At A Team Tuition, we believe in celebrating the extraordinary work of our educators—not just for improving grades, but for the deep, lasting impact they make in students’ lives. This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight our APT of the Month, whose dedication to nurturing, mentoring, and inspiring students is nothing short of exceptional.

“Being named APT of the Month is an incredible honour,” they shared. “It reminds me how grateful I am to work for a company that values and supports its educators. This isn’t just recognition of my effort—it’s a celebration of the passion I pour into helping students grow.”

And grow they do. With a deep commitment to developing not just academic skills but confidence, motivation, and emotional resilience, Erin brings tutoring to life in a way that’s both impactful and personal.

💡 Beyond a Tutor—A True Mentor

For this standout tutor, mentoring is woven into every session. “I wasn’t always a strong student myself,” Erin explained. “But two incredible teachers changed my life. One nurtured my creativity; the other taught me how I learn best. Because of them, I strive to be that mentor for others.”

Many of their students face more than academic challenges—they deal with anxiety, low self-esteem, and the feeling that they don’t fit within the education system. With empathy and insight drawn from their own experiences as a neurodivergent learner, this APT meets students where they are and reminds them: “You’re not dumb—you’re brilliant. You just need the right tools.”

🎯 Creative Strategies That Stick

What truly sets this educator apart is their out-of-the-box approach to keeping students engaged and improving behaviour.

Take the “three lives” system, for instance—developed with a student who frequently interrupted sessions to ask how much time was left. Each time they asked, they’d lose a life. Three lives gone? A pre-agreed consequence like a break from iPad time would follow. “It helped them learn to self-regulate,” they explained, “and gave them ownership over their behaviour.”

There’s also the ever-popular “lucky dip” bag filled with incentives like “be the teacher for 5 minutes” or “extra drawing time”—small rewards that create big shifts in motivation.

These tailored strategies have helped countless students not only re-engage with their learning but take pride in their progress.

💬 One Student, One Transformation

One story stands out. “I’ve worked with a Year 6 student since mid-Year 5. She came to me with severe anxiety and low confidence after years of bullying, and a reading level far below standard. Before anything academic, we focused on building trust.”

Bit by bit, her confidence grew. She tackled new reading goals, found books she loved, and started checking books out from the library on her own. “Now, she’s not only reading fluently—she’s leading her own learning journey,” they said. “It’s transformations like these that remind me why I do what I do.”

👏 Living the INSPIRE Values

Of all A Team Tuition’s INSPIRE values, Nurture resonates most strongly. “When students feel safe and supported, they’re more open to learning. I don’t just work with students—I work with their families. Together, we create a shared path to progress.”

Session feedback is sent to parents consistently, and collaboration with their Personal Student Mentor (PSM) ensures no student’s journey is left to chance.

🧠 From Student to Scholar

This educator doesn’t just preach a love of learning—they live it. Having achieved significant personal academic success, their own journey helps them connect deeply with their students. “I make it a point to celebrate small wins with my students. Recognition builds confidence, and confidence fuels achievement.”

💬 Words of Wisdom

So, what advice would they give to other Academic Personal Trainers?

“Be yourself. Connection comes before content. Your students don’t need a perfect tutor—they need someone who gets them. The more you love what you do, the more your students will love learning with you.”

And what’s the passion that drives it all?

“Helping students fall in love with learning. Whether it’s a high score on Mathletics or a sticker from school, those moments—where pride shines through their smile—that’s what it’s all about.”

🎉 Congratulations to our APT of the Month! Your dedication, creativity, and heart make an extraordinary impact—and we’re so lucky to have you on the team.

The post Mentor Changing Lives appeared first on A Team Tuition.

I also come across students with minimal commitments who struggle to plan their day, often spending more time checking their Snapchat streaks than studying.

The difference between students who are busy and successful and those with too much free time and failing is effective time management.

No matter where you fall on the ‘busy’ spectrum, managing your time effectively is key to advancing in your studies, career, and extracurricular activities.

Whether you’re an overachiever, a procrastinator, or a perfectionist, you need to know your daily schedule inside out to make the most of your time! Here are a few handy tips and tricks I recommend to my students for planning their week to have effective time management:

Tip 1. Use a Diary 

It doesn’t matter what format it comes in-just use one!

Using a diary is one of the simplest ways to manage your time. How you use your diary will determine how effectively you manage your time. The most important thing is to make your diary work for you.

I believe you can’t go wrong if you write everything down in one place. Scattering reminders on different pieces of paper will lead to confusion, especially when you have lots of loose sheets flying around.

So, first things first, head to a shop and buy a notebook. Write everything down in there. If pen and paper aren’t your style, use technology to your advantage. Set reminders on your phone, share your Google calendar with colleagues and friends, or use popular organisational apps like Trello or Asana.

Think of pen and paper as your tools for building organisation. If they don’t work for you, it’s like trying to build a house with an axe. Find a hammer that suits you better.

Next step: personalise your method! Personalising a diary lets you be creative and reflect your personality on paper. If you need a motivation boost to start ticking off your daily tasks, add some inspirational quotes or a weekly goals page.

Ticking off accomplishments at the end of the week is a little reward for yourself. If those goals build towards bigger goals, you can see the path you need to take to achieve them.

A diary is a daily tool, so make it look appealing! If you’re using an online app like Trello, be creative with your boards. Set your background to an image of a place you wish to visit-it’ll motivate you to work harder!

Tip 2. Prioritise!

Prioritising your commitments is essential, especially if you tend to overcommit. Always know when something is due!

If you get an assignment due at the end of the term, note that due date in your diary or on Trello right away. Even mark it with a sticky note so you know you have an upcoming task.

A trick some students use is marking commitments with different colours based on their priority. Use red for high-priority items, yellow for medium-priority, and green for those due later. Work through the red items first, then yellow, and finally green.

Tip 3. Take regular study breaks

Regular breaks are crucial for peak academic performance. Your ability to process information diminishes the longer you study. So, the longer you study without breaks, the less productive you become.

The Pomodoro Technique is a recommended method. Spend 25 minutes on a task, then take a 5-minute break. After four 25-minute sessions, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes to recharge.

Alternatively, try the ‘power hour’ technique: study for an hour, then take an hour break.

Switching study modalities can also help. Alternate between reading, drawing diagrams, and watching videos to keep things fresh and aid knowledge retention.

These techniques prevent overlearning, where prolonged study sessions decrease your ability to recall information. Instead, stagger your learning for the best results and give your brain a chance to rest.

Tip 4. Say goodbye to procrastination

Procrastination is normal, but excessive procrastination is problematic. To minimise procrastination, eliminate distractions.

Social media is a big one. Close your Facebook tab and log out if you must. Put your phone on ‘do not disturb’. Mute group chats and turn your phone face down.

Notifications can distract you, causing you to lose focus and waste time refreshing your memory. This could add up to an hour of wasted time!

Sometimes procrastination stems from fear of failure. Students might put off assignments or avoid tasks because they’re unsure what to write or feel overwhelmed. This anxiety can lead to further avoidance.

Acknowledge what’s preventing you from completing work and plan a method to tackle it. Simply talking about why you’re procrastinating can help reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Tip 5. Schedule time for yourself

While staying busy is important, your mental health and wellbeing are paramount.

Make sure you schedule time for yourself. If you’re eating lunch at your desk while trying to finish work or consistently putting off self-care activities like going to the gym or attending social events, you need to make a change.

Decide what activities you want to do in your ‘me’ time. Be specific. Instead of just pencilling in ‘downtime’, identify how you want to spend that time. This will make you more likely to follow through.

Tip 6. Learn the word “no”

It’s okay to say no! Sometimes taking on too many commitments can overwhelm you and hinder your success. Feeling overwhelmed can make it hard to relax or cope with difficult situations.

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is common. You might feel pressured to join activities because your friends are doing them. But FOMO often stems from perceptions, not your true desires.

