Tutor for writing

Question

I’m looking for a tutor for my son, a sophomore, who attends Scripps Ranch High in San Diego. He needs help with his writing. He took the PSAT in September and really needs coaching on how to analyze and respond in the reading and writing portion of the test.

Answer 1

Diana,

I agree that you should post a request for a tutor, as suggested in a prior answer to your question. You are asking for some specific help regarding the PSAT. There are some small tricks a good tutor can share on how to scan for the most important bits within a test reading passage. There are simple rules of writing that can work well in these test situations, as well.

When I work with someone in high school or middle school, I first do an informal assessment of their reading and writing levels, then we work on their specific, immediate need. My goal when I tutor is to help the student move beyond the test or paper into a place of having useful tools and an understanding of the reasoning behind the rules.

I hope you find the right tutor for your son. Good luck.

Answer 2

Diana, this is the “Ask An Expert” feature. Your best bet to find a tutor who’s knowledgeable about PSAT/SAT essay requirements is to post a request for such a tutor, either on line or in person.

Answer 3

Tell him to think of a story to tell. Although his life experiences may be a shallow pool to draw upon at this age, he could find one or two nuggets that apply to the topic at hand. In "Amistad," John Quincy Adams revealed that "the lawyer with the best story wins." It's true for school essays, as well.