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Because all students needs and learning styles are different, a variety of methods and techniques are available at Banyan Tree Learning Center. Sometimes a student may need to "fill in the gaps" of a particular skill area such as reading, writing or basic math. Others may need tutoring in a specific subject, like advanced math, foreign languages, or science. And there are those students who really struggle to learn because of a disability or inefficiency in processing. We can help to determine where the problem is, and develop a program to help.

Basic Skills for Reading, or Math, or Written Language: Working on a specially designed program, students work with 1 or 2 other students. Using a rotational model, students learn new concepts and skills working with a certified teacher, are provided with an opportunity for guided practice, and finally, do independent work. This program is for students who need to fill in the gaps in these academic areas and who have the underlying processing skills to work efficiently in a small group. We recommend at least one hour twice a week for 12 weeks, but more often is helpful to see the best results. This is our most economical instructional program.

Study/Organization Skills (SOS Class): Banyan Tree has developed its own unique program for study and organization skills. Pulling from the best of many programs, we teach note-taking, test preparation, dealing with test anxiety, organization of daily work and long term projects, time management, and goal setting. A group of four meets twice a week for 8 weeks. Students enrolled in this course may attend Homework Club once a week at no extra charge while they are enrolled in the course, to use their newly learned skills independently, but with support if needed.

Writing Essays and Reports (WEAR Class): Once the basic skills of written language are mastered, students may attend WEAR. Students learn the structure of various types of writing, find the method that works best for them, and practice writing using both school assignments and session assignments. A group of four meets twice a week for 8 weeks. Students enrolled in this course may attend Homework Club once a week at no extra charge while they are enrolled in the course, to use their newly learned skills independently, but with support if needed.

Specific Course Tutoring: When a student needs help in a particular course, such as advanced math, a foreign language, or science, we provide tutors with expertise in that area. Tutors may be from the local colleges, teachers in training, or part of our regular staff. This is also a good option for students enrolled in independent study classes who require some additional support.

Individualized Programs: When more than one area needs to be addressed, a specifically designed program can be the answer. Working with a teacher one to one, students receive instruction in a combination of areas, such as reading and spelling, math and written language, reading and study skills. These 1 hour to 1 ½ hour sessions can be scheduled to accommodate students extracurricular activities, and provide support as needed. There is flexibility to help with a particular homework problem, test preparation, or whatever becomes the greatest need. One to two times a week in generally enough to provide skill building and independent learning.

Educational Therapy: The needs of the whole child are delicately considered in educational therapy. It focuses on developing thinking processes as well as basic skills. It can often involve coordination of other professionals in a student's life, such as the Resource Specialist, counselor, or classroom teacher. When self esteem is fragile, there is low frustration tolerance, or tutoring in the past has not worked, educational therapy should be considered. While it is the most expensive of our programs, it is the most effective therapy for students with secondary issues, or those who have experienced failure over a long period of time. Getting specialized instruction and learning strategies from the most highly trained staff can become the turning point for the most challenged students.

Working one to one, students are instructed in the basics of reading, writing, and math with special programs or techniques. This is for students who have additional learning challenges and for whom other methods of intervention have not been successful. Students with learning disabilities or unique learning needs require this level of intervention. To experience success, students must be prepared to spend 80-100 hours in instruction over a relatively short period of time, preferably for four to five days a week. This would take about 4-5 months, or one semester. Depending on the severity of the need, ongoing support may be required, but later needs could be addressed in Educational Therapy.