Tip 7. Get a good night’s sleep

Finally, ensure you get enough sleep to function effectively. Some students think cutting sleep will give them more time to work, but this is counterproductive.

Lack of sleep affects your cognitive skills, hormone regulation, and decision-making abilities. It can lead to ‘sleep debt’, which impacts your future sleep patterns.

The National Sleep Foundation suggests the following sleep ranges:

• School age children (6-13 years): 9-11 hours.
• Teenagers (14-17): 8-10 hours.
• Young Adults (18-25): 7-9 hours.
• Adults (26-64): 7-9 hours.

If you’re short on time, a power nap can give you a quick alertness boost. However, don’t rely on naps as a substitute for proper sleep.

The most important takeaway is to find a time management solution that works for you. Good time management is a skill developed over a lifetime, influenced by your personality, upbringing, and social circle. Reflecting on these factors will help you understand and improve your time management skills.

Click Here TO FIND A TUTOR WHO CAN HELP TEACH YOUR CHILD EFFECTIVE TIME MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

The post 7 Effective Time Management Tips For Students appeared first on A Team Tuition.

What Is a Comparative Essay?

A comparative essay is an essay that contains an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. What makes a comparative essay different to other essays is that it compares and contrasts two different texts. 

A comparative essay is usually completed by students in years 10, 11, and 12 undertaking General English. However, students in other English subjects and younger grades can also be asked to write comparative essays, or students may have similar assessments in other subjects, such as writing a history essay.

Comparative Essay Structure

In a comparative essay, much like other essays, there is your introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. There are a few different ways you can structure your essay, but these elements stay the same. 

• Introduction: In the introduction of a comparative essay, you should include; an overview and brief synopsis of the texts you are comparing, your thesis statement, and an outline of your arguments.
  
• Body paragraphs: The body paragraphs of your comparative essay contain all of your evidence and arguments, this is by far the longest part of your essay. This is where you actually compare and analyse the texts.
• Conclusion: Your conclusion should not introduce any new information, but rather summarise your arguments and restate your thesis. 

How to Write a Comparative Essay Introduction

As mentioned above, your introduction should include: an overview and brief synopsis of the texts you are comparing, your thesis statement, and an outline of your arguments. A good practice to see if your introduction is long enough is to have your introduction be 10% of your total word count – so an 800-word essay would have an 80 word introduction. 

Your introduction is the first thing people are going to read, so make sure it addresses the overall question clearly and succinctly. The easiest way to do this is in your thesis statement. 

Example Introduction:

“George Orwell’s ‘1984’ and Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’ both explore dystopian futures controlled by oppressive governments. While ‘1984’ presents a society under constant surveillance, ‘Brave New World’ portrays a world where technology and conditioning limit personal freedom. This essay will compare and contrast the methods of control in these two novels to highlight the dangers of totalitarian regimes.”

How to Write a Body Paragraph for a Comparative Essay

In the body of your essay you should have around two to four paragraphs. Each of your paragraphs should only surround one argument or idea that supports your thesis. 

There are two different ways you can structure the body of your essay, you can either: 

1. Compare and contrast both texts in the same paragraph for each idea, or, 
2. Dedicate paragraphs to each text individually. 

Both of these methods are perfectly acceptable, but there are limitations to both. For option one, it is important to remember you should be evenly analysing both texts, not favouring one over the other. It is also essential to remember for this option, to analyse in enough depth to support your argument. For option two, it is crucial that you are still comparing both texts. An easy way to do this is to us comparative language such as: however, conversely, in contrast, similarly. This is to ensure you are still meeting the requirements of the genre and task. 

Example Body Paragraph (Method 1):

“In ‘1984’, the government uses constant surveillance through telescreens to control citizens, instilling fear and obedience. Conversely, in ‘Brave New World’, control is maintained through the use of technology and conditioning from a young age, leading to a populace that is content with their lack of freedom. Despite these differing methods, both societies achieve the same end: the suppression of individual thought and the maintenance of power.”

Example Body Paragraph (Method 2):

Paragraph on ‘1984’: “In George Orwell’s ‘1984’, the government employs telescreens and thought police to monitor and control the actions of its citizens. This pervasive surveillance creates a climate of fear, ensuring that rebellion is almost impossible. The protagonist, Winston Smith, experiences this firsthand, leading to his eventual capture and reprogramming.”

Paragraph on ‘Brave New World’: “Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’ presents a different approach to control through the use of genetic engineering and psychological manipulation. From birth, citizens are conditioned to accept their predetermined roles in society, finding happiness in consumerism and recreational drug use. This ensures stability and conformity without the need for overt oppression.”

How to Write a Comparative Essay Conclusion

As mentioned above, your conclusion should not bring up any new arguments but should summarise everything you have said up to that point. This includes restating your thesis and arguments. Much like your introduction, it is good practice to have your conclusion be approximately 10% of your overall word count. 

Example Conclusion:

“While ‘1984’ and ‘Brave New World’ employ different methods of control, both novels serve as powerful warnings about the potential dangers of totalitarian regimes. Orwell’s depiction of a surveillance state and Huxley’s vision of a technologically controlled society highlight the various ways in which personal freedom can be eroded. By comparing these two texts, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of power and the importance of safeguarding individual liberties.”

Comparative Essay Writing Tips

• Create an outline: A well-structured outline helps you stay focused and ensures that your arguments flow logically from one point to the next.
• Always link back to your thesis statement.
• Reference as you go, do not leave it to the last minute.  
• Emphasise differences and similarities: Make sure to clearly highlight the differences and similarities between the two subjects.
• Use specific examples: Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and make your writing more persuasive.
• Use appropriate terminology, vocabulary, and comparative words such as
  • On the contrary
  • Although
  • Furthermore
  • Similar to
  • Unlike
  • In the same way
  • Likewise
  • Compared to
  • In contrast
  • On the contrary
  • Yet
  • On the one hand … on the other hand.

• Work with others to edit and refine your work, this may be using the support of an English tutor, or joining a study group. 
• The best way to work towards getting an A in English is drafting! Write a first draft as soon as possible – it is easier to edit than a blank piece of paper!
• Proofread and edit: Finally, make sure to proofread and edit your essay for grammar, spelling, and clarity.

Excel in Your Comparative Essay Writing!

The best way to improve your writing, whether it be comparative essays or any kind of essay, is to use the resources available to you. You can ask your teacher for help, form a study group with your friends and help each other, or you can get a tutor to help you!

Need a helping hand writing a comparative essay? A Team Tuition is here to help. With our tried and true tutoring and mentoring methods, we can help you write impressive essays with our at-home and online tutoring. Find an tutor and mentor near you today!

The post How to Write a Comparative Essay: Structure, Tips & Examples appeared first on A Team Tuition.

In fact, recent evidence suggests that mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and ADHD have increased steadily in Australia (and in many other Western countries) for at least a decade. Today:

•       1 in 7 Australians aged between 4 and 17 are experiencing a mental health condition.
•       As many as 1 in 3 young Australians are experiencing high psychological distress.
•       Almost 7% of young people are suffering from an anxiety disorder.
•       As many as 1 in 10 children are suffering from ADHD.
•       Suicide is the leading cause of death in young people.

But don’t despair! This isn’t a runaway train – the situation is firmly within your control, here we will explore how mindfulness helps students combat stress, anxiety and attention deficiency. 

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is nothing more than a deliberate focus on bringing one’s attention to the present moment. It might involve meditation, but it also might not. The practice of mindfulness could be literally hundreds of different things! Eating your lunch, walking to the bus stop, listening to music, playing sport – all of these activities may be a chance to practice mindfulness, so long as your attention is fully focused on that activity.

Why is mindfulness important?

Mindfulness is about training yourself to focus on the here and now, without being pulled away by distractions. It is about slowing down, and enjoying life for what it is, without becoming stressed or anxious or overwhelmed about what has happened, or what might happen – remembering that those time zones do not exist in the reality of the present.

