The following is a list of some simple do's and don'ts for tutoring in general, with some specifics relating to tutoring writing:
Don't:
-Discuss personal matters.
-Check the time or your cellphone.
-Make corrections to the writing, without explaining them first.
-Use poor body language eg. yawning, rubbing your eyes, stretching.
-Waste time with pleasantries and catching up on what's new in the tutee's life.
-Confuse student with too many questions. Take it slow and focus on one issue at a time.
Do:
-Ask if there is anything specific the tutee is having trouble with.
-Let the student read their writing aloud to see if it sounds right to them.
-Go over the criteria for the assignment to make sure you focus on the task.
-Let the student explain in their own words what the main point or thesis of their piece is.
-Be patient and understand you may have to go over the same issue a few times before the student is comfortable with it.
-Ask open-ended questions, not just yes or no questions.
If we follow these tips and more, then we can became better tutors and also make the most of the tutoring session. This will not only help the student improve, but will instill confidence in their abilities and make it so they are more likely to return in the future if they need our help again.
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These are really excellent do's and dont's, Alan! I like the open-ended questions one...you've clearly moved beyond just understandign what the readings say, and are putting what you've learned from your observations into this.
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