Question 1

What is the Susan Barton reading approach?

Accepted Answer

The Susan Barton approach is a structured, multisensory reading method designed to help students develop strong decoding and comprehension skills. It emphasizes explicit phonics instruction, systematic progression through sound patterns, and hands-on learning techniques that engage multiple senses. This method is particularly effective for students who struggle with traditional reading instruction or have dyslexia-related challenges.

Question 2

Do Rochester schools use the Susan Barton method?

Accepted Answer

While Rochester's 25 school districts and 102 schools may use various reading approaches, Susan Barton tutoring provides specialized instruction that complements classroom learning. Many students benefit from personalized 1-on-1 instruction in this method even when their school uses a different reading curriculum, as it targets individual gaps and learning styles more directly than classroom instruction alone.

Question 3

Which students benefit most from Susan Barton tutoring?

Accepted Answer

Students who struggle with phonics, have difficulty decoding words, show signs of dyslexia, or aren't progressing with standard reading instruction often see significant gains with Susan Barton tutoring. The method also helps advanced readers strengthen their foundational skills and develop greater reading fluency and confidence. Personalized instruction allows tutors to move at each student's pace, addressing specific challenges rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Question 4

What happens in the first Susan Barton tutoring session?

Accepted Answer

During an initial session, a tutor will assess your student's current reading level, identify specific challenges with phonics or decoding, and discuss learning goals. This diagnostic foundation helps the tutor create a personalized instruction plan aligned with Susan Barton principles. Subsequent sessions build on this assessment, introducing sound patterns and decoding strategies in a structured, multisensory way.

Question 5

How long does it take to see improvement with Susan Barton tutoring?

Accepted Answer

Many students show noticeable progress in decoding and phonemic awareness within 4-6 weeks of consistent, personalized instruction. However, the timeline depends on the student's starting point, frequency of sessions, and how much practice happens between tutoring appointments. Regular practice and reinforcement accelerate results, and students often gain confidence alongside measurable skill improvements.

Question 6

How is Susan Barton tutoring different from classroom reading instruction?

Accepted Answer

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to focus entirely on your student's unique learning style and pace, whereas classroom teachers in Rochester's schools manage 12.8 students per teacher on average. Susan Barton tutoring provides explicit, structured phonics instruction with immediate feedback and adjustments, multisensory techniques tailored to individual needs, and the flexibility to spend extra time on challenging sound patterns or concepts.

Question 7

What qualifications do Susan Barton tutors have?

Accepted Answer

Varsity Tutors connects students with tutors who have specialized training and expertise in the Susan Barton reading method. Look for tutors with certification in Susan Barton instruction, experience working with students who have reading challenges or dyslexia, and a track record of helping students improve decoding and fluency skills. During the matching process, you can discuss a tutor's specific qualifications and experience.

Question 8

How much does Susan Barton tutoring cost for students in Rochester?

Accepted Answer

Tutoring rates vary based on the tutor's experience, your student's grade level, and session frequency. Varsity Tutors works with tutors offering a range of pricing options, and you can discuss rates directly when connecting with a tutor. Many families find that personalized instruction delivers strong returns through measurable reading improvements and increased academic confidence.

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