I want you to stop and think for a moment. Bring to your mind the last time you scrolled through Instagram or TikTok, or the last time you sat and watched TV, or the last time you got the train home with your friend. How much of it can you recall? Were you fully focused on that moment, giving it your absolute attention, or did other things pull your attention away? Did you enjoy it? Were you happy in that moment? Or if not, what other things did you feel?

For better or worse, life has become chaotic and overloaded in many, many ways. Technologies have made us more connected than humans have ever been before. It is now so easy to send (and receive) a call, a message, or any other kind of alert or notification at any time on any day. Life is truly 24/7, it never seems to stop! As a result, we live life in a state of flux. It is harder and harder to devote our attention to one thing, without our minds constantly being pushed and pulled away.

How Mindfulness Can Help Students

The practice of mindfulness has been found to have a number of fantastic benefits for life, many of which can be directly applied to school and learning, including:

• Improved emotional and behavioural regulation. This allows us to respond to successes or failures with perspective, recognising that we are not defined by our results. Each day is a new chance to keep improving!
• Improved focus. The practice of focusing our attention on one thing for extended periods of time has obvious benefits when it comes time to work. By working mindfully, we reduce our susceptibility to distractions and can get into the zone. There’s a good chance this will boost academic performance too!
• Reduced feelings of anxiety. The practice of mindfulness is designed to bring our minds and our bodies into a state of unity, in which we feel and observe changes in the moment. It is the opposite of anxiety in the sense that, generally speaking, anxiety stems from a disconnect between brain and body, when we start perceiving our environments incorrectly,
• Better social skills. By practicing mindfulness, we become better at simply paying attention. In turn, this will allow us to connect with people more sincerely and deeply, paving the way for an improved social life.

How do I practice mindfulness?

As mentioned, the practice of mindfulness can take many different forms. Classic meditation is probably the best known, but honestly it can be anything, so long as it is an activity that you can commit all of your attention to. Here are a few easy practices to try:

1.       Meditation.

Don’t be scared off by the name, you don’t have to be a hippie or a Buddhist monk to meditate – anyone can do it! Find somewhere comfortable. Sit down or lie down and close your eyes. Take deep breaths in and out, bringing your attention fully to your breathing as you do. Count your inhales and your exhales. You might like to try counting up to 10, and then backwards down to zero. Don’t put any pressure on yourself, if thoughts creep in or you lose count, simply start again. Also, you may like to set a timer (5 or 10 minutes or so), or else just do it for as long as feels comfortable.

Too many people say they don’t have time to meditate, but honestly we can all find 5 or 10 minutes from somewhere in our day.

2.       Exercise.

Exercise? That isn’t mindfulness? You bet it is, and it can also be fun and healthy at the same time. Think about it, whether you’re simply going for a jog or you’re playing your favourite sport, the physically demanding nature of exercise makes it very hard to focus on anything else. I bet you’re not thinking about your maths homework on the soccer pitch or the netball court! Exercise is a sort of ‘natural’ way of practicing mindfulness. If meditation isn’t your thing, maybe this could be.

Also, exercising is a great way to enjoy some quality time with yourself. In the chaotic, ever-connected way of the world today, finding the time to be alone in your thoughts is becoming increasingly difficult. Switch your phone to aeroplane mode for half an hour, head out for a walk or a jog, and give yourself a bit of space from the mayhem.

3.       Art.

Okay, so you’re not into meditation, and exercise isn’t too appealing either. No worries! An art session can be a fun and wonderful way to practice mindfulness. And it can be anything you like – drawing, painting, sculpting, woodwork – the list is endless. Like the other methods though, the trick is to focus your attention fully on the art. Throw on some relaxing music (but make sure your phone is on aeroplane mode!) and get creative!

4.       Listening to music.

That’s right, practicing mindfulness can be as easy as listening to music. This method does present some challenges though, mostly because for most of us our music library is contained on the same device that pings with hundreds of notifications every day! So again, if you’re going to use this one, it’s absolutely essential that you’ve got your phone switched to aeroplane mode so it can’t be a distraction. Queue up a playlist, or a mix or an album, close your eyes if you like, and focus your attention completely on the music, as if you were seeing or hearing it live. Enjoy the beauty of the sounds and the lyrics and get lost in the music.

5.       Eating or drinking.

Okay, if nothing has caught your eye yet, surely there’s no shying away from this one. Eating and drinking, which we all do every single day, are an opportunity to practice mindfulness. Again, like all of these methods, you need to be fully focused on the activity. Don’t be on your phone or watching TV. Sit down with your meal or your drink, and focus only on that. Try and pay attention to the smells and to the different tastes and textures. Cooking is a true art, and this is your chance to honour and experience it fully!

If you are wanting to improve your child’s mindfulness, our academic personal trainers would be able to help you! Click here to find a tutor today!

The post How Does Mindfulness Help Students Combat Stress, Anxiety and Attention Deficiency appeared first on A Team Tuition.

But with your child’s limited attention span and the family’s busy schedule, it seems impossible to choose between online tutoring sessions and in-person tutoring sessions. Of course, they both have advantages and drawbacks.

Rather than participate in a tug of war about which tutoring style is better, your decision will boil down to what works best for your child’s learning needs. 

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of online tutoring versus in-person tutoring so that you can get your child’s learning experience [and grades] back on track.

When Should You Choose In-Person Support?

Home-Court Learning Advantage

One of the biggest advantages to in-person tutoring sessions is that the tutor works with your child in your home. It has been shown that working in familiar surroundings may improve their learning experience even more. If an in-person tutor comes to your home, that can give your child a home-court learning advantage. Think about it this way. The other 22 kids your child learns with at school won’t be around. Home is quieter, too. And it’s familiar to them.

While there are several benefits of tutoring at home, one stands out above the rest—home is a safe space. When a child learns in a safe space, they’re more likely to relax and focus on the lesson.

Hands-On Learning

Your child’s preferred learning style plays a crucial role in their educational success. For those who thrive on hands-on activities, in-person tutoring becomes the ideal choice. In this setting, tutors can incorporate interactive and practical exercises, catering to the needs of kinaesthetic learners. This approach is also particularly effective for primary school students and those with ADHD, as hands-on activities prove to be engaging and beneficial for maintaining their focus during sessions.

When Should You Choose Online Tutoring?

At A Team Tuition, online Transformation Programs  are often recommended for families with limited availability or when our in-person capacity near your home is nearly full.

Tutor Availability

Scheduling an online tutoring session is far more accessible than an in-person tutoring session. Most online tutors have very flexible schedules for their classes. As a result, you may have more tutoring time slots available. 

Opting for online sessions also grants your family access to A Team’s extensive pool of tutors, resulting in increased availability and a wider range of subject opportunities.

Tech-Savvy Learners:

Certain students exhibit a high level of comfort with technology, finding joy in utilizing digital resources, collaborative platforms, and multimedia content. For those who may feel a bit hesitant about in-person tutoring but have no qualms about engaging in online conversations with friends late into the evening, online tutoring sessions offer personalized support in a familiar and comfortable platform.

Possible Downsides to Online Tutoring

While online tutoring with the right tutor is still an interactive experience, it still has a few downsides. If there are technical issues on either end, this can interrupt or even end the session. Also, depending on the type of online tutoring you choose, you may find the sessions need a more personal approach. Let’s take a closer look at these downsides.

Personal Approach 

One of the main concerns when thinking about online tutoring sessions is a lack of personal approach. Although, some tutoring companies, such as A Team Tuition offer one-on-one sessions where the tutor and your child communicate in real-time on platforms that allow for interactivity and efficient communication. This allows the tutor to tailor the lesson as necessary to maximise your child’s learning experience, just like an in person session.

Online or In-Person Tutoring is Not a One-Size-Fits-All

Despite the pros and cons of online and in-person tutoring, you’ll want to choose the type of tutoring that best fits your child’s learning needs. 

