Jerry LaSala Tutoring

Jerry LaSala Tutoring Services

I'm Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Southern Maine. I have taught physics, astronomy, chemistry and math at both college and high school levels for over 50 years. I have a BA in Physics and Astronomy from Yale, an MS in Physics from Rutgers, and a PhD in Physics from Dartmouth. In addition to teaching at the college and university level for over 40 years, I have also taught physics, astronomy, chemistry and mathematics at the high school level for 50 years, including 43 years teaching at the Phillips Exeter Academy Summer School.

When I was in grad school, one of my classmates described how our favorite professor taught: "He makes you feel as if he's reminding you of something you already knew." I've ever since thought of this as the very definition of excellent teaching. I try always to relate new knowledge to my students' existing knowledge, experience, and everyday life. I bring this approach to tutoring as well, helping students relate new and sometimes challenging ideas to their current knowledge and experience. I also always try to make my teaching entertaining and fun for the students. Yes, physics can be fun!

As a physics professor, much of what I teach is the logical approach to solving problems. Not just physics problems, but math problems, and indeed problems of all sorts that arise in everyday life. In addition, I try to inspire students with a love of learning new things and working to master new skills. One of the great joys of teaching is seeing the "Aha!" moment when a student gains a new understanding of something that had been confusing or mysterious.

My decades of experience teaching wide variety of physical science and math courses at all levels has helped me to see the places where students have difficulties and how to help them overcome those difficulties and master the new material. I can tutor any high school physics, chemistry, astronomy, physical science or math course, as well as college astronomy, physics and mathematics including calculus.

I offer online and in-person tutoring in all these subjects and tailor my sessions to the particular questions and needs of the individual student. My schedule is flexible, so I can arrange tutoring sessions that are convenient. Contact me to see how I can help you and schedule some sessions.

email: [email protected]

phone: (207) 776-4345