Next new Tutor Training Session Schedule
New Jersey has one of the largest immigrant populations in the country, with 13% of its residents born outside the United States. Currently, LVMC students represent over 60 different countries. Many of these adults are unable to obtain jobs, or if they do, they are often under-employed, either working part-time, or working at jobs far beneath their level of education and experience.
In addition, approximately 12% of adults living in Morris County read at the lowest level of literacy. 5% of adults in the country have less than an 8th grade education, and 13% of adults have less than a high school education. These adults may be unable to fill in a job application, read a newspaper, or understand their electric bill. Even adults who have finished high school often have difficulty reading or writing that impedes upon their ability to work, raise a family, and participate in their community.
For many of these people, the one-on-one tutoring offered by Literacy Volunteers is their only opportunity to learn to read, write or speak English.
Volunteers work either with one student or a small group of students and help them to realize their goals. Many of life's simple achievements require proficiency in English and volunteers work to help students reach these milestones. Examples of these goals might be: Passing a licensing exam, being able to visit a doctor, handle an emergency, or speak to a child's teacher.
Volunteer Requirements
LVMC accepts volunteers over 18 years of age who
- either live or work in Morris County,
- have graduated from high school,
- speak English with native fluency, and
- are willing to meet with a student in Morris County.
We provide all training and materials. No previous teaching experience is required - just a desire to help, and the ability to spend one hour a week with a student.
Commitment
We ask that tutors meet with their student for at least one hour a week. This hour can be in the morning, afternoon, evening, during the week or on weekends - the tutor can set the time and place. We ask that tutors and students meet in the library or other quiet public place.
Training
LVMC offers workshops that all volunteers must attend in order to learn how to teach Basic Literacy and English as a Second Language to adults. The workshop covers:
- Practical advice on getting started
- Designing a lesson plan
- Role playing and practice teaching
Teaching Resources
The LVMC office maintains a library available to tutors for use with their learners. Our materials are specifically designed to be used with adult learners. We have both Basic Literacy and ESL materials. The library includes picture dictionaries, workbooks, readers, grammar books, and easy to read periodicals. There is also a large collection of recorded books and several tape players which can be borrowed.
The Rewards
Both tutors and students benefit from the time they spend together. Students find their lives are enriched as they learn to read, write, and speak English. Tutors are rewarded by knowing they have helped their student learn and grow.
For information about our next training workshop, Please call us at (973) 984-1998 , email us at lvamorris@yahoo.com, or go to Upcoming Events
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