Elana Snow
Somerville, MA
Expertise
I am a graduate of both Johns Hopkins University, where I focused on writing, and the Harvard Graduate School of Education where I studied Human Development and how the human mind actually learns. I was a private school English teacher for 5 years, before bowing out to work one-on-one with students who struggle in school. I have now had 2 years of practice, studying under world renowned researchers and clinicians who have helped me to learn to teach to ALL types of learners. I have worked with students of varying backgrounds--traditional learners, high level learners, and students with learning differences (dyslexia, ASD, etc)--so I am happy to change my technique based on the type of learner I work with. My approach is student-centered and it varies based on the student. It usually requires an iterative process where we target areas of need, create goals to accomplish those targets and then continue to wind back and practice those target areas when/if students begin to struggle.
Teaching Methods
Teaching methods will vary based on the course. In writing courses, I use the students' own writing to identify their most common areas of difficulty. We target the top three or four target areas using either current in-school assignments, or, if need be, external assignments that I create. Each week, we work on a new piece of writing to see how the target areas were met.
In test prep courses, I begin by having students take a sample test as a diagnostic. We use that to identify the types of questions with which they most commonly struggle. We work on those questions for a few weeks, both in sessions and as part of session HW. Once we have mastered them, students take a second test and we look for improvement. The process continues until the student feel comfortable enough to take the actual SSAT/SAT/other standardized test.
Education
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) from Harvard University Graduate School of Education in Human Development and Psychology in 2009
- Bachelor's degree from The Johns Hopkins University in Psychology; History of Art in 2002
Professional History
- English and Writing Teacher at St. Mark's School in from 2013 - Present
- Assistant Director at Camp Runoia in from 2012 - 2012
- English Teacher at Newark Academy in from 2010 - 2013
- English Teaching Fellow at Chewonki Foundation in from 2008 - 2009
About Me
Though writing is a passion, it does not define all of me. I'm a proud Rhode Island native and hence I am a fan of all the Boston-area minor league teams (Go Pawsox!) I have lived in the Somerville area off and on since 2006 with a small stint Maine and another in NJ. I'm a happy go-lucky outdoor adventurer, who can be found at the local farmer's markets and/or biking around town. I am a singer and a mandolin player who enjoys getting together with friends to play music. I fancy myself an artist, but it's been too long since I've gotten to indulge that side. I am an avid reader known to read a novel in a day or two when I have the time. On Monday nights I invite my friends over for homemade ice cream, an event with a growing following an endless opportunities to meet new friends. If you work with me, I MAY share some of that homemade ice cream with you too!
References
(2)
Tom A.
13:47 PM 28/Jul/14
Relationship: Friend
In twenty years of working in schools, Elana snow is one of the most insightful, inspiring educators I have worked with. Elana's ability to connect with young people and identify the core issue that will allow them to move forward is outstanding. Not only is Elana excellent in teaching English, but she understands and uses the principles of child development to better help your people to improve their skills and their confidence. Elana identifies specific techniques that are succinct and simple: this method better allows them grow as writers and improve their understanding of literature. I am confident she will help your child.
David G.
13:46 PM 28/Jul/14
Relationship: Friend
I was lucky to have the chance to work with Elana in the English Department at Newark Academy for three years. She was a rising star at the school, hugely popular with colleagues, parents, and students alike because of her passion, skill, and personality. Elana's passion for literature and the English language was clearly contagious; students who had not enjoyed reading and writing left Elana's class with confidence and enthusiasm. Her ability to instill such an attitude comes through her content mastery and—even more importantly—her deep understanding of students. Elana's cheerful nature makes her an encouraging mentor, but her encouragement is deliberate and rooted in an understanding of each student with whom she works. Elana knows her stuff; but more importantly, she knows how to get the best out of every student. She is an excellent choice as a tutor; the mobs of students who swarm her when she visits New Jersey will back me up on that.
Tom A.
13:47 PM 28/Jul/14
Relationship: Friend
In twenty years of working in schools, Elana snow is one of the most insightful, inspiring educators I have worked with. Elana's ability to connect with young people and identify the core issue that will allow them to move forward is outstanding. Not only is Elana excellent in teaching English, but she understands and uses the principles of child development to better help your people to improve their skills and their confidence. Elana identifies specific techniques that are succinct and simple: this method better allows them grow as writers and improve their understanding of literature. I am confident she will help your child.
David G.
13:46 PM 28/Jul/14
Relationship: Friend
I was lucky to have the chance to work with Elana in the English Department at Newark Academy for three years. She was a rising star at the school, hugely popular with colleagues, parents, and students alike because of her passion, skill, and personality. Elana's passion for literature and the English language was clearly contagious; students who had not enjoyed reading and writing left Elana's class with confidence and enthusiasm. Her ability to instill such an attitude comes through her content mastery and—even more importantly—her deep understanding of students. Elana's cheerful nature makes her an encouraging mentor, but her encouragement is deliberate and rooted in an understanding of each student with whom she works. Elana knows her stuff; but more importantly, she knows how to get the best out of every student. She is an excellent choice as a tutor; the mobs of students who swarm her when she visits New Jersey will back me up on that.