Jacqueline Smoler
I am a highly qualified (M. Ed. BSc. Hons. Grad. Dip. Ed. Grad. Cert. Maths & Science Ed.), registered teacher with over 25 years experience teaching Science and Mathematics as well as senior Biology (including both SACE and IB) in a variety of school settings including both public and leading independent schools in South Australia. I have been officially certified to teach the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Biology through my completion of extensive professional development programs provided directly by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO). I was recently sought by two South Australian universities to share my expertise with second and third year undergraduate students in Primary Mathematics and Science (Years 3-7) education in the capacity of a casual sessional instructor.
I use pedagogical practices which are based on constructivist learning principles which emphasise the importance of engaging interest and establishing the prior knowledge of students before teaching, in order to ascertain any misconceptions in relation to the topic being studied. Following this, the student is allowed some time to explore the concepts through participating in a number of activities designed to help them further develop their understanding and even modify their current ideas. Through specific, targeted interventions and tutor explanations students reflect upon their ideas and develop a greater understanding of the concepts presented. I incorporate a wide range of multi modal representations to cater for diverse learning styles and further develop the understanding of my students such as;
- traditional white board ('talk and chalk')
- exploratory activities
- making models e.g. using 2 dimensional nets to construct 3 D geometric shapes
- use models e.g. wooden alphabet pieces for developing auditory and visual memory of letters in Dyslexic students
- written tests e.g spelling and mathematics,
- use of revision guides, books and past examination papers to practise examination style questions
- information communication technologies e.g. use of lap top computer to research information on Google, play educational games to enhance mathematical skills, participate in interactive learning objects (animations) to learn abstract concepts
- flashcards to learn times-tables
I have enabled many of my students to produce outstanding results and make enormous improvements in their studies through a combination of expertise, patience and a caring manner.
Experience and Expertise
I provide professional coaching in the following areas:
- Years 11-12 IBDP Biology (both Standard Level and Higher Level)
- Years 11-12 SACE Biology (Stage 1 and Stage 2)
- Years 5-10 Science (Australian National Curriculum and IB Program)
- Years 5-10 Mathematics (Australian National Curriculum and IB Program)
- Study and Organisational Skills for both school age and adult students
- Literacy Skills for clinically diagnosed Dyslexic students
I also specialise in working with students who lack motivation as well as those with specific learning difficulties such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
I have recently completed two intensive training programs with Dyslexic Solutions to assist in the identification of students with Dyslexia and the application of structured multi-sensory teaching methods to further develop their literacy skills.
Why 'On Track' Tuition?
On Track Tuition opened in 2012 and currently specialises in providing one-to-one and small group tuition for students. Private tuition and mentoring for students in Senior secondary Biology, as well as those with motivational and/or learning difficulties in primary and middle years Mathematics, Science and study skills are also provided.
Additionally, tertiary students enrolled in undergraduate teaching courses in Mathematics and Science education courses may benefit from sessions targeting a range of skills such as essay writing, assignment preparation and the preparation of resumes.
School holiday sessions can also be booked to help students brush up on their skills and gain confidence before the next school term. We also offer Year 12 SACE Biology Examination Revision Seminars for groups of up to four students to help them prepare for the end of year examination.
Successful Academic Results and Improved Confidence
I have helped many Senior Biology students throughout South Australia achieve excellent results in their final examinations. Many of my past students have exceeded their own expectations and have gone on to achieve success in a variety of biologically-related professions such as Medicine, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics and Neuroscience.
Success of course does not always have to mean a perfect score of ‘20’ for every child and undertaking tertiary studies in Science. For many children the goal might be simply to improve confidence in the preparation of a scientific assignment, develop a more motivated approach to their studies in Biology or pass an algebra test for the first time. Help is also on hand for the younger students negotiating their way through the newly developed Australian National Curriculum in the middle years in Mathematics and Science. Patience and dedication in this crucial time of schooling has seen many of my students show significant improvements in both their understanding of concepts and their problem solving skills. For example, one recent On Track Tuition student who started private tuition in Year 7 was found to be lacking in motivation and achieving only a ‘D’ average in Mathematics. He is currently achieving a ‘B’ in Year 8 Mathematics and according to his teacher is a well organized and highly motivated student!
An important component of being a successful and confident student is to develop strong study and organisational skills.
On Track Tuition provides help for students with their skills in:
- time management
- note-taking
- research
- essay writing
- presentation of laboratory reports
- examination techniques
At On Track Tuition I enjoy the challenge of mentoring young people and helping them work towards achieving their goals, no matter how large or small. I have found that as students develop in confidence academic progress will significantly improve.
Regular Communication and Involvement with Parents
I recognise the important role that parents play in their child’s progress at school and I regularly communicate openly with parents via phone, email and most importantly face to face, both before and after tuition sessions. It is important that parents are involved, so that they can encourage and support their child to work through the tuition experience. Psychological assessments, past assessment items and school reports are used to help plan and organise a pedagogical approach which provides a personalised program to accommodate each student’s individual needs. Advice is provided concerning study skills and recommended academic resources including study guides, textbooks and free websites to support students with their learning.
Happy, Caring, Supportive and Safe Learning Environment
I am an enthusiastic, patient, caring and supportive role model who genuinely enjoys working with students. I am a fully registered classroom teacher with accreditation in the following areas which are mandatory for all registered teachers in South Australia:
- Criminal Police Check - approved by the Department of Education and Children’s Services (DECS)
- First Aid
- Responding to Abuse and Neglect (Education and Care Update Training)
Convenient Tuition Service Location Near Adelaide CBD
On Track Tuition is conveniently located just a 5 minute drive from the CBD of Adelaide at 67 King William Road, Unley. This makes tuition in Adelaide easily accessible to many students from a large number of schools.