment, and to understand why it is important and how to best use experimental data to discuss their ideas. For me, science is a passion but for some it is a necessity. I believe a firm grounding in the basic principles of science is important for our modern world particularly the ability to think critically. I focus on how each student can develop the tools to learn as efficiently as they can as I move through lessons. I discuss with students note taking, revision and test skills as well as time management. It is important for a student to know that their understanding and ultimate success with a subject isn’t based on rote memorisation of facts. Real learning is taking information acquired and applying it.