Math & Physics Tutoring · Boston

Teaching students to solve problems they haven't seen before.

One-on-one and small-group tutoring, usually in your own home, built around creative problem solving. Students learn to reason through unfamiliar questions instead of memorizing procedures.

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Our approach

More real thinking. Less rote practice.

Textbook drills teach students to follow steps. We teach them what to do when the steps run out: how to explore a problem, test an idea, and build an argument they can stand behind.

Start with a good question

Sessions are built around rich problems that reward curiosity, not worksheets that reward speed.

Reason, don't recite

Students explain why a method works, so they can adapt it when a problem looks different.

Grow independence

The goal is a student who can get unstuck on their own, in class, on tests, and beyond.

Tutoring

Subjects and formats

Math

Mathematics

From building strong foundations to advanced topics and enrichment problems for students who want more challenge.

Physics

From first concepts to challenging problems, with an emphasis on modeling and the math behind the physics.

1:1

One-on-one sessions

Fully tailored to one student's goals, pace and questions.

Group

Small groups

A few students working through problems together. Explaining ideas to peers is one of the best ways to understand them.

At home

Lessons in your home

Most lessons take place in the student's own home. It's convenient for busy families, and students do their best thinking in a space where they feel comfortable.

Our tutors

Experienced teachers who know the math

Every Academic Exponent tutor holds an advanced degree in mathematics and has at least five years of teaching experience. They know where students tend to get stuck, and they help them reason their way through instead of handing over answers.

Advanceddegrees in mathematics
5+ yearsof teaching experience

Our story

Why Academic Exponent

My son attends public school in one of the best districts in Massachusetts. It's rated A+ by Niche, and its schools rank among the best in the nation.

But a great reputation isn't the same as a real challenge. Students who find the work easy are rarely pushed to go further, and kids who never have to struggle never learn to persevere. That ability to stay with a hard problem until it gives way is exactly what they'll need to thrive later on.

We were lucky to find an exceptional tutor who taught students one-on-one and in small groups, and who gave them problems worth wrestling with. Academic Exponent was started to bring that kind of challenge to more students.

— Joshua

Questions

Frequently asked questions

How much does tutoring cost?

A single one-hour session is $120. Packages of sessions lower the hourly rate, and we'll walk you through current package options when we talk.

What ages do you work with?

We work mainly with students from 4th grade through high school. If you have a younger student, reach out and we'll talk through options.

Where do you tutor?

Most lessons take place in your home. We serve most towns in the Boston area, including Brookline, Newton, Wellesley, Needham, Weston, Belmont and Arlington. If you don't see your town, just ask.

How is this different from RSM, Kumon or Mathnasium?

Our focus is on deep understanding of the foundations and on strong reasoning skills, not rote practice. Working one-on-one or in small groups lets us meet each student where they are and help them reach their full potential.

The problems are genuinely challenging. Homework might be only three questions, but don't let that fool you. This is real thinking.

Can you help with math competitions, honors classes and the SAT?

Absolutely. We train students specifically for math competitions, and our tutors have competed at a high level themselves and coached teams to top placements.

Success in high school math and on the SAT depends on truly understanding the fundamentals. We don't teach students to memorize; we help them understand. Once they do, they're set up to succeed.

How do we get started?

If you think Academic Exponent might be right for your student, get in touch to book a discounted first lesson. It includes an initial assessment, so you can see whether it's a good fit before you commit.

When are sessions, and how often?

Sessions take place after school or on weekends and usually run one to two hours, depending on your student's age and goals. Most students meet with us once a week.

Who will be coming into our home?

All of our tutors are experienced teachers with advanced degrees in mathematics, and every one of them passes regular CORI background checks.

How will we know it's working?

We send parents a progress report every quarter, measured against the goals set for each student.

Get in touch

Tell us about your student

Share a little about what your student is working on and what you're hoping for. We'll reply within two business days to set up a conversation.

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