Ben Zelenka Martin
Location: West London
I predominantly teach:
Application Essays, SATI Critical Reading
Other Subjects
Theatre Studies
Experience
I have experience tutoring for an agency in Oxford, where I have mostly been doing preparation with a candidate for her Oxford pre-test, and from tutoring children in my local area. My work with Keystone has thus far been focussed on helping clients seeking to improve their scores for SATs and revising for Economics A-Levels.
I am a qualified sailing instructor. During the instructor course, I learned how to structure lessons, how to manage groups, and how to set goals for learning.
I also coached the junior debating team when I was at school. This taught me a great deal about fostering enthusiasm in children, providing them with achievable goals. Most importantly, it taught me how to give children confidence in their own ability to succeed.
Biography
I grew up in Barnes, London, where I attended St. Paul's School. I gained 10 A* grades in my GCSEs. I scored an A in AS-Level Theatre Studies and I also achieved straight A grades in my A-Levels, which were German, English Literature, Mathematics (all of which I scored above 90% in) and Economics(in which I got 100%). I also took SATs for admission to American Universities. I scored 2310 in my SAT 1, and in my SAT 2 examinations, I scored 800 in Mathematics 2 and English Literature, and 720 in French. I also scored the highest ever score on the aptitude test that is required of PPE, Psychology, and E&M candidates for Oxford. I am studying PPE at Brasenose College, Oxford. In my spare time, I enjoy going to the theatre, acting, sailing, skiing, and travelling.
Personal Approach
I have found that the most enthusiastic teachers are often the best, and I think that the best way to help someone to find a love of learning is to lead by example and show passion for scholarship.
I also believe that each person is unique and that a one-size-fits-all approach to learning rarely works. It is important to adapt one's style of teaching to each child, and to give them enough space to learn in their preferred way. I find a Socratic style of teaching very effective - I think it is important to have a two-way dialogue during the learning process.
I also think that it is very important to make learning fun! I enjoy having a laugh with my students, and trying to connect with them on a personal level to try and help them to enjoy the subject.
Testimonials
Ben Zelenka Martin has been tutoring my 13 year old son for the Eton Scholarship exam, concentrating on the General Papers. He is dedicated and hard working, and relates well to his pupil. Ben stuctured tutor sessions in a very organised manner and had a clear idea of what was required for the exams in hand. He marks practise essays thoroughly which is very helpful. - Catherine
Ben Zelenka Martin is a fantastic economics tutor. He is well-prepared, engaging and passionate about the subject and teaching. In a short time, he has built my son's confidence by assuring that he understands the concepts necessary and has mastered the technique to pass the exams. I highly recommend Ben. - Tina