Antony Wootten

My lessons are structured according to the needs of the student. For instance, they might start with a spelling activity if appropriate to the student's needs, followed by grammar or punctuation activities. As much as possible, I like to make these into games or challenges. I would usually also include a longer writing activity where we would focus on a specific type of writing - be it story-writing, letters, information texts, discursive arguments, etc - and work together to draft a piece employing the spelling, grammar and punctuation skills covered earlier in the lesson. I also like to set targets for the student to achieve over a longer period such as a half term.

For secondary school students, I can work to a text they might be covering in school or need to revise for an exam.

With the consent of the student and their parents/carers, I would set homework so that the student can practise what we've covered in a more independent task. I do allow some time for independent work in the lessons, but it always seems a waste of resources to spend too much time on independent work when you are paying for the input of a tutor! However, I am sensitive to the need for the child to have time to relax in their spare time, and I wouldn't set homework if they are already receiving plenty from school.