1^st lesson free

Andrew

Rate $44
Response 1h

$44/hr

1^st lesson free

Philosophy

EdD Candidate with Philosophy Master's Teaching Critical Thinking Through Contemporary Literature, Writing Excellence, and Personalized Academic Mentoring

Philosophy

Lesson location

- online

About Andrew

As a high school English teacher and doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership, I combine rigorous academic training in philosophy with hands-on classroom experience to help students become confident, critical thinkers. My Master's in Philosophy from San Jose State University provides me with deep expertise in logical reasoning, argumentation, and textual analysis—skills I translate into practical strategies for analyzing literature and constructing compelling essays. I'm passionate about equity in education, serving as an NCTE "This Story Matters" Teacher Corps member and conducting dissertation research on AI and educational inequities. This commitment means I create inclusive learning environments where all students' voices and perspectives are valued and strengthened. What energizes me most is watching students make breakthroughs—whether finally understanding a complex text, crafting a powerful thesis statement, or discovering their own analytical voice. I bring the same mentorship approach that helped me coordinate international programs and guide students to college success. Beyond teaching content, I help students develop metacognitive skills, college readiness, and the intellectual confidence to tackle challenging material independently. My goal is not just to improve grades, but to cultivate lifelong learners who think critically about the world around them.

About the lesson

My Teaching Approach

As an educator with a Master's in Philosophy and doctoral research in educational equity, I believe in developing critical thinkers who can analyze complex texts, construct sophisticated arguments, and engage with ideas at a collegiate level. My approach centers on three pillars: rigorous intellectual engagement, personalized feedback, and empowering students to become independent learners.

Teaching Methods & Techniques

- Socratic Questioning: Drawing from my philosophy training, I use guided questions to help students discover insights independently and develop analytical depth
- Scaffolded Learning: I break down complex skills into manageable steps, whether tackling dense philosophical texts or crafting research papers
- Contemporary & Culturally Relevant Materials: I select texts and topics that challenge students intellectually while connecting to real-world issues and diverse perspectives
- Growth-Focused Feedback: I provide constructive, specific feedback on writing and analysis that identifies patterns and clear paths for improvement
- EdTech Integration: I leverage digital tools for collaborative work, research skills, and tracking progress across multiple assignments

A Typical Lesson Plan

Phase 1: Connection (10 min) - We discuss the topic's relevance and activate critical thinking through discussion of current scholarship or real-world applications

Phase 2: Skill Development (25 min) - I model advanced skills (close reading, rhetorical analysis, argumentation structure, thesis development), then we practice together with guided support

Phase 3: Independent Practice (20 min) - Students apply the skill with my real-time feedback and coaching, whether analyzing texts, drafting essays, or refining arguments

Phase 4: Reflection & Goal-Setting (5 min)- We review what was learned and set specific goals for the next session or upcoming assignments

Sessions are highly adaptable—high school students preparing for AP exams receive different support than college students working on research papers, though both benefit from rigorous analytical training.

What Sets Me Apart

- Interdisciplinary Expertise: My philosophy background brings analytical rigor, logical reasoning, and critical thinking frameworks that elevate English and humanities work to collegiate standards
- College-Level Experience: As a former Teaching Associate at San Jose State University, I understand the expectations and rigor of college-level work and can prepare high school students accordingly
- Equity-Focused Practice: As an NCTE "This Story Matters" Teacher Corps member and researcher on educational equity, I'm committed to anti-bias teaching that validates diverse perspectives and voices
- Real-World Connections: I've coordinated international programs (The Economist's Topical Talks) that connect students to global issues and contemporary discourse
- Holistic Mentorship: Beyond academics, I advise on college transitions, career planning, and intellectual development—preparing students for long-term success
- Continuous Learning: As a doctoral candidate researching AI and education equity, I stay current on emerging trends and pedagogical innovations

Who My Lessons Are For

Grade Levels: High School (9-12) and College (Undergraduate)

Ideal Students:

High School Students:
- AP English Language & Composition or AP English Literature students
- Students preparing for college-level reading and writing
- Advanced learners seeking intellectual challenges beyond standard curriculum
- Those working on college application essays and personal statements
- Students preparing for SAT/ACT writing sections
- IB English students needing support with extended essays or literary analysis

College Students:
- Freshmen adjusting to college-level writing expectations
- Students in composition, rhetoric, or literature courses
- Those working on research papers, literary analysis, or critical essays
- Philosophy students needing support with dense texts and argumentative writing
- Students seeking to strengthen critical thinking and analytical skills
- Learners preparing graduate school applications or writing samples

Specific Areas:
- Advanced literary analysis and close reading
- Academic essay writing (argumentative, analytical, research papers)
- Philosophical texts and critical theory
- Thesis development and argumentation structure
- Research methodology and citation practices
- Rhetorical analysis and persuasive writing
- College application essays and personal statements
- Critical thinking across disciplines

Whether you're navigating the transition to college-level work, tackling challenging AP courses, or refining your analytical and writing skills at the undergraduate level, I create a rigorous yet supportive environment where intellectual growth thrives.

Rates

Rate

Pack prices

5h: $220
10h: $440

online

$44/h

free lessons

The first lesson with Andrew will allow you to get to know each other and discuss your needs for future lessons.

EdD Candidate with Philosophy Master's Teaching Critical Thinking Through Contemporary Literature, Writing Excellence, and Personalized Academic Mentoring

Lesson location

About Andrew

About the lesson

Rates

Rate

Pack prices

online

free lessons

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EdD Candidate with Philosophy Master's Teaching Critical Thinking Through Contemporary Literature, Writing Excellence, and Personalized Academic Mentoring

Lesson location

About Andrew

About the lesson

Rates

Rate

Pack prices

online

free lessons

Similar Philosophy tutors in San Jose

Evan

Grant

Alex Hartman

Tzara

Julien

Miles

Ella

Anuja

Tim

Mustapha

Gul e

Isla

Damian

Vito

Jonathan

Jennifer

Vivian

Tin

Robin

Rob

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