I had the opportunity to observe Pamela during one of her tutoring sessions, where she worked with her student on general English skills. The session was thoughtfully structured, focusing on three key areas: a spelling test, sentence structure, and word definitions.
Pamela began the session with a spelling test, encouraging the student to write each word carefully while emphasizing the importance of understanding common spelling patterns. She provided immediate feedback, which helped the student identify recurring mistakes and learn correct spellings.
The session then transitioned into a focus on sentence structure. Pamela introduced simple sentences and gradually increased complexity. She explained concepts such as subject-verb agreement and the proper use of punctuation. She made the student incorporate words from the spelling test in his sentences to introduce him to some new vocabulary
The final part of the session involved defining words, a practice that combined comprehension with vocabulary building. Pamela encouraged the student to use a dictionary and thesaurus, teaching them how to find meanings independently.
This observation reminded me of the value of foundational skills in education. Focusing on spelling, grammar, and vocabulary not only builds confidence but also equips students with essential tools for lifelong learning. Pamela’s session reaffirmed that effective tutoring is as much about fostering a love for learning as it is about teaching the content.
Joseph Taouk
