2/13/08 Reading Response

Chapter 3 provides guidelines that every tutor should follow during each session. While reading the text, I found myself analyzing previous tutoring sessions that were memorable. I’ve realized that the first five minutes of the session will most likely characterize the entire time. For example, when I feel comfortable around a student (and the student feels comfortable around me) the session is much more productive. Creating a relaxed atmosphere is critical for the overall success of the tutoring session. The text states, “The exchange of pleasantries at the beginning of the session helps put the student at ease and gets the session off to a good start.” We should encourage more students to schedule sessions with the same tutor if at all possible, as it would benefit both parties.

Chapter 4 focuses on the importance of the writing process. Each person has his or her own process of writing, which should be replicated each time an essay is assigned. Tutors and teachers should instruct students on the writing process; the writing process is an essential component in creating an above average paper. I like how the text divides the process into three segments: the beginning, middle, and end. All too often I see students in the Writing Center and in the schools completely oblivious to this process. There is a misconception that all pre-writing requires and in-depth outline with Roman numerals and numbers. Prewriting should be a time where students successfully create and organize their thoughts in any manner. Teachers need to provide leniency in the initial stage of writing, which is arguably the most important. Like a house a house with a weak foundation, a paper without proper organization will not stand the test of time.

The two chapters are loaded with content that needs to be discussed. The demeanor of the student and tutor will play a crucial role in determining the success or failure of the tutoring session. Likewise, authors who create memorable papers have likely gone through the entire writing process. In the beginning portion of this class we discusses what good writing is. Each time I think about that question, I come to the conclusion that the writing process is the foundation of for the remaining three viewpoints. Without a going through the necessary steps how can a person be expressive, socially aware, or follow the current traditional emphasis of grammar, syntax, spelling, and such? The root of all writing is the process, which is different for every author and is something that must be personally defined.