And if you can’t decide between the two? 

You can always experiment with both. Observe how your child responds in each session. You can take notes and then discuss them with your child and the tutor to determine the best tutoring option moving forward. 

Are you ready to get your child’s grades back on track? Our online and in-person transformative tutoring programs at A Team Tuition can meet your child’s individual learning needs with our proven methods. Our tutors will boost their confidence and help them improve their grades. Let us help you start your child’s transformation today!

The post Online Tutoring vs. In-Person Tutoring: Which One Is Better for Your Child? appeared first on A Team Tuition.

In this guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of crafting compelling discursive essays, providing insights and practical tips to help you navigate how to write a discursive essay successfully. Let’s embark on the journey of honing your ability to present balanced viewpoints and articulate your thoughts with clarity and precision.

What is a Discursive Essay?

Discursive essays are versatile, allowing you to argue for or against a topic or present a balanced view. These essays, integral to English classes, foster critical thinking by exploring various perspectives. They come in different forms, such as opinion essays, for and against essays, or essays proposing solutions to problems. Understanding the nature and purpose of discursive essays is crucial for excelling in your English class.

Discursive Essay Structure

The structure of a discursive essay is straightforward but essential. It has a snappy introduction, persuasive body paragraph and a cohesive conclusion.

In the introduction, set the stage by clearly stating your stance or indicating a balanced view. The body paragraphs are the core, where arguments are built, each paragraph dedicated to a specific aspect of the topic. Finally, the conclusion summarises key points and may include your final position. This structure ensures coherence and clarity.

How to Write an Introduction for a Discursive Essay

The introduction is your chance to captivate readers. Avoid cliches and generalisations; instead, consider opening with a thought-provoking question, a relevant quote, or a surprising statistic.

For example, if your essay is on the impact of technology on education, you might start with, “In an era dominated by screens, is traditional education becoming obsolete?”

Clearly state your stance or intention to present a balanced view.

For instance, “In this essay, we will explore both sides of the debate regarding the influence of technology on education, ultimately arriving at a nuanced perspective.”

How to Write the Body for a Discursive Essay

The body is where your arguments unfold. Divide it into paragraphs, each focused on a specific point. Provide evidence from reputable sources to support your claims. To maintain a smooth transition between paragraphs, use connectives like ‘equally,’ ‘similarly,’ or ‘on the contrary.’ If you’re discussing the positive impact of technology on education, a transition could be, “Similarly, the accessibility of online resources has revolutionised the learning experience.”

How to Write a Conclusion for a Discursive Essay

The conclusion is not a mere repetition but a synthesis of your main findings. Recap key points and, depending on the essay type, state your final position. Express your personal opinion logically, aligning it with the evidence presented in the body. For example, “While technology offers unprecedented opportunities, a balanced approach that preserves the essence of traditional education is vital.”

Discursive Essay Writing Tips

• Utilise connectives: Use words like ‘however,’ ‘in contrast,’ or ‘conversely’ for smooth transitions between opposing viewpoints. For instance, “While some argue for the benefits of online learning, others vehemently oppose it. However, a nuanced perspective considers both sides.”
• Formal language: Maintain a formal tone. Avoid colloquial expressions; instead, opt for academic language. For instance, replace “kids” with “children” and “a lot” with “numerous.”
• Persuasive techniques: Experiment with persuasive writing techniques. For instance, if discussing environmental issues, use vivid imagery like “the lush greenery replaced by concrete jungles” to evoke a strong visual impact.

Need More Help With How to Write a Discursive Essay? A Team Tuition Can Help!

For personalised guidance and support in mastering discursive essays, consider reaching out to A Team Tuition. Our English academic personal trainers offer valuable insights and assistance tailored to your specific needs.

Whether forming study groups, seeking your teacher’s guidance, or opting for private tutoring and mentoring through A Team Tuition, these avenues can elevate your essay writing skills.

Remember, mastering discursive essays is not just about academic achievement; it’s a lifelong skill that enhances your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Take the first step toward academic excellence – contact A Team Tuition to schedule your first session and unlock your full potential. Happy writing!

The post How to Write a Discursive Essay: Structure & Tips appeared first on A Team Tuition.

The Relationship Between Goal Setting and Time Management

Goal setting allows students to truly visualise where they are going and motivate them to get there. Without these goals in place they may feel lost, or lack motivation when engaging in the classroom or doing homework. Once goals are set, time management helps your student plan exactly how they are going to achieve their goals and stay on track with not just school, but also work and social commitments.

Why Time Management Is Essential for Goal Setting

Good time management is crucial for students when it comes to achieving their goals. By managing their time effectively, they can prioritise tasks, stay organised, and ensure that they have enough time for studying, assignments, and other important activities. 

With proper time management, students can avoid last-minute stress and procrastination, allowing them to make steady progress towards their goals. It also enables them to stay focused and be more productive during their study sessions.

Goal setting and time management are important to every student. There are many different strategies that can be implemented depending on what your child is trying to achieve and how long they have to get there. There are also many different methods our ‘A’ grade students use to effectively manage their time and prioritise successfully

3 Strategies to Master Personal Goal Setting for Students

The problem with goal setting, is that many students don’t consider that they are actually working towards something while at school. Students benefit when they consider what really matters to them and work towards something they want and feel passionate about.

For your student, it may be something concrete a career choice, or something more abstract like the strengths they wish to cultivate.

Think about it… If your student can associate what they are learning in school with their long-term goals and something that is important to them, they will be more motivated to work towards that goal. The achievement motivation that is created by goal setting, causes your student to strive for success.

‘A’ grade students understand the importance of goal setting and primarily use three different strategies to set and achieve these goals:

1. The Staircase Model

‘A’ grade Students are able to use the staircase model to really focus on those long-term goals by creating smaller goals that build up to where they want to be.



Big dreams can be very daunting. A student in Year 9 that dreams of becoming a doctor may see that goal as far away, intimidating, and frightening. However, if they break up that big goal into smaller short-term goals it will make that big dream of becoming a doctor seem much more achievable. Using the staircase model also gives students something to work for, which adds both motivation and excitement.

So, if you had that Year 9 student that wanted to be a doctor, that would be their big, long term-goal. Then you can work backwards with them to set those smaller goals that will help them get there. Some of those short-term goals may be getting an A in just 1-2 classes, then getting an A in all of their classes, and eventually getting a great mark on ATAR.

2. SMART Goal Setting

SMART Goals are not just used by students, but in all different professions and businesses. Your child can use this strategy to make sure they have significant goals they feel are achievable. Using the SMART goals strategy, your student will be able to write goals that are well-structured, clear, and carefully planned.

Each goal that students create should contain all five elements of a ‘SMART’ goal. ‘SMART’ is an acronym for the following aspects of an excellent goal.

S: Specific

In order for your student’s goal to be specific, they must clearly identify an action; whether that be finishing an essay or reading a certain number of pages. Being specific makes student think about what needs to be achieved.

M: Measurable

When students set goals, being measurable is important for both their motivation and feeling of accomplishment. ‘A’ Students make sure that their goal can clearly be logged, measured, and evaluated. This allows students to check in and evaluate how they are progressing with their goal and be proud of what they have achieved.

A: Achievable

We often assume that goals need to be something we need to struggle for. Whilst goals should be moderately difficult, ‘A’ Students make sure that these goals are realistic enough to achieve. This enables your child to develop that achievement motivation and remain feeling empowered.

R: Relevant

When setting goals, ‘A’ grade students always keep in mind why they want to achieve them and what they will accomplish when the goal is complete . Doing this keeps the goal relevant to their own passion and also contributes to their enthusiasm.

T: Timely

This part of ‘SMART ’goals ties into the time management that comes after the goal setting. All goals should have some sort of deadline, especially with students. The time limit gives your student a challenge, but also provides a feeling of accomplishment once they complete the goal on time.

