Blog 4: Chapter 12

Lindemann states in Chapter 12 that "Simply reading the paper aloud to a partner, who then might describe briefly one meritorious detail, would be an important first step" (196). Here he is talking about revising drafts of papers. The act of reading the paper aloud helps 'hear' the mistakes written. As we were discussing in class on Monday, going word for word exposes areas that need improvement. At Los Angeles Southwest College, the tutors of the Writing Lab require students to read their essays out loud. Often times, they find their own mistakes and mark their own edits. I find that the students who become 'regulars' at the Writing Lab and participate in one-on-one tutoring sessions with these expectations do a little better every single time. More importantly, having someone hear their words and give suggestions with an open disposition gives students the courage to keep returning. Their self-esteem is given a boost.