English Tutoring Tips

The following was taken directly out of the Instructional Assistant Manual for Miramar Community College.

IA Tutoring Philosophy•
IAs have the students self-diagnose (as much as possible)
IAs are not editors and should not fix every error in student work
IAs do not need to review an entire assignment or essay. It is perfectly acceptable to review
just one part of an assignment.
IAs should have students verbally summarize the session
IAs want to help students become better writers, readers, and have better study skills

Helpful Tips for Instructional Assistants
1) Be patient.
2) Keep in mind that the student's first language might not be English.
3) Don't assume you understand the student's intended meaning. Always ask the students
what they meant to write before suggesting changes.
4) Encourage students to think for themselves.
5) Ask questions; don't simply give answers.
6) Help students set clear and obtainable goals. Set students up for success.
7) Focus on where a student’s work can improve rather than point out errors.
8) When addressing errors, focus on patterns of error. Focusing on one or two patterns is
more manageable for a student than attempting to correct every error.
9) Encourage students to ask questions about their own work. Help them take ownership and
responsibility for their ideas and their writing.
10) Treat students as if their ideas are important. Talk with them, not at them.

Our Mantra
Keep in mind that we are a caring community of communicators but not mind-reading
miracle-workers!