‘A’ grade students use the SMART goal strategy in many different ways. Some students may set one smart goal for every class, others may group them together into one goal for the term, and some may even set specific smart goals for a certain assessment. The thing to keep in mind is that students use this strategy in all different ways, a goal being ‘SMART’ just allows students to actually think about their goals and ensure that they are effective, regardless of what the goal is about.

3. Areas for Change Model

While the other two tactics for goal setting revolve around creating the goals, the Areas for Change Model allows your student to see what areas they may want to change and set goals for.

The Areas for Change Model shows there are three different areas of a student that can be transformed. They include academic skills, psychological skills, and interpersonal skills. All students have strengths and weaknesses in different areas. This can be based on their learning language, confidence levels, or personality. The model can allow students to think about where they are able to improve and what may be stopping them from achieving their goals.

A student may look at this model and believe they have superb academic and interpersonal skills; they may choose to set goals revolving around their psychological skills such as increasing confidence or stress management. Another student may look at this and see that they are lacking in academic skills. This can be improved by setting goals around study techniques and exam preparation. Whatever area your student chooses to work on, this model can help them visualise what areas they want to focus on when setting their goals.

Once your student has a good system for goal setting, they can move on to improving their skills in time management which allows dedicated time to work on those goals.

4 Systems For Effective Time Management 

Particularly in high school, ‘A’ grade students need to understand the balance between school, work, extracurricular activities and their social life. It definitely doesn’t come naturally or easily, but once your child is able to gain this routine and have tactics that help them manage their time, they will be able to achieve more in school and reduce unnecessary stress.

The key with time management is that students have many different time management skills and approaches. Some students are great with daily time management and making sure that they are actually productive with their time throughout the day, but don’t really know what is going on at the end of the week or the term. Other students may have a good long-term time management strategy but have a hard time finishing their homework or knowing what classes they have during the week.

For that exact reason, there are different strategies that can be used to ensure that your student is successful throughout the term, on a weekly basis, and on a daily basis: 

1. The Term Assessment Planner

Having a diary that shows your student what is coming up throughout the entire term is effective for planning ahead and making sure they are able to complete all of their tasks in advance.  ‘A’ grade students will write down all of their assessments and exams at the beginning of the term so they know exactly what is coming up for each class.

2. The Traffic Light System

The traffic light system creates a weekly or monthly planner where the student identifies all the tasks that are coming up and allocates them with a specific colour that mean different things.

GREEN: This task is still about 3-4 weeks away and should be in the initial stages.

YELLOW: This task is 1-2 weeks away and I should finish brainstorming and start drafting.

RED: This task needs to be completely finished this coming week

As time progresses, students will move their assignments from green, yellow, and red until they’re able to cross them out.

This time management system is perfect for visual learners and allows your student to create a weekly or monthly planner that helps them prioritise their upcoming tasks.
Based on my experience, this strategy is extremely useful during exam periods or busy times. There is also a massive sense of accomplishment when your student is finally able to cross something off of that list.

3. Weekly Management Plan

This time management schedule is perfect for those students who feel like they just can’t get a hold of their homework and designated study times. Using a weekly planner creates an overview of what they should be doing at every hour of a busy period of the day.

It should include:

• Study Time
• Study Breaks
• Homework Time
• Family Time
• Extra-curriculars
• Any other important activity

‘A’ grade students realise that a weekly time management plan can allow them to have a good balance between all of their commitments and study times. It also helps your student plan in advance how they’re going to fit homework and studying into a busy schedule.

4. Daily Time Management Strategy

Another strategy that your student can utilise is a daily strategy. This helps students who are easily distracted or have trouble with procrastination. It is also perfect for a designated “focus day” where your student may choose to do work for a specific subject or assignment.

In this time management plan, they should outline at least four tasks they are going to try to complete, how much time is required to complete the task, and what time they will be working on it. It is also very important that students reflect on how their daily time management strategy went by reading their own performance and raining down any follow-up tasks that need to be completed after the day is over.

Recognise the Importance of Time Management and Goal Setting

When it comes to goal setting and time management, the important thing is that you and your student understand that everyone is different. 

These are just some of the strategies and tactics that can be used for both setting goals and managing time, which are both very important aspects of being academically successful. Some students may use all of them, and some students may just use one or two. The important thing is that your student recognises which ones they can use and why it’s beneficial to use them.

If you feel like your child could use extra support with effective time management and goal setting, contact A Team Tuition and discover how our tutors can help.

The post Goal Setting and Time Management for Students: Why It Matters appeared first on A Team Tuition.

We’ve had parents come to us asking, “Can you help my struggling child?” And the answer is yes! If your child needs help getting back into the swing of things at school, A Team Tuition’s highly trained team of Academic Personal Trainers are ready to assist by providing transformative tutoring and mentoring. 

Why Is Consistency Important In Schools?

Consistency is vital to a child’s learning – consistency in the way concepts are presented to them, in the way teachers respond to behaviour, and in the way students are rewarded for both academic successes and behavioural successes.

This doesn’t mean that there isn’t flexibility in adapting teaching methods to the various ways individual children learn, but rather consistency in providing controlled spaces and controlled planning to help with children’s learning.

Sure, we can give them a bunch of study tips and hacks, but when a child clearly understands their routines and expectations, they feel confident in their ability to succeed. The more consistent teachers can be, the less intervention is needed and the more successful the child will be in their academic career.  

How to Create a Consistent Learning Environment for Students

Teachers have the power to shape our students’ educational journey and help them thrive. So, let’s explore some practical tips teachers can use to foster consistency in classrooms.

1. Set Clear Expectations

First and foremost, establish clear expectations from the beginning. Communicate the class rules, routines, and procedures, so students know what to expect and how to navigate the learning environment smoothly. Consistency starts with a solid foundation of shared understanding.

2. Create Schedules

Next, create a predictable schedule. Students thrive when they know what to expect each day. Set consistent times for lessons, activities, and breaks. This helps students mentally prepare for the day and creates a sense of structure that promotes engagement and focus.

3. Have a Consistent Teaching Approach

Consistency also means delivering instruction in a consistent manner. Use a variety of teaching strategies, but maintain a consistent approach. This ensures that students understand the format of lessons and can better connect with the content.

4. Organise Everything

Don’t forget about organisation! Keep your classroom and materials well-organised. This makes it easier for students to locate resources, follow along with materials, and stay on track. An organised environment reduces distractions and promotes a sense of order.

 5. Give Feedback

Regular feedback is essential for growth. Provide consistent feedback to students, both individually and as a class. Recognise their efforts, highlight areas for improvement, and offer guidance to help them succeed. Consistent feedback builds trust and shows that you are invested in their progress.

6. Be Flexible

Finally, embrace flexibility within consistency. Every student is unique, and their needs may vary. Be open to adapting your approach, while still maintaining the core elements of consistency. Flexibility ensures that students feel valued and supported.

By creating a consistent learning environment, we empower our students to thrive, grow, and achieve their full potential.

Helping a Child Struggling With Consistency

If your child is struggling to find consistency in their education, there is something you can do to help. Even when things are hectic at school, Our Academic Personal Trainers can be a consistent presence in your child’s life, helping them navigate gaps in their knowledge through expert tutoring or anything they may be finding difficult through mentoring. 

A team Tuition’s APTs follow a different approach – they select a Transformation Program based on your child’s unique needs. This personalised transformative tutoring plan provides help in the areas your child needs most. With tutoring support, mentoring and study strategies, your child can get back on track. It’s simple, it’s effective, and it will help.

If you feel like your child’s schooling lacks the consistency they need to succeed, contact A Team Tuition and discover how our APTs can build a stable learning environment.

The post Why Consistency is Key in School: The Importance of Consistency in Learning appeared first on A Team Tuition.

• Are you easily distracted by the atmosphere and moving environment around you?
• Would you call yourself imaginative?
• Are your workbooks and papers covered in scribbles and small drawings?

