MONTES methodology
Understanding mathematics, strengthening self-confidence – how I work with children and young people
Understanding mathematics – strengthening self-confidence
MONTES nurtures mathematical potential
Every child has a natural sense for numbers, quantities, patterns and relationships. With maths tuition grounded in learning psychology and brain science, this potential can unfold – towards solid foundations in mathematics, confident calculation and improved abstract thinking.
Dialogue fosters thinking
Following the Socratic method, MONTES nurtures genuine joy in learning: through questions, curiosity and experimentation, motivation grows instead of pressure – learning becomes free of fear and self‑directed. In this way, lasting understanding and trust in one’s own abilities emerge.
Maths tuition that makes success enjoyable
In my maths tuition I create an atmosphere of safety, concentration and being taken seriously. Calm support, clear structure and small, incremental steps lead to “aha” moments and the joy of success achieved independently.
Using memorable examples and targeted repetition, mathematics becomes understandable, logical thinking is strengthened and learning feels easy. Instead of frustration, curiosity and enjoyment in the “maths game” emerge.
Maths tuition as a process with your child or teenager
Foundation
Assess learning level
At the beginning, the learning level is assessed in line with the curriculum. This makes it possible to define reference and learning goals. I also look at what is special about the child or teenager in order to create favourable conditions for learning and for our working relationship.
Development
Building understanding
Understanding goes beyond mere perception or memory and therefore is not deepened by rote learning alone. Suddenly grasping a solution path is like finding a way out and is rewarded with a joyful “aha”. That feeling attaches itself to the new, welcome piece of information – something you will gladly remember.
Consolidation
Consolidating confidence
Through exercises that build on one another, topics become interconnected. Using growing knowledge to tackle new tasks creates moments of success and increasing trust in one’s own abilities. Step by step, maths frustration turns into enjoyment of maths.
My pedagogical principles
Calm and structure
With calm and structure, the maths tuition offers a learning climate that promotes clarity, concentration and a sense of security.
Individual support
In my maths tuition, the approach is guided by the learner’s personality, learning style and situation.
Transparency for parents
From lesson to lesson, parents can follow the learning process through the tasks and comments. At the same time, it is important to allow the child a degree of autonomy in this process to foster independence. Depending on progress or planning (for example holidays), an exchange with parents is very welcome. Mutual input and relevant information can set the learning process in motion positively and sustainably.
Sustainability
In my maths tuition, sustainability means understanding relationships rather than memorising formulae. This makes it possible to build interconnected thinking and knowledge. It provides a sense of security, joy in learning and reduces harmful maths frustration. Over time, a stable base of knowledge develops, and with it grows the courage to face new challenges. Learning becomes more effective and efficient, because new problems can be analysed and tackled more easily.
Independent. Responsible. Attentive. Curious. Goal‑oriented.
Online interaction: advantages for maths tuition
Organisational
- Flexible choice of times, including evenings or at short notice.
- No time lost travelling; that time can be used for leisure or household tasks.
- Parents can join quickly when needed.
- Tuition is possible from anywhere.
- Better planning for parents (no lifts or driving duties needed).
Didactical
- Online MONTES maths tuition uses an interactive whiteboard, screen sharing and a “learning toolkit”. Online, simultaneous access to maths software such as GeoGebra or emulated calculators is possible. Learning videos (YouTube, Sofatutor) and AI tools are also integrated directly. This makes it easier to interlink the various topics – fully in line with the Lehrplan 21.
- Tasks and solutions remain stored digitally – ideal for revision, targeted practice and error analysis.
- Learning in a familiar home environment: pupils often find it easier online to ask questions and take part actively.
- The online maths coaching is tailored to the requirements of the Zurich grammar school entrance exams (ZAP 1; ZAP 2).
- Online maths tuition strengthens not only subject knowledge and ability to express ideas, but also technical skills that are important at grammar school and later at university or ETH.