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1. Look for similar errors and
discuss all of them at one time (Capossela 49-50).
If a student has several comma errors, you can
explain the necessary comma rules and then point out one of the errors
that he has made. You can then ask the student to go back through his
paper to find other similar problems. In this way, you can help the
student recognize the problem in the future. As Capossela writes, “The
problem will seem more manageable if he realizes there are only four
types of errors rather than forty individual errors” (50).
 Key
Idea
Often students make errors because they have
misconceptions about style, grammar and punctuation. Asking them to
explain their rationale will help you to understand why they punctuated as
they did and help you to debunk their misconceptions.
2. Explain, in everyday language, the
logic behind the rules (Capossela 50).
When you ask students why they put a comma
where they did, the most common response is, “I don’t know, I just
did.” Often students do not know the rules
behind the usage, but once they do, they can master punctuation. One of
your goals is to explain the rules and to encourage students to learn
the ones they use most.
Key Idea
Rules exist to benefit the reader and to aid in
communication.
3. Be a role model.
Do
not hesitate to let a student know that you do not know everything. If
you have a question, you and the student can search for the answer.
Handbooks should be readily available; and even the professors resort to
them to answer questions! And don't forget that Writing Center
Directors, faculty, and other tutors are also valuable resources.
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