In this course, students will have an opportunity to
implement the theories they learn about teaching writing in actual interactions
with students. The course will begin by exploring the evolution of theories
about teaching writing over the last several decades and how those theories
have impacted theories and practices about tutoring writing. Readings and
discussions will address practical approaches for helping students at all
stages of the writing process, including invention, organization, grammar, as well
as writing for different genres and in different disciplines. The complex
teacher/tutor/student relationship will also be a focus as students will be
asked to reflect on how to incorporate their own style into the
teaching/tutoring dynamic. Throughout the semester, we will draw connections
between tutoring writing in a one-on-one interaction and teaching writing in a
classroom setting. Students will work several hours each week in UHM’s Writing
Center through which students will gain actual tutoring experience. Collectively,
the work students do in class and in the center will provide a departure point
for examinations of how place figures
into the teaching of writing.
Because this course involves a 5 hour/wk paid tutoring
position, students need to apply to enroll. For application materials, please
contact the instructor at georgann@hawaii.edu
Assignments:
- Weekly responses to readings
- 5-7 page mid-term paper
synthesizing theories for composition teaching practices with writing
center theory/practices - 10-page final paper that,
drawing from the tutoring log, situates/critiques tutoring practices
employed within both composition and writing center theory - An in-class presentation that
involves leading class discussion on readings /tutoring practices - Tutoring observations
- Tutoring
- Journal log on tutoring
interactions
Attendance is
required in this class.
Required Texts:
Murphy, Christina, and Steve Sherwood. The St. Martin’s
Sourcebook for Writing Tutors. 4th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s,
2011.
Ryan, Leigh, and Lisa Zimmerelli. The Bedford Guide for
Writing Tutors. 5th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2010.
Additional
readings will be provided via a course packet or uploaded to a class website.