Tutor profile: Summer S.

What is a reference interview?

A reference interview is an interrogation interaction which takes place between a reference librarian and a user. The goal of a reference interview is for the librarian to ask open questions of the user to understand the user's information needs. This may include asking questions for clarification and to understand not only the resources the user thinks they are looking for, but also to determine if there are any additional resources the librarian can suggest that would best meet the user's information needs.

What is a gerund and when is it used?

A gerund is the form of a verb that is used when a verb functions as a noun in a sentence. In English, a gerund is created by adding "--ing" to the end of the base verb form. For example, for the verb "to eat," the gerund would be "eating." In the sentence "I love eating," the gerund acts as the object of a sentence.

What are the differences and similarities between a Shakespearian sonnet and a Blank Verse sonnet?

A Shakespearian sonnet is a form of poetry which utilizes iambic pentameter and has a specific rhyme scheme. It is written with an ABAB/CDCD/EFEF/GG rhyme scheme. A Blank Verse sonnet also utilizes iambic pentameter but is not written with a rhyme scheme (end words do not have to rhyme). Both sonnets are fourteen lines in length.