Tutor profile: Alezandria L.

For this I would ask the writer to share some of their work with me and ask guiding questions depending on subject/context. If the argument was unclear or weak, I would ask them to say their point to me without looking at what they wrote. If ideas were confusing, I would have them reverse outline with me. If the thesis were unclear, I would have them draft one with me. I don't have an example Q&A for this scenario though. My approach is prompting and writing what the writer tells me so we accumulate thoughts and notes to clarify the writing.

See above response.

Let's observe the compound NaCl. Start by describing the atoms for me. How many many protons, neutrons, and electrons are present based on the atoms' descriptions on the periodic table? How many valence electrons does each atom have? What kind of bond is this; how can you tell? What groups do each of the atoms belong to?

Na: p+=11, n=12 (AMU-protons=neutrons: 23-11), e-=11 (electrons=protons for neutral atom), 1 valence electron, alkali metal Cl: p+=17, n=18 (35-17), e-=17, 7 valence electrons, halogen Ionic bond; using the respective electronegativity values Cl=3.16 and Na=0.93, we can subtract and get a value of 2.23; because the value is greater than 2.1, the bond would be classified as ionic.

Evaluate 2x-3y=7 for the x and y intercepts.

This problem helps the student associate the relationship between the graph points and equation. Solving for the x-intercept requires that the y-value be zero such that the point be on the x-axis. So, 2x-3(0)=7 rearranges to 2x=7 or x=3.5. Solving for the y-intercept requires the x-value to be zero such that the point be on the y-axis. So, 2(0)-3y=7 rearranges to -3y=7 or y= -7/3. This question can then branch off to draw a line, solve for parallel/perpendicular lines, and other graph evaluation. It opens the door for further questions about graphs and manipulation of lines and equations.