What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
During each class, we will begin by going over our conversation rules: no unkind words, no interrupting, and no referencing sensitive topics. Then each student will be asked to type a conversation prompt (such as "What's your favorite memory?" or "What food do you really dislike and why?") into the chat, and I will choose one for us to begin class with. We will start by discussing that topic and then build on each other's ideas to create a lasting conversation. The other prompts put into the chat will be used if/when our conversation reaches a lull. I will participate in the discussion and moderate, ensuring that all students get to talk and no one is interrupted. At the end of every class, I will privately message each student with their "grade" for the class -- their grade will be lessened for interrupting others, talking too much, or suddenly changing the topic of conversation without giving others a chance to speak. An "A" grade will be given to any students who listen and participate actively without dominating the conversation. I will give feedback respectfully and kindly, offering suggestions for how to handle future conversations better. I am a kind and encouraging teacher; I am great at making students feel at ease. I will ensure that conversations stay polite and that we avoid topics of religion and politics! This class is a fun way to practice social skills and gain confidence.
Learning Goals
Students will hone their listening and speaking skills. They will learn how to share ideas and thoughts with others in a way that doesn't monopolize a conversation but does allow them to share things.
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hello!
My name is Maura, and I'm an actor, musician, poet, and teacher. I have been teaching and tutoring for fifteen years. I'm always excited to share what I've learned with my students!
I graduated summa cum laude from Carthage College with degrees in Music and Theater Performance, and have been performing professionally as an actor and musician. I regularly perform with a children's theater that teaches kids about conservation!
I am also a published poet, and a professional ghostwriter and freelance book editor. As a huge nerd, I have read and am currently reading countless books, and I have an in-depth knowledge of plot creation and good literary structure.
I also teach life skills, particularly cultivating motivation and dealing with overwhelming or negative emotions. I was home-schooled until college, and I am an extremely self-motivated person, as well as a problem-solver. As a highly sensitive person, I have to deal with stress often and have discovered numerous ways to deal with the inevitable tensions that life brings to us! I learned to be a positive person in high school, and I love teaching students ways to appreciate what is good even in the midst of negative situations.
I am a very kind, patient, and encouraging teacher. I do well with both quiet and energetic students. My approach is question based, and I not only teach my students new information, I teach them how to arrive at valuable conclusions themselves. I use time efficiently, and am well prepared for every lesson I teach. I was homeschooled through high school, and I have a lot of respect for homeschooling parents and students.
I hope to see you virtually soon!
Maura
Reviews
Live Group Class
$10
weekly1x per week
30 min
Completed by 1 learner
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-17
3-8 learners per class