ESL Writers - Great Timing

So I can't help thinking about how much I lucked out with the timing of this ESL writers information. I have not dealt with one ESL writer yet! Everyone says this is amazing to hear because there are so many ESL appointments in the Writing Center.

Anyway, I'd have to agree with Jenna. This week has definitely been a learning experience for me concerning the tutoring of ESL writers. Here are the main points I've learned:

• Meaning is most important
• While reading the paper, put a sign next to an unexpected area or next to an area when you got confused about meaning
• Focus on quality of thought and content
• Explain all corrections as best you can
• Get creative! Use highlighters, sticky notes, diagrams, markers, etc.
• Sometimes you may have to be a little directive because some concepts of English just have to be memorized
  
• Make sure they understand what you're fixing and why

I'm excited to try all of these techniques out and develop some of my own. When we discussed techniques for ESL students in class, I also thought that Lauren's idea of covering the paper so they could dictate what they were really trying to say sounded very effective.

From Writing Across Borders, I was very surprised to see that one in every 10 students are international and/or ESL students. I had no idea... The different techniques from different areas of the world were pretty cool as well - I like seeing how other people write, but I hated seeing how impolite Americans seem to foreigners. It's just sad that we are seen as unwelcoming and rude, especially in the college context.