FAQ
Yes, you can actually see your face in the video. It works like a mirror, which is great for correction. Also, I can share the screen with you to show you my written lessons and use the annotations feature on Zoom to make personalized notes on the lesson. Then I can send you a screenshot so you remember everything we talked about. Plus, you can request to record the lesson. What's more, we can share a Google Doc and edit together; that means we can work on your presentation or article together.
Everyone learns at a different rate. What takes one student ten minutes may take another student two hours. After I have done your test assessment, I can estimate how many hours you might need. After your second lesson I can refine my estimate based on how well you did your homework and learned between the first and second lesson.
Whatever is most convenient for you. If you pay for one lesson at a time you can stop whenever you want. If you buy a package, you will be motivated to complete all your lessons. Plus, your time slot will be secured. Remember, you have 18 months to use your package so you still have plenty of time for vacation. Also, you can pay for one lesson, see if you it's a good fit and then subtract that lesson fee from the cost of a package.
After each lesson I will email you repetition audio that matches the lesson we covered. I will say the same sentence up to ten times and leave a space between each sentence for you to imitate me. Each time you imitate me, you will notice something new about the sentence. You will begin to self-correct and improve your muscle memory. You can listen to the audio and imitate while you’re driving, shaving or washing the dishes. Short five-minute practices throughout the day are most effective for changing your muscle memory. You will also want to take difficult phrases that we work on together, write them on a sticky note and attach them to your mirror or computer. Practice them daily and try to incorporate them into your daily life. Keep your goals simple. Work on incorporating only one or two phrases per day into your conversation.
No, it won’t. That’s why I heavily supplement the textbook with materials I made myself. I constantly make new materials for new students as needed.
Absolutely not. While other professionals require 24-hours’ notice, I only require 4-hours’ notice, so it’s very easy to reschedule with me. I understand that work meetings can suddenly pop up.
Yes. We can create a mixed package. Also, we can apply money from in person lessons toward extra Zoom lessons. Anything is possible!
No. I have also taught on Webex, Google Meets, Voov, Skype, Facetime and even Facebook messenger.
To save money, it's a great idea to take my online courses first and then take private lessons to go over what you learned in the online courses. I can let you know if you have mastered the lessons or need further practice. Then I can lead you in the right direction and coach you on anything your didn't internalize correctly.
To be very efficient, one can start with private lessons, and I will assign you relevant homework from the online courses. Then we can check your progress on the homework at your next private lesson.
Many students also use the online courses as review after taking a series of private lessons with me.
I am passionate about my work and the English language. I offer the most detailed knowledge I’ve seen, yet I know how to convey it in a clear and organized fashion. Just watch one of my YouTube videos or read one of my blog entries to confirm this.
Yes. I have helped many students revise their articles, presentations or interview answers and improve the delivery. At any time we can replace one of your regular lessons with presentation or interview preparation. You can change the numbers, names or any confidential information before sharing your presentation with me.
Yes, I used to teach TOEFL preparation courses for Kaplan. I can help you with preparation for any test.
In small group lessons, there will be a maximum of 5 students. Students can ask questions in the beginning. Then there will also be a lesson where all students participate and receive correction. The theme of the lesson will change from month to month. Small group lessons, in conjunction with the online courses and office hours, is an economical way to learn.
If you are learning with me through my online courses, YouTube videos or private lessons, you can come to Zoom office hours once a month to ask questions or have me check your progress.
Contact me &
Let's get started!
Email sheila@smooth-english.com
Phone number 408-674-0584