If yes, chances are you’re a visual learner.

What is a Visual Learner? 

People with a visual learning style engage with the world around them first and foremost with their eyes. 

Visual learners are what we call “spatially aware” – they remember and take in information mainly through their eyes, storing away thoughts based on what it looks like.

They pay attention to colours, lines, designs, patterns and spatial parameters. Elements of the traditional classroom suit them to a tee, such as the use of whiteboards, smartboards, educational videos and worksheets.

Since visual learners are intimately aware of their spatial surroundings, they tend to make great artists, architects and designers.

Common Visual Learner Characteristics

Although visual learners are spatially aware, this does not mean that they have a photographic memory. They aren’t able to simply look at a whiteboard full of information and remember it easily. Visual learners are not cameras.

The main strength of visual learners is their imagination. In fact, it’s one of the easiest ways to spot a visual learner – by the imaginative mind they possess. That, in and of itself, is the visual part – a visual learner, naturally, would be a visual thinker.

Here are some other indications that someone may have a visual learning style

• an ability to recall seemingly obscure faces and landmarks,
• books teeming with colours,
• sketches and annotations, and
• immaculately tidy and organised workspaces.

5 Learning Strategies for Visual Learners

The most effective study strategies for a visual learning style will engage their sense of sight. Some of the best examples include: 

1. Colour Coding

Often, visual learners will come to class with a pencil case full of different coloured pencils, pens, and highlighters. They will often use rulers or sticky notes, and are quite pedantic about the set up of their workbooks.

Those 4-colour biro pens and multi-packs of highlighters are your best friend. Organising different topics or ideas with different colours is an excellent way for visual learners to subconsciously form connections between content and commit it to memory.

2. Mind Maps, Graphics and Diagrams

Visual learners will also connect really well with making graphs, diagrams, or flow charts, and will often use mind maps for planning. When studying, they’ll often draw up posters, make illustrated flashcards, or construct a ginormous cheat sheet with all the formulas and different worked examples (often in different colours).

Similarly, by reorganising content into mind maps, connections between different materials can be seen much more easily.

3. Educational Videos 

While technology comes with its own set of challenges for students, it can also be very beneficial for their learning. One such example are educational videos – YouTube is a gold mine for visual learners! You can find a video on just about anything these days, including educational animations and infographics. The visual dimension of videos can hammer a piece of information home much more quickly and effectively than a wordy textbook for learners that rely on using their eyes.

4. Organise Your Notes 

It may sound like a no-brainer, but this is particularly important for visual learners. Remembering that visual cues are these individuals’ primary means of interacting with the world, an organised workspace translates to an organised mind ready to learn. 

Use colours and stickers, switch up the size and style of your titles, or add little doodles to make your notes more visually pleasing.

5. Use Flashcards

Flashcards are a great way for visual learners to study more effectively. 

To create flashcards, you can write down key concepts, vocabulary words, or important facts on index cards, along with a corresponding image or picture. The use of images allows visual learners to associate the information with a visual cue, making it easier to remember.

How Tutoring Can Help Visual Learners 

Is your child a visual learner who struggles with traditional classroom teaching methods? Don’t worry, they’re not alone! Many students find it difficult to understand concepts without visual aids. That’s where tutoring comes in.

With the help of a tutor, visual learners can receive personalised attention and support tailored to their unique learning style. Our Academic Personal Trainers not only tutor and mentor, but use visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and videos, to explain concepts in a way that will make sense to your student.

Contact us for more information on how to improve your child’s academic performance!

The post Visual Learning Style Essentials: 5 Visual Learner Study Tips appeared first on A Team Tuition.

KINAESTHETIC LEARNING STYLE

• Are you always fidgeting with pens or pencils in class?
• Are you unable to sit still, and find your legs bopping up and down constantly?
• Would you much prefer to be outside, playing a sport or moving around?

These are all examples of Kinaesthetic Learning – If these sound like you congratulations – You are probably a kinaesthetic learner.

Kinaesthetic Learning Style Definition

Kinaesthetic learners are individuals who are “environmentally aware” – they typically take in information through touch and movement, storing away thoughts based on what actions they took.

They tend to learn through experiencing a situation. Their understanding and reasoning is found in their actions, and the consequences of these actions.

Unfortunately, due to the nature of the education system, kinaesthetic learners suffer in the classroom. Typically, activities that allow students to ‘get up and do’ are typically only found in subjects such as P.E. or drama. These specialist subjects may be where a kinaesthetic learner flourishes – yet, in English or Mathematics, they will find themselves unfocused and uninterested.

You can typically spot a kinaesthetic learner by their physical behavior. They often show fidgeting behaviours, such as tapping their feet or fingers, or chewing and playing with pens and pencils. They find it very difficult to sit still, and so will stretch often in class.

Because of this, kinaesthetic learners are all too often branded as the “trouble student”. The teacher doesn’t see the student’s learning language being acted out – they simply see a student who is refusing to pay attention to the content.

This puts a kinaesthetic learner in a vicious loop: they fail to fully take in the content due to their distraction, but their distraction causes their teacher to feel negatively about them, which makes the student feel ostracised in class, which discourages them from learning and moves them to continue to be distracted.

Over the years, A Team Tuition has seen thousands of students facing this very problem. They are frustrated, yet shrug it off, pretending as if they don’t care about school. They simply believe that they are dumb, and will never achieve anything academically.

This is a complete and utter lie.

Kinaesthetic Learning Methods

Kinaesthetic students, when guided correctly, are incredible learners. Because they constantly assess and react to their environment, they naturally develop excellent analytical skills. They are incredible at problem solving, because they are able to see the actions that led to the problem, and find the solution through that.

A stereotypical example would be that of an athlete. Athletic individuals are, more often than not, kinaesthetic learners. This is because their brain has been trained to view the outcome of their actions, and base their understanding off of that. 

Kinaesthetic Learning in Sport

A soccer player would consistently practice kicking a soccer ball into the goals. Through this practice, and kicking the ball in a certain way 300 times, they understand that that kick will result in the ball being launched on that angle, for that far.

They understand the physics behind the motion without even realising it. If a kinaesthetic learner is asked to draw up a similar angle, they understand the reality of how it works.

However, not all assessment or content can be linked to kinaesthetic activity that the student has undertaken.

So what do you do then, as a kinaesthetic learner, when such a situation occurs?

In such a situation, out of the box thinking is required. The trick is not to take the assignment and run around while writing it (although movement exercises and learning combined do make for some fun times!).

Rather, focus should be on taking the assessment and making it real.

Kinaesthetic learners, as I mentioned before, are focused on the actions that they took to get to a certain point or understanding. The key is the reality of the situation; the fact that they can remember the touch, hold, or movement of a situation is paramount.

That memory, however, can be replicated, within a different circumstance. If the assessment task draws from reality – for example, a Mathematics assignment all about measuring one’s ability to run distances, or an English speech that is discussing a certain event students took part in – then it is more tangible to the student, and therefore sends their mind on the right track.

Now, often assignments are not structured in this way. When this happens, it’s important to connect it purposefully, through either an imaginative exercise, or finding a link between the content and a student’s preferences.

This is a solution I’ve heard many A Team Academic Personal Trainers undertake, and I’ve yet to hear of a situation where it has not helped improve or clarify a student’s understanding.

Kinaesthetic Learning Techniques & Strategies

One of the best examples I heard was of a tutor whose student was struggling to remember the definitions of various shapes.

This student was an avid bike rider, and happened to constantly talk about bikes to his tutor. So, the tutor associated the act of riding a bike to the student’s work.

The tutor took the student outside and created a track out of cones, in the shape of a quadrilateral, a triangle, a square, and various other shapes. The student would ride around the track, and had to name the shape, and define it according to the number of sides it had.

When the student went back into typical revision work, they were able to connect the physical activity they did with their tutor to the work in front of them. The memory would stick in their brain like glue, and they’d feel more confident in their work than they ever had before.

