CC ELA Resource Center

How does a tutor begin?

When you are paired with a student (or multiple), get started by reaching out to their parent/guardian immediately! This can be done via email, text, or phone call. Schedule a time for the two of you to talk and gather information to plan for tutoring! Here are some things to consider or questions to ask:

• What specific time you will be meeting the student for tutoring (set a consistent schedule)

• What topics the student is currently learning in school

• The level of interest that your student has in learning a language

• Any particular interests or skills that the student has, especially that could influence lesson planning

• If the student has a learning disability, best strategies to work together

• How often you will communicate with each other

  • Note: It is incredibly important that you stay in touch with the parent on a regular basis!

It is always a good idea to start with a flexible and low-stress plan for the first day of tutoring! Come in to this day with two goals in mind: first, to develop a connection between you and your student. Keep inventory of their interests (like space for example) because in the future, you could find activities that combine their interests with the new language. Second, figure out their skill level! See below for some ideas on how to do that.

Running a diagnostic test early on is critical! Watch the video to find out more :)

What's the Path of an ELA Student?

How do You Find Your Structure or Format?

Planning and presenting all your lessons on one platform or medium can help create consistency and stability. Pick a platform that is easy to follow, allows for creativity, and feels right for you. If you come up with a better way, go for it! Historically, one template that works well is Zoom Screensharing paired with Google Slides. That could be a good place to start. Here's the example presentation: