Elvan

Tutoring Experience

I have extensive experience teaching and tutoring biology across various international curricula, including IB, IGCSE, A-Level, and AP Biology. My journey has taken me to schools in Turkey and the United States, where I have taught in both classroom settings and as a private tutor. As a Biology Teacher and Head of the Science Department at Beştepe Schools, I developed a deep understanding of how to tailor my teaching approach to meet the diverse needs of students, ensuring they grasp complex concepts through engaging methods like hands-on experiments and real-world applications. My teaching philosophy has always centered on making biology not only accessible but also enjoyable, fostering curiosity and encouraging students to develop a deep appreciation for the subject.

In addition to my teaching roles, I have been an examiner for the International Baccalaureate Organisation, focusing on both Paper 2 and Internal Assessments for the Environmental Systems and Societies course. This experience has given me a unique insight into what examiners are looking for, which I incorporate into my tutoring sessions to help students excel. My tutoring approach is highly personalized, utilizing innovative teaching techniques, interactive tools, and consistent progress tracking to ensure that each student can achieve their academic goals. Whether in a classroom setting or one-on-one, my focus remains on building students’ confidence, deepening their understanding, and making biology a subject they truly enjoy.

Tutoring Approach

My approach is centered around identifying each student's weaknesses and tailoring lessons to support those areas. I begin by assessing what topics need additional focus, and I structure the lessons accordingly. Using presentations that incorporate questions from past exam papers, I ensure the material is both relevant and challenging. I assign homework for revision and review answers at the start of each lesson, reinforcing key concepts. Additionally, I test students’ knowledge before every session and continuously check their background understanding, often offering hints to guide them through difficult topics. All presentations are sent to students after the lessons for their reference and further study.

To maintain engagement, I keep cameras on during online lessons, allowing me to monitor students closely. If I notice signs of fatigue or boredom, I’m quick to offer breaks to keep the learning environment balanced and productive. I also utilize various interfaces, including whiteboards, and stay connected with my iPad to make the learning experience more interactive and dynamic. This combination of structured support, active engagement, and personalized resources helps students stay motivated and focused throughout their learning journey.