student writing support

resources for instructors

sws policies

Because we are an elective resource that relies on student collaboration and trust, we cannot accommodate “required” appointments nor provide instructors with proof that student visits have taken place. Instructors who would like to offer students extra credit for working with an SWS consultant might ask their students to summarize what happened during the session.

Please note that SWS consultants will not work with students on take-home exam essays unless the instructor states in writing on the exam or in the syllabus that it is permissible for students to use our services specifically for these assignments.

informational flyers

Feel free to print and reproduce for your students our informational flyer, which lists all tutoring times and locations. You may also want to distribute our more detailed policies document in order for students to learn more about what to expect and how to get the most from a visit to the Center.

brief in-class visits

Students are more likely to take advantage of SWS’s free services after meeting a member of our staff. Writing consultants are available to visit classes and give brief (10- to 15-minute) presentations about our services. Request a visit with our online brief in-class visit request form.

instructional consultations

Consultants are available to meet individually with instructors about all aspects of teaching with writing.  For more information, please see “consultations” in the teaching with writing portion of this site, or contact Kirsten Jamsen via email or at 612.625.5355.

teaching with writing web resources

All instructors are encouraged to visit the teaching with writing portion of this site, which contains a wealth of resources that help instructors effectively incorporate writing into their courses. Teaching with writing not only includes an expanding compendium of practical suggestions and model materials created by faculty and teaching assistants, but also provides helpful tips on dealing with plagiarism and grading; suggestions for working with non-native speakers; ideas for effective assignment and syllabus design; writing activities; discipline-specific writing help; pedagogical theory; and much more.