Phrases for Conversation

ESL tutors and teachers frequently talk too much, and I'm as guilty of this as any of you!  English learners may struggle to understand us and don't get enough speaking practice when we go on and on.  That being said, the ESL tutor or teacher may be the learner's best role model and mentor for English conversation.  Through our experience, we know how to talk to a learner much better than the average native speaker they meet, and also better than their fellow English learners.  Practical conversation is something most of our clients enjoy, and every tutoring session should include speaking and listening.  Your learner may enjoy subject specific conversations.  For ideas, check out this web-site
http://www.eslgold.com/speaking/phrases.html

Writing Tutor Tips

From What the Writing Tutor Needs to Know by Margot Iris Soven (108-109)

v  Give equal amounts of sympathy and encouragement.  ESL students deal with more than just writing.

v  Rephrase comments that confuse students.  If the student doesn’t get what you are trying to say, try rephrasing your comments instead of repeating yourself.

v  Notice students’ expressions and body language. As with any tutee, body language helps you see if the students are confused.

v  Brush up on your grammar.  Although you don’t need to be an expert, many ESL students want deeper explanations of how and why grammar works.

v  Watch for plagiarism.  This doesn’t necessarily happen on purpose.  In some cultures borrowing from other sources is accepted.

v  Be patient.  You will probably need to devote more time to an ESL student because you will need to explain things more thoroughly.