Introduction
Effective time management and session structure are critical for successful K–12 tutoring. Whether working one-on-one or in a small group, a tutor must plan and pace a 60-minute session to maximize student engagement and productivity. This module will explore how to break a tutoring hour into balanced segments of review, instruction, guided practice, and independent work. We will also address strategies for juggling multiple students working on different subjects simultaneously in a learning center environment. With consistent routines and smart use of tools (computers, whiteboards, pencil/paper), tutors can keep every student active and minimize downtime. By structuring sessions thoughtfully, tutors ensure each student receives focused support and stays on task from the session’s start to finish (studentsupportaccelerator.org and files.eric.ed.gov).
Objectives
By the end of this module, tutors will be able to:
- Plan a structured 60-minute tutoring session that includes clear phases (warm-up review, instruction, practice, wrap-up) aligned with the student’s learning objectives.
- Optimize time management and transitions between activities to minimize downtime and maximize student “time on task,” thereby increasing academic engagement (files.eric.ed.gov).
- Implement flexible pacing strategies to accommodate different ages, subjects, and skill levels – for example, adjusting segment lengths or incorporating short breaks to maintain attention.
- Manage multiple students in a group setting effectively, by organizing individualized tasks and rotating one-on-one attention so that each student receives support without others sitting idle.
- Utilize tutoring tools (computers, whiteboards, pencil and paper) to support session flow – e.g. using a whiteboard for quick demonstrations, or a computer-based activity to keep one student engaged while you work with another – thereby juggling students and activities efficiently.