STEAM / Computer Science Tutoring

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What is STEAM / Computer Science Tutoring?

STEAM = “Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math”

Computer Science Tutoring is a fun, engaging, and interactive way for students to learn about circuits, and how to code.

This, relatively, new area of exploration is critical for the tech-savvy generation. With Computer Science Tutoring, students and I dive into exactly how a computer “thinks.”

It’s the wave of the future! Nowadays, one kid is better with technology than 25 adults, combined. In this day and age, kids are growing up with technology – and it’s no exaggeration that the majority of kids have technology in their hands before they can even walk!


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Beyond the Technology

Computer Science Tutoring is more than just about computers, but rather, a logical way of thinking. Computational Thinking (which is really what these tutoring sessions are about, but it’s more commonly referred to as, simply, “Computer Science”) teaches students how to break down overwhelming tasks into smaller, manageable parts and how to think about each problem logically.

Students will play games and solve challenging puzzles in order to train their brains to think more analytically, and how to use deductive reasoning to solve problems.

This type of thinking will help students in ALL of their subjects in school! It’s the kind of problem solving that is key in mathematics; studies have shown that improving ones reasoning skills also improves ones mathematical reasoning and application.

Computational Thinking (aka “Computer Science”) Tutoring is also very flexible and tailored to exactly what the student needs at any given time.

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The Curriculum (in a nutshell):

  • Binary code – what it means and how a computer uses it
  • Pixels – how a computer shows graphics
  • Hex Colors
  • GIFs – what is a GIF & how to create your own
  • Circuits – Vocabulary and background knowledge
  • Circuits – Making your own creations, via LittleBits (see below)
  • Block programming – students will make art and their very own video games!
  • Website Design – students will create their own website

But, of course, the curriculum will be based completely on the individual student. If a student needs extra help with a topic, or perhaps just really loves inventing/creating, then classes will be tailored to the student’s needs/wants.

 

Tutoring may include any of the following (based on student’s needs):

  • Checkpoints and goals
  • Educational Games
  • Online activities
  • Worksheets
  • Programming video games
  • Art work (using computer code)
  • Circuits
  • Creating unique inventions
  • and much more! (I’ll go into more details about the specifics soon)..

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Little Bits

This is the kit we’ll be using

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Code.org


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Scratch

Here’s an example of a video game I made with my students last year. The character is me, with my snowboard boots on. Click on me to start and avoid the snow trees and all moving obstacles!

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Kids Love It!

Because kids are naturally adept with technology and video games (or art), they naturally love Computer Science Tutoring! Instead of the two of us sitting at the kitchen table and just talking and working on homework, Computer Science Tutoring enables students to think in a whole new way – a way that can translate into their other school work as well as their everyday lives.

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Rates [per hour]

Elementary School Math – $40

Middle School Levels of Math – $40-$45
Math 6, Math 7, Math 8, etc.

High School Math Courses – $45-$55
Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, etc.

SAT or GED Prep (Math) – $55

College Math Courses – $60-$75
College Algebra, College Geometry, Linear Algebra, Calc1 – Calc4, etc.

Course names differ from state to state, so if you don’t see your math class listed, don’t worry – I tutor it, but it’s just called something else :o)

Rates are based on math LEVEL, not student’s grade.  For example, if you are in grade 8 but are taking an Algebra class, this is a HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL class, even though the student might be in middle school….

Discounts on Rates

Book Multiple Sessions at Once

If you’re serious about getting the proper assistance, then booking multiple sessions at once is the best route to take.  Why?

(1) From an educational standpoint, it’s the best approach to understanding the material.  Regular practice (at least once per week, with a few days rest in between to let your brain absorb new concepts) is the best way to learn.

(2) Looking at it from a money point-of-view, buying things in bulk is always the best way to save money.  The more you buy, the more you save per session (assuming that you take advantage of every session).

So, basically, instead of flying by the seat of your pants and scheduling new sessions week-by-week, buying in bulk will be less chaotic for scheduling as well as saving you money in the long run.

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Example:

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Multi-Session + Bring a Friend Deal!

If you have a few friends in your class that also need help, then you’re in luck! Bring a friend [or a few friends] and get a cheaper price!

Why: Instead of me tutoring the same thing 5 times, I can help 5 students at once! Also, being in a small group is sometimes more comfortable for students and easier to learn and help each other [with the proper supervision and facilitation of engaging questions].

You, and every friend you bring will get a discount!  The more friends you bring, the bigger the discount for everyone!

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Example:

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How Does Payment work?

Payments can be done in any of the following ways:

  • Cash
  • Check (made out to Lindsay Summers)
  • PayPal (plus a 3% service charge)
  • Venmo

If you’re not familiar with PayPal or Venmo, it is completely secure and trusted among billions of people.  I will never see your credit card information or any other confidential information.

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How Do I Get Started?

Send me an email (summers.math@gmail.com) with any questions or concerns. The more information you provide, the better I can answer your questions and assist your student. Some key points might be:

  • Which your student currently in
  • Does your student currently enrolled in a Computer Science class at school?
    • If so, then is it ok if I email the teacher directly? (to find out what he/she would like me to focus on, homework policy and participation, performance on assessments, etc).
  • What are some interests? (Art, video games, hands-on creating, etc.)
  • What are some weaknesses in school (organization, being able to explain thoughts, completing homework in other subjects, etc.)

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I Need More Information!

For more information about me, what I do, rates, etc. please feel free to email me at summers.math@gmail.com

Please CLICK HERE
to get a free tutoring quote!

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Miscellaneous Information (click to read)

I actually have my Master’s Degree in Secondary Mathematics Education. That’s right, I’m a math teacher (and have taught for about a decade now, holy cow), but I also really love Computer Science and helping students to think logically. Here are some more links about me and what I do:

Face-to-Face Tutoring

Learn a little bit more about me and what I used to do before Smart Tutoring.

Testimonials

Read what students, parents, and teachers have to say about me and my tutoring skills