About
I tailor lessons to the student's needs and wishes.
Seeing people actually speak French or Italian as they prepare for their trip.
Specialties
Current writing level
Current reading level
Speaking goals
Current speaking level
Students age
Reviews
jake W.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I would meet with the student in person, or over the phone, or using FaceTime to assess the student's current knowledge of the language. Then we discuss the student's reason for learning the language: to speak, for pleasure, for culture, for travel, for school, for job opportunities.
Based on that I create a plan of studies to get the student where he/she wants to be.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I lived 4 years in Paris, France, and became quite fluent in French. I have been teaching it in language schools since around 1980.
My Italian comes from having spoken it in the home as a child. I traveled to Italy several times to practice and perfect it. I have been teaching it in language schools since around 1980.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are $40 per hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I applied at a large international language school and was accepted, to teach French, Italian, and ESL part time.
In 2005 I started a language school in the Hartford CT area, and taught languages there as well as managed the school.
I closed the business in 2016 and continue to teach through various on-line tutoring and teaching services.
What types of students have you worked with?
Americans wishing to learn a new language. Non-English speakers wishing to improve their English. From age 18 on up to well past retirement age.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for flexibility, so the teacher can adapt to your goals for learning the language.
Look for patience, from someone who has learned several other languages and understands the challenges involved in learning another language.