Veteran English teacher (B. Ed.) wants to share passion for learning and literature on Teams with students in middle or high school as well as post-secondary.

Learn more about Naazima

• When and why did you develop an interest in your chosen field?

  According to my mother, my first word was ‘why’. I believe this penchant to question everything is indicative of my inquisitive and agile mind. I need to know – and I like to share my knowledge, thoughts, ideas, and experiences with other people so that I can learn even more from them. My students have always been my best teachers. Nonetheless, I did not choose education; rather, it chose me, and I answered the call.

• What makes you passionate about your subject?

  Many students, perhaps most, contend with some aspect of English Language Arts: literature (especially Shakespeare), reading and writing, grammar, structure, essays, figurative language, etc. can be overwhelming. Helping a struggling student understand a concept that seems out of reach is a rush indeed! This is one reason why I am passionate about the reciprocity that is teaching and learning.
  Moreover, I am an ardent reader because reading not only lubricates the brain but also opens the mind’s doorways to imagination, creativity, critical thinking, self-reflection, self-evaluation, self-discipline, self-control, and self-improvement. Reading is the most inexpensive trip to anywhere, everywhere, and writing is the cheapest form of therapy. Reading and writing allow us the opportunity to explore not only the outer but also the inner world. I believe that good stories are foundational not for only self-understanding but also for understanding others. Sharing this belief with students – and watching them prove it – has been a privilege for thirty-seven years. . . and I still love it!

• What do you like about tutoring? What makes you a "Superprof"?

  As an in-class educator (English Language Arts, literature, writing, grammar, and communications), I have joyfully and successfully served my students not only at the junior and senior high levels but also those in post-secondary. Inasmuch as working with large groups allowed me to hone my skills, I preferred helping students one-on-one because we built a connection: They retained the lessons with superior proficiency, and I learned to be a better mentor. Indubitably, the experience was far more productive for both parties.
  The COVID lockdown provided the opportunity for me to master my skills as an online instructor, and I quickly realised how much I enjoy working with students on MS Teams; hence, I pursued prospects to tutor.
  Throughout my 37-year tenure, students, parents, supervisors, and administrators have praised my ability to build rapport and establish long-standing relationships. My passion for learning and sharing is obvious, and I encourage students to develop their voice in various ways so that they develop their critical thinking skills, build their confidence, and capitalize on their potential.
  I believe the testimonials from my students are noteworthy. Please use the link www.englishgrammartutor.ca/testimonials.html.
  I am a ‘super prof’ because I am confident in my skills to tutor students who need assistance with all test materials pertaining to the English language (literature, grammar, reading, writing, and communications) on standardized and/or admissions tests because (among other strategies and tools) I
  
  - learn how my students learn
  - teach the process of writing
  - inspire students to read
  - facilitate the desire to communicate clearly
  - provide comprehensive and continual feedback
  - encourage rewrites
  - monitor my students’ results and then follow up
  - help students from all levels achieve exemplary grades

• Do you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you? Please explain.

  In the dictionary, next to the definition for prepared, organised, and resourceful are photos of my parents. Though both imparted seminal lessons on different matters, and both were exemplars of generosity and kindness, my father laid the groundwork for my empathy, integrity, professionalism, self-respect, and thereby, respect for others. He was a courageous man who led by example and did not compromise his principals. I was born confident, and he never allowed me to dim my light. Though my father is no longer with us, he continues to inspire me to “do better today than I did yesterday”. This means improving myself in all the roles I play: daughter, wife, sister, friend, aunt, educator, and learner.

• What are your keys to success?

  Preparation, organisation, and resourcefulness are cornerstones, but I am capable of thinking quickly, improvising, and seeking assistance. More importantly, I am an engaged and empathetic listener.