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Tutoring Guide
Teaching assistants are often asked to work with students one on one to practice
problem-solving, review lessons or give informal tests. Have you ever thought about the best way to prepare for and
conduct these types of
activities? Following are some suggestions for getting the most out of a one-on-one tutoring session.
1. Plan and prepare
- Talk with the student’s teacher before the tutoring session. Learn the objective and find out what the student’s strengths and weaknesses are so you’re prepared to react to them. If a teacher provides you with confidential information about a student, remember to keep the information to yourself.
- Arrange for an environment that is conducive to accomplishing the task. Select appropriate table and chair heights, and make arrangements for any special needs of the student. Make sure there are no distractions and adjust lighting and ventilation, if necessary.
2. Get to know the student
- Always use the student’s first name, and expect the student to address you appropriately. Open the conversation with simple questions about the student’s day, family or favorite free-time activities.
- Listen carefully for clues that might assist you during the session. Be supportive if you know the student is preoccupied with personal problems, but expect him to work with you. Communicate the importance of learning and completing the task.
- Keep the session’s tone light and maintain your sense
of humor to keep you and the student from unnecessary frustrations.
3. Conduct the session
- Explain to the student the objective as outlined by the teacher.
- Have several instructional strategies in your “toolbag” in case things don’t work out as planned. Ask the teacher or your supervisor for assistance if needed.
- Provide plenty of encouragement and praise throughout the session to sustain a “safe” environment for learning
where the student can make mistakes but still feel good about what he’s doing.
- Don’t give the answer; guide the student through the process to find the answer independently.
4. Report to the teacher
- Keep organized notes on each of the tutoring sessions. Jot down the date and time and any observable behaviors, including the student’s performance.
- Report any concerns to the teacher and offer observations about the student’s behavior.
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