There are so many activities that a kinaesthetic learner can use to connect better with their school work. Anything that involves intense problem solving will help jolt a kinaesthetic student’s brain – particularly if there is a physical activity involved.

The best learning strategies for kinaesthetic learning style are those that engage them physically in some way, including:

• Using a stress toy or a fidget spinner. These kinds of toys may be seen by some as nothing but a distraction, but for a kinaesthetic learner they are a fantastic way to bring the hands into play while engaging in other tasks like making or reading notes.
• Create physical, hands-on activities and games. Get creative! Grab the costume box and do a Shakespearean role play, or set up an at-home supermarket to practice budgets and working out change. Anything hands-on will have a lasting impact on these learners.
• Try note taking on different platforms or devices. Recent technological innovations like the iPad are perfect for the tactile learner. Even the subtle difference between typing on a laptop and drawing using a touch pen can make a world of difference.
• Carefully curate a suitable study environment. As discussed, kinaesthetic learners are intimately aware of their surroundings. Too hot, too cold, too bright, too dark – if their study space is even slightly out of balance it can be hugely distracting. Creating a comfortable environment is critical.

I once tutored an early Primary school student who was a kinaesthetic learner. She was struggling to understand multiplication, especially when sitting down and looking at the problems on the page.

Instead of forcing her to mentally work through the problems, I started to make a physical game out of her homework. Using little square pieces of paper, I started placing groups of paper around the room, and asked her to find them and add them up.

For example, if her equation was 3 x 2, I would place three groups of two pieces of paper around the room. If it was 3 x 3, I would place three groups of three around the room. No matter what, my student would excitedly hurry about, find the groups, and add them up.

This ended up solidifying her mind that some numbers stood for a group, and that each group, when multiplied by a number, would result in the answer.

Her teacher was astonished at the progress this little girl had made in one transformative tutoring session.

You, too, might be astonished that such a simple (yet slightly strange) exercise would affect a student’s understanding so deeply. Yet, this is something that we have come to understand quite well, and that we are very passionate about: kinaesthetic learners are not dumb, or misfits, or the “trouble child”. They are intelligent, observant, and analytical.

They simply need someone who believes in them, and understands the way that their mind works. Once they have this person, and they work towards understanding their mind themselves, kinaesthetic learners have the ability to flourish beyond anyone’s belief – including their own.

Our Academic Personal Trainers specialise in adapting to your child’s learning style – contact A Team Tuition today! 

The post Kinaesthetic Learning Style: Meaning & Learning Strategies appeared first on A Team Tuition.

As we interact with the world around us, we rely on our five senses to absorb and comprehend information. Naturally, we will favour some senses over others. 

The combination of which of the senses a person uses in this process determines what we call a person’s learning style.

There are three primary learning styles– visual, aural and kinaesthetic – however people may be a combination of any of these, as the diagram below suggests:

“How do I find out my child’s learning style?”

Great question! (And an important one too). A Team Tuition has developed a diagnostic, learning style test which all of our tutor’s use with their students to determine their learning style. This test asks a series of multiple choice questions (some of which are shown below), and offers responses varied by their sensory focus.

‘A’ responses focus primarily on a visual engagement, ‘B’ responses on the use of speech and sound, and ‘C’ responses on actions and the surrounding environment.

Learning Style Test

You can use these questions to help identify your child’s learning style. Additionally, you might think of some more of your own, or pay attention to the way your child behaves in certain situations.

Does your child remember people’s faces while perhaps forgetting their names? Do they decorate school books with colours and drawings? In your child’s opinion, is YouTube the greatest educational tool ever invented? If so, chances are your child is a visual learner who responds well to anything that engages their sense of sight.

Do you ever notice your child staring into space when you’re trying to demonstrate and explain something to them? Yes? There’s a good chance they might be an aural learner who is actually paying close attention to the words, while not engaging with your actions.

Is your child always fidgeting? Maybe they’ve even asked for a stress ball? Do they like to get their hands dirty, finding themselves in their element learning new trades and crafts? Does your child find school a little boring and hard to engage with, but instead thrives in more flexible and hands-on environments? In all likelihood, your child is a kinaesthetic learner. They learn best by simply doing.

Once you’ve identified your child’s learning style, the next step is to understand its unique characteristics, and ways and means to get the most out it.

What is Aural Learning?

The Aural Learning Style

Aural learners lean primarily on their sense of sound. They love words, rhythms, tempos, lyrics and tones. They thrive in the traditional classroom environment, with a teacher explaining concepts mainly through speech, because they can soak up much of what is being said and recall it even after class has finished.

Aural learners tend to make great readers, writers, speakers and musicians. Their intimate understanding of rhythm and sound allows them to analyse and employ language (including the language of music) masterfully.

Think about someone like the great Ray Charles. Despite being blinded as a child, Charles was able to absorb and process information with his ears. Without the aid of sheet music, he became a master pianist and pioneered the soul music genre. Charles enjoyed a long and illustrious career which included 17 Grammy Awards and 11 number ones.

“What are the best aural learning strategies?”

As we have discovered, aural learners respond best to anything that engages their sense of sound, and are more likely to retain information gleaned in this fashion. Some strategies and activities that would be of great benefit to an aural learner include:

• Reciting flashcards aloud. While flashcards are great for visual learners, reciting them out loud brings the ears into the fold, adding a rhythmic dimension.
• Teaching content to someone else. It is often said that you don’t truly know something unless you can teach it to another. Having an aural learner try and express content through speech is a great way for them to synthesise and remember their thoughts and ideas.
• Engaging in discussions. Bouncing ideas off others allows aural learners to hear their thoughts out loud and analyse them more effectively, and also provides an opportunity to soak up other perspectives.
• Using podcasts. The trend of the 21^st Century! The world of podcasts is continually expanding, and you can find one on just about anything these days. Podcasts may be a great way to get some introductory knowledge on a topic, or to complement what may already be known.
• Recording notes for playback. Think of this one like a DIY podcast. If you’ve got a smartphone, it’s as simple as speaking your written notes into the voice recorder, hitting save and then pressing play. Voila, a bespoke educational podcast!
• Inventing rhymes or songs. Aural learners probably know the tune to the alphabet song as well as the order of the letters themselves. Creating rhymes or songs is a fun and effective way to use sound to make content more engaging and memorable.

What is Visual Learning?

The Visual Learning Style

Visual learners engage with the world around them first and foremost with their eyes. They pay attention to colours, lines, designs, patterns and spatial parameters. Elements of the traditional classroom suit them to a tee, such as the use of whiteboards, smartboards, educational videos and worksheets.

Visual learners are intimately aware of their spatial surroundings, and therefore tend to make great artists, architects and designers.

To some, a blank canvas is a no-go zone, or simply a weekend pastime. To people like Pablo Picasso or Leonardo Da Vinci, however, a blank canvas is a masterpiece waiting to be brushed to life, an opportunity for poetic and political expression. Their rich grasp of colours and patterns delivered us the Mona Lisa and the Guernica.

“What are the best visual learning strategies?”

The most effective study strategies for visual learners will engage their sense of sight. Some of the best examples include:

• Colour coding. Those 4-colour biro pens and multi-packs of highlighters are your best friend. Organising different topics or ideas with different colours is an excellent way for visual learners to subconsciously form connections between content and commit it to memory.
• Mind maps. By reorganising content into mind maps, connections between different materials can be seen much more easily.
• Using videos. YouTube is a gold mine for visual learners! You can find a video on just about anything on these days, including educational animations and infographics. The visual dimension of videos can hammer a piece of information home much more quickly and effectively than a wordy textbook for learners that rely on using their eyes.
• Use graphics and diagrams. Visual learners remember things they see. Supplementing written material with graphics or diagrams will dramatically assist their ability to recall material.
• Organise your notes. It may sound like a no-brainer, but this is particularly important for visual learners. Remembering that visual cues are these individuals’ primary means of interacting with the world, an organised work space translates to an organised mind ready to learn.

