Chapter 13

Tutoring

Benefits and Drawbacks of Tutoring

Benefits:
Tailored to a students individual strengths
and needs
Offers instant feedback
Can 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 Specialist

Provide individualized reading and writing
instruction
Provide assessment
Diagnose reading problems and recommend
appropriate interventions
Serve as a resource for the school district
Provide professional development at the local and
state levels
Train paraprofessionals
Provide leadership in student advocacy

Guidelines for Paraprofessional Tutors

Tutors:
should be trained by certified reading specialists
need ongoing training and feedback
must be reliable and punctual
should 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 objectives
Consistent sequence/format
Appropriate materials
Reflection 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 students
instructional level (10 to 15 minutes)

Lesson Plan for Tutoring

Characteristics of Effective Tutors

for English Learners
Are culturally sensitive
Understand second language acquisition
Understand difference between oral and
academic proficiency
Build 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?