Tutors in Math & Reading

Tips for Reading with a Child

1. Find a quiet place to read. Sit beside your reading buddy.

2. Get to know the child. Ask questions like:

Do you like to read?

What is your favorite type of book to read?

Tell me your favorite things to do when you aren’t at school.

(This is a perfect opening for you to tell the child about yourself.)

What do you like most/least about school?

3. If possible, read the story/chapter before meeting with the child.

4. Spark interest in the book by...

* Being excited about reading with the student.

*Showing the cover of the book to the reader.

*Reading the title of the book to the child.

*Introducing the story.

“This story is about a little girl named Mary who is your age. Mary has lots of friends. One day she and some of her friends did something very silly. Let’s read and find out what they did.”

5. Look for opportunities to share with the child things that he/she does well.

“Wow! I can tell that you love books. I like the gentle way you turn the pages."
“You read that sentence with such excitement. It sounded like it really happened to you! Good job.”

Tips for Math Tutors
Adapted from Guidelines for the Tutor of Mathematics
Successful tutoring, like teaching is not an exact science; it is based on thorough planning and good communication between teacher, student, and tutor. The rewards of continued, consistent effort by all are enthusiastic learners who are more competent and confident in their math skills.

Thank you for volunteering your time and talent to make a difference in the lives of our students. We are very grateful!

Planning:
Consult teacher to determine:
1. Objectives for the student to master
2. Objectives taught previously
3. Location of resource materials
4. Quiet place to work
5. Learning style of student
6. Student's interests

Conducting the Session:
1. Create a positive atmosphere and develop a rapport with student.
2. Review previously taught skills (if necessary for day's lesson).
3. State and model the objective for the session. Relate it to the real world.
4. Use manipulatives or hands-on materials.
5. When checking work, let student make corrections with your guidance.
(Avoid picking up the pencil unnecessarily.)
6. Prompt the student to explain his thought processes.
7. Keep your student informed about his or her progress. Praise often!
8. Encourage student to verbalize or demonstrate learned skill.
9. End the session on a positive note.

Following up on the Session:
Report progress and evaluation to the student's teacher. t