Chapter 7-9 Bedford Writing Guide for Tutors

     I really appreciate having the information in chapter seven.  In fact, I used the checklist for my fiance's resume, and will soon be using the information about cover letters to help him write a cover letter.  I also didn't know that lab reports and scientific papers preferred the passive voice.  I also had never been told that using the present tense to describe literature was the correct tense to use.  I have had trouble with changing tenses, and asked people when to use what, and never gotten a specific response like that.  

     I had to edit a word in the first sentence, second paragraph of chapter eight.  It should read, "You will often encounter writers who come for help just before their paper is due."  I have experienced each of the tutoring situations before except for inappropriate topic / offensive language.  Slightly close to this, I've experienced the uncomfortably personal topic that still fits the assignment.  It is really hard to work on a paper when it is so uncomfortable to read aloud.  I also think all their scenarios are funny.  Also, their advise is relevant, but you couldn't pull the book out in the situation.  You'll also react differently, even if only slightly, with each client.  Also, I don't know why, but every time their tutor says "what I'm hearing" I just want to smack him or her.  I know what their saying, and it's fine to say it, but those specific words just seem rude to me.  This is a perfect example of why you'll react differently to each person, because everyone interprets things differently.  

     I am glad that at the end of the book they acknowledged that everyone will develop their own philosophy and style of tutoring.  One of their assignments sounded close to what we have to do for the tutor of the year award.