What types of tutoring services are offered?
We offer free help for 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 currently enrolled at SMC.
How do I make an appointment?
All appointments are made online. To schedule an appointment, go to www.smc.edu/esl/tutoringcalendar. If you need help making your appointment, please come to the ESL office (ESL106).
How often can 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 short intersessions (winter and summer). Available hours are designed to accommodate both our daytime 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
Workshops:
What: How to use eCompanion/eCollege, presented by Keith Graziadei
When: Friday, February 26, 2010, 1-2p.m.
Where: LIB192 (computer lab downstairs)
What: Preparing for the Common Essay, presented by Julia Morgan
When: Friday, April 30, 2010, 11:30-12:30
Where: ESL105
Conversation Exchange Program:
The CEP, co-sponsored by the the ESL and Modern Languages and Cultures departments and supported by funding from the SMC Global Council, is a unique opportunity for students learning a second language to converse weekly with a native speaker of that language on topics regarding culture. Brochures and applications are distributed by instructors in both departments to their students, and enrollment is limited.
Conversation Groups (Spring 2010):
What: Conversation Group, led by an ESL Dept tutor
When: TBD (inquire in ESL106)
Where: ESL123
Counseling: Spring 2010 drop-in counseling hours are held in ESL121
Mon 3:30-5p.m.
Tues 5-6:30p.m.
Wed 10:30a.m.-12:00p.m.
Thurs 11:45a.m.-1:15p.m.