What is Kinaesthetic Learning?

The Kinaesthetic Learner

Kinaesthetic learners have a feel for the world around them. These learners use their sense of touch as the primary means of interacting with their environment. They won’t necessarily remember the specifics of a conversation, or who they had it with, but they’ll likely remember where they were when they had it, and maybe even what the weather was like too. Kinaesthetic learners are likely to relish the more practical subjects at school like physical education and design and technology, but may find the conventional classroom environment boring.

Kinaesthetic learners remember what they do, and store information through action. Their intimate feel for the world means they tend to thrive in more hands-on professions like cooking and carpentry, and also make great athletes!

Think about someone like Usain Bolt. His imposing physique no doubt gave him an edge in his pursuit of sprinting domination, but his sense of what 10 seconds and 100 metres must feel like would be second-to-none. He would have an intimate understanding of every inch of the track, and what his body must be doing at every stage to achieve running perfection. He would have been able to just feel the difference between hundredths of a second in his training. This awareness ultimately aided Bolt to 9 Olympic gold medals and the fastest 100m and 200m times ever recorded.

 “What are the best kinaesthetic learning strategies?”

The best strategies for kinaesthetic learning are those that engage the learner physically in some way, which could include:

• Use a stress toy or a fidget spinner. These kinds of toys may be seen by some as nothing but a distraction, but for a kinaesthetic learner they are a fantastic way to bring the hands into play while engaging in other tasks like making or reading notes.
• Create physical, hands-on activities and games. Get creative! Grab the costume box and do a Shakespearean role play, or set up an at-home supermarket to practice budgets and working out change. Anything hands-on will have a lasting impact on these learners.
• Try note taking on different platforms or devices. Recent technological innovations like the iPad are perfect for the tactile learner. Even the subtle difference between typing on a laptop and drawing using a touch pen can make a world of difference.
• Carefully curate a suitable study environment. As discussed, kinaesthetic learners are intimately aware of their surroundings. Too hot, too cold, too bright, too dark – if their study space is even slightly out of balance it can be hugely distracting. Creating a comfortable environment is critical.

Ultimately, it is important to remember that we use all of our senses at some point. While we may prefer some over others, the best learners are those who can employ bits of all three learning languages. They can all be nurtured with a little time and effort.

Help Your Child Develop an Effective Learning Strategy

Everyone learns and evolves differently, which is why attuning to our strengths is the best way to go forward. If you feel like your child could use extra support with focus and study motivation, contact A Team Tuition and discover how our tutors can help. 

The post What Is Your Child’s Learning Style? Kinaesthetic, Aural & Visual Learning Styles | A Team Tuition appeared first on A Team Tuition.

What is a text response essay?

A text response essay is a style of writing where you share your reaction to something. It’s an opportunity to share your opinion with the world! 

A text response essay is specifically a response to a book that you read, but it can also be a response to a film that you watched, or a video game you played.

In order to get an A in English when writing a response, it is important that your essay gets the following points across to your audience: How you feel about what you read/saw/heard, what you agree or disagree with, can you identify with/relate to the situation? And the best way to evaluate the story. 

How do you structure a Text Response Essay?

When writing a text response essay, you start by introducing the text you will be responding to. Then in your body paragraphs you want to tell your audience how you feel about the text you are responding to, if you agree with it or disagree, how you may or may not identify with the text and how you evaluate it. Then in the conclusion, you restate your main point and sum up the main points. 

How to Write a Text Response Introduction

To begin with, you will set up the context. This will include the type of text you are responding to (is it a book? A play? A collection of poetry?), basic historical context (time, subject matter). 

Next explicitly outline your opinion. This must be clearly addressed in all aspects of the topic you are given. It also needs to demonstrate that you can think independently and uniquely. Finally, briefly introduce the topics you will be covering in your body paragraphs. 

Overall, try to keep your introduction to 3 to 4 sentences to keep your introduction clear and to the point, so your audience doesn’t lose interest. 

How to Write a Text Response Body Paragraph

When writing the body of your text response essay you should include 3 to 5 paragraphs. This allows you to be able to discuss your topics and your text in as much detail as possible. When writing your body paragraphs, it could be helpful to remember the acronym ‘TEEL’

Topic Sentence – Each paragraph should begin with this sentence; it serves as an introduction to your argument. It should engage with the topic you’ve been asked to discuss

Expand/example – After you have introduced your main point, you are going to expand on this and provide examples from the text you are responding to. 

Evidence – At this point you will be using your text to support your examples, essentially to prove what you have interpreted from the text.

Linking Sentence – At the end of each of your body paragraphs you should be linking back to your central theme/topic of your essay. 

Here is an example of a text response body paragraph: 

Early in the novel, London makes reference to Norm White, the resident groundskeeper of The Golden Age Convalescent Home. [Topic Sentence] Norm White hands Frank Gold a cigarette, ‘as if to say a man has the right to smoke in peace’. Here, there is a complete disregard for rule and convention, an idea that London emphasises throughout the text. This feature provides a counter-cultural experience for Frank, pushing him to realise that he is a strong human being rather than a mere victim. [Expand/Example] This is a clear contrast to the “babyishness” of the home and is used as evidence of true humanity in an era where society judged upon the unconventional. Frank yearns for a traditional Australian life after his trauma in Hungary; ‘his own memory…lodged like an attic in the front part of his brain’. Hedwiga and Julia Marai’s caring of him pushed him towards fear and reluctance to trust, yet also pressured him to seek acceptance in a world that ostracises him for his Jewish heritage and polio diagnosis. This here is why Frank desires a mature, adult connection – love that regards him as an equal human being. Frank seeks Elsa’s love and company as she too loathes being reduced to a victim, an object of pity. Frank thereafter uses humour to joke of his wounds; ‘we Jews have to be on the lookout’. Elsa sees ‘a look in his eyes that she recognised’, thus their bond enables both characters to heal. [Evidence] London alludes that Frank requires love and recognition not from the perspective of a sorrowful onlooker, rather he longs to be recognised as a mature adult. [Linking Sentence] 

How to Write a Text Response Essay Conclusion

Your conclusion should be short and sweet! You just need to restate and summarise the points you made in your body paragraphs! Remember to not add any new information to your conclusion. Sometimes as you are summing everything up, you can come across another point that you really want to talk about – and that is amazing! If this happens to you, make a new body paragraph! And then you can talk about it in your conclusion. It can also sometimes be unavoidable for your conclusion to sound very similar to your introduction and be a bit repetitive – this is ok! Just be sure to use different words from what you used in your introduction. 

Text Response Essay Writing Tips

When writing text responses essays, you should:

• Always write in the present tense. 
• Express complex ideas in several short sentences instead of long, this is more likely to control the reader’s interest.
• Express simple ideas in longer, complex sentences. 
• Tie everything back to the question. When preparing to write the essay the question asked should be dissected and at the forefront of your mind. 
• Do not be afraid to make bold statements! 
• Remember to consider how you feel about what you saw/read/heard, and to ask yourself if you agree or disagree with it! 

If you find yourself stuck, our English Tutors are here to help! 

Want to Excel in Your Text Response Essay Writing?

Using resources that are available to you are your greatest ally when it comes to writing your text response essay! There are great resources online such as YouTube Videos explaining how to get started and blog posts.

You also have access to your teacher and peers! Do not be afraid to ask your teacher for help – you are not going to get in trouble or made fun of for not knowing where to start. In fact, your teacher would be very excited to help you! It is why they are there after all! You can also utilise your peers! Set up a small study group with your friends and classmates! You can also get yourself a private tutor if you feel like you could use some extra help.

Need a helping hand writing a text response essay? A Team Tuition is here to help. With our tried and true tutoring methods, we can help you write impressive essays with our at-home and online tutoring. Find a tutor near you today!

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