Before I start teaching, I prefer to ask both the parent or guardian of the student and the student, what they are currently learning in school. Or what they are currently struggling with over email and then I prepare my lesson accordingly. I will ask the student a few questions about the subject as well, to gage how proficient they are in the subject already. Then I will explain vocabulary and key concepts, give out questions about said topic. and finally review what they did and did not understand.