Ahiru

Chris was totally professional right from the start and I really felt like he was a teacher in the room with me. My problem is easily drifting into crazy banter in english as I have with friends but Chris kept me on task the whole time and has excellent lesson plans. We covered a lesson plan that he sent me through google docs and can control it on my screen what answers he shows or hides. He started with pronunciation of all the german sounds and basic phrases and made sure I understood everything and that I was pronouncing every correctly. So glad ive started using this method!

I recommend this teacher. Without knowing the criteria for judging Good versus Excellent, I am having a hard time deciding between the two. My session with this teacher was an introduction for us both, so it's too early to share his strengths in depth. It is clear that he calculates the appropriateness of future lessons based on what he hears, and it forthright about his ideas and gets learner input. He is gentle in guiding the learner in the accurate direction. For example, I mixed up my direct and indirect objects despite knowing what they are quite well. Rather than telling me I was wrong, he used an element of curiosity to get me to come about and reverse my statement. This particular session was audio-only, which can have its advantages and disadvantages, with texting via Skype. I recommend this teacher.

I had a lesson with Ahiru and was very impressed. He is incredibly attentive and quickly identified areas where I needed improvement. His deep understanding of grammar helped clarify some tricky concepts, making the lesson both structured and insightful. What stood out to me was his broad erudition—he not only explained the language clearly but also provided interesting cultural and historical context that made learning more engaging. His patient and encouraging approach made the session enjoyable and productive. Even after just one lesson, I can see that Ahiru is a highly knowledgeable and dedicated teacher. I would definitely consider more lessons in the future!

Seems to be much more organized than other italki instructors I have used. Wants to make good use of the time we have...

Chris is a great tutor. He is very patient and helps you improve. But he is also kind and meets you where you are.

Chris is one of the best speaking partners there. Compared to many other instructors, you can feel that he is really trying his best to listen to you and keep the discussion exciting. Always enjoying lessons with him as if it is a chat with an old friend.