Tutoring

Chapter 13

Benefits and Drawbacks of Tutoring

Benefits:Tailored to a student’s individual strengths and needsOffers instant feedbackCan be especially effective for English learners

Drawback:Can be costly to school districts, who may rely on uncertified volunteers instead

Conditions for Effective Tutoring

Tutoring is based on class instruction and assessment; maybe also Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).Tutors are well trained and receive continual training.Students are tutored at least three times per week.Tutors develop a rapport with tutees.Programs are well implemented.

Responsibilities of a Reading SpecialistProvide individualized reading and writing instructionProvide assessmentDiagnose reading problems and recommend appropriate interventionsServe as a resource for the school districtProvide professional development at the local and state levelsTrain paraprofessionalsProvide leadership in student advocacy

Guidelines for Paraprofessional TutorsTutors:

should be trained by certified reading specialistsneed ongoing training and feedbackmust be reliable and punctualshould use high-quality instructional materials

The child should work with the same tutor in each session.A certified specialist should be present during sessions to answer questions, provide input.

(continued)

Guidelines for Paraprofessional Tutors, continued

Tutoring sessions need to be structured.The reading specialist needs to assess the tutee on a regular basis.Tutoring session instruction must coordinate with classroom instruction.

Lesson Plans for Tutoring Sessions Should Consist of . . .

Written objectivesConsistent sequence/formatAppropriate materialsReflection on the lesson

Tutoring Session Format for a 45-Minute Session

Easy reading (10 minutes)Rereading of instructional material (5 minutes)Word study (10 minutes)Writing (5 to 10 minutes)Introducing and reading new book at student’s instructional level (10 to 15 minutes)

Lesson Plan for Tutoring

Characteristics of Effective Tutors for English Learners

Are culturally sensitiveUnderstand second language acquisitionUnderstand difference between oral and academic proficiencyBuild English learners’ confidence so they are comfortable in class discussions and activities

Sample Lesson Plan for a First-Grade English Learner

Helping Tutees Tackle Challenging Words

More Reflections on Tutoring

Did you ever need special tutoring in a subject you were struggling with? How was the experience? Was it useful? Did it help you learn the subject and understand the material?Were you embarrassed at being singled out for needing extra help?How can help your students enjoy the tutoring experience and be motivated to want to learn more?