FAQ

Most students will probably choose to have video sessions with James. For students living within Greater Vancouver and desire to have in-person sessions, that can be arranged according to each student. (Please note that for in-person sessions, there’ll be an extra $5 added per hour to cover travel costs)

Each session will be catered towards each student’s level and learning goal (especially according to the information given in the student intake form ). We’ll be spending most of the time improving on language areas chosen by the student, and near the end of the session, James will be recommended next steps for English learning outside of the classroom. Between sessions, students can contact James via messaging or WeChat (微信) to ask questions or for recommendations for learning.

For 1-on-1 tutoring, the typical length is 60 minutes, whereas for group sessions, the length is typically 75 minutes. However, if students want to increase the time per session, that can be arranged.

Because 《Talk with James》aims to personalize the content to students, the training plan for each person differs from student to student. As the《Talk with James》YouTube Channel gets updated, you’ll get a feel of the types of curriculums that can be offered. Also, you can check out some sample classes below:
a] A sample of corrected notes on studying a short story with a high school student (see word document)

b] Sample of audio classes on Clubhouse

i. Sample Pronunciation Class and class notes

ii. Sample Advanced English Class (Topic: Lee Kuan Yew’s English Interview) and class notes

Typically, we cater to advanced English students, especially those who are students or working professionals in the West (USA or Canada). For students below advanced level, please contact James and a tutoring arrangement can be considered. (For more information on my target audience, please see: Talk with James Promotional Video)

Although this is not the focus of《Talk with James》tutoring service, for students who are interested, please contact James and an arrangement can be considered.

Schedule times can be flexible. You can check out the scheduling times under the “Contact Us” page.

Yes

There are a few ways for a reduced cost in student fees. First, if an existing student refers you to James, the cost goes down to $75/hour. Second, if you have other students wanting to do group classes, the cost is reduced per student (please see the “Rates” page). Finally, if you commit to at least 10 sessions or more with James, a reduced tutoring cost can be negotiated.

The first 30-minute meeting will be complimentary which will either be used as a trial session or to begin the orientation to create your study plan. However, there may need to be some time spent during the second class for crafting and refining the study plan. Before the first session, students need to fill out the student intake form to give the teacher more information for catering each session to the student.

Students must give at least 2 days notice to have full credit (to use for the next session). Otherwise, there’ll be a full charge for last minute cancellations or no-shows.

Yes. For more information, please visit the “Services” page.

Definitely. In fact, this communication and feedback is essential to James’ vision of language learning. (Check out “Expectations of me as a teacher” Video)

James will select and cater material to support student learning both within and outside our tutoring sessions. Most of the resources he will recommend will not require additional fees. One available resource is learning through the 《Talk with James》YouTube channel.

There are several ways to monitor progress. First, as you improve, the people you interact with either via verbal or written communication will notice an improvement and may even compliment you. Second, James will provide updated feedback on your progress throughout the sessions. Moreover, you yourself should be able to perceive greater fluency in your English communication over time. Finally, according to the curriculum and training plan that we have chosen, you should see marked improvement on vocabulary, fluency and accurate expressions as you study with James.