Writing Center
Writing Just Got Easier
Peer Tutor
Training Program
Getting Started
Writing is a challenge for everyone. No matter whether we know a little or a lot about how to write, we can all benefit from talking to someone about a draft. The goal of the Writing Center is simple: to help students become better writers.
We can assist students with grammar, essay writing, thesis statements, APA Style, basic creative writing concepts, scriptwriting, resumes, cover letters, and ESL. Students can schedule one-hour online or on-campus appointments with peer tutors.
An effective tutor demonstrates some of the following qualities: ability to listen carefully, ability to explain concepts clearly, positive outlook, patience, empathy, sense of humor, time management skills, and punctuality.
Basic Appointment Procedure
1. If the student has provided work in advance, review it before the appointment.
2. Get acquainted with the student. What have their writing experiences been?
How comfortable are they with the writing process? What do they wish to accomplish during the appointment?
3. Gain an understanding of the assignment requirements.
4. Address global concerns within the paper first.
5. Address local concerns within the paper next (refer to the next few pages to learn about global and local concerns).
6. Offer feedback that pertains to the student’s specific goals for the paper.
7. Offer feedback in areas where the student may not realize he/she needs help.
8. Review the main points of discussion at the end of the session.
9. Offer links to resources the student can refer to after the appointment.
10. Invite the student to fill out the Writing Center evaluation survey for online appointments.
11. Fill out the appointment consultation form. If the student did not show up, email the coordinator.
| Always... | Never... |
|---|---|
Encourage open communication |
Complete a student's work |
Point out good aspects of a paper |
Proofread a student's work |
Provide grammar usage rules |
Allow for distractions during a session |
Provide examples when needed |
Tell a student they should earn a certain grade |
Ask open ended questions |
Ask "yes" or "no" questions |
Be honest if you don't know an answer |
Pretend to know an answer when you're unsure |
Provide suggestions for revision |
Make value judgments based on student's work |