Tutoring FAQS:
- What types of tutoring services are offered?
We offer free help for SMC ESL students with: grammar and homework questions, developing topic sentences and thesis statements, essay organization and coherency, essay revision (2nd drafts), and conversation and pronunciation.
- Who is eligible?
We provide individual tutoring free of charge to all non-native speakers of English currently enrolled at SMC.
- How do I make an appointment?
Appointments are made online. To schedule an appointment, go to www2.smc.edu/esl/tutoringcalendar. If you need help making your appointment, please come to the ESL office (ESL106). We also offer drop-in tutoring for students who have a quick question (5-10 minutes). Inquire at ESL106 for days/times.
- How often may I have an appointment?
You may make one or two appointments per week. Appointments generally last 30 minutes per visit.
- How should I prepare for my appointment?
The tutors can help you with any aspect of your English/ESL coursework, but they do not have prepared lessons. You should bring any class materials or assignments that you would like help with. Think of specific questions that you want answers to.
- Can I meet with a tutor without an appointment?
Yes, you may meet with a tutor, IF one is available, for a 10-minute session. Check with the secretary (ESL106) for availability.
- Where do I meet with my tutor?
Tutors meet students in the ESL building (corner of 16th and Pearl Streets) in Room 120 or Room 121. The secretary (ESL 106) can direct you to your tutor. You should plan to arrive a few minutes early for your session.
- How do I cancel an appointment?
Cancellations should be made at least 24 hours in advance and are made online at the same site where you schedule an appointment.
- When are the tutors available?
We offer tutoring throughout the school year, including the intersessions (winter and summer). Available hours are designed to accommodate both our day and evening students.
- Who are the tutors?
The ESL Department tutors are highly-trained specialists with advanced degrees. They are familiar with our courses and the assignments that our instructors require. They can also direct students to resources for self-study and further language learning.
Tutoring Program Faculty Leader: Janet Harclerode; email harclerode_janet@smc.edu
Spring 2012 Workshops:
What: How to use eCompanion/eCollege, presented by Keith Graziadei
When: Friday, Feb 24th, 11:30-12:30 and Thursday, Mar 8th, 11:30-12:30
Where: Library 192
What: Email Etiquette, presented by Shawna Courter and Matthew Stivener
When: Friday, Feb 24th, 1:00-2:00
Where: Library 192
What: Apps for iPhones and iPads, presented by Keith Graziadei
When: Thursday, Mar 22nd, 11:30-12:30
Where: Library 192
ESL/ML&C Depts Conversation Exchange Program:
The Conversation Exchange, sponsored by the ESL and Modern Languages & Cultures departments and the International Ed Center, is a unique opportunity for ESL students to converse weekly with a native English speaker. Students are matched in pairs or small groups based on their language backgrounds and availability. Once a match is made, students themselves are expected to decide the times/location that they will meet to practice their language skills.
If you are interested, please fill out an online form by clicking here.
Faculty coordinator: Stivener_Matthew@smc.edu
ESL Dept Conversation Groups:
What: Conversation Group, guided by native English speakers and ESL tutors
When: Every Friday during regular semesters, 12-1
Where: ESL103