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Frequently Asked Questions about the Writing Center
Why do we have a Writing Center?
The primary goal of the Writing Center is to help you become a stronger writer. There are many ways the Writing Center can do this. First, we know your writing skills will develop more quickly if you write for a wider audience. Second, your writing will improve when you talk about your assignments one-on-one with an experienced reader. Finally, it's important that all students enrolled in a writing course at WCC (ENG 111, for example) share a core of common writing experiences. The Writing Center assignments provide that common core.
Why does ENG 000 appear on my Student Schedule?
You are enrolled in an English writing course that has a required Writing Center component. The English course (ENG 050, 051, 067, 091, 100, or 111) appears on your schedule and so does the Writing Center component, ENG 000.
Do I have to come to the Writing Center during my scheduled time?
No. After orientation, which takes place the first week of each semester, you can come to the Writing Center whenever it is open. The Writing Center hours are included in your Writing Center Guide.
Will the instructor take attendance in the Writing Center?
No. The instructor will not take attendance.
What do I have to purchase for the Writing Center?
You need to purchase the Writing Center Manual that corresponds to your English class. For example, if you are registered in ENG 091, buy the Writing Center Manual for ENG 091. Writing Center Manuals are available in the bookstore on the first floor of the Student Center Building and at Campus Book and Supply in Ypsilanti. You'll also need paper, a pen or pencil, and a floppy disk if you want to use the computers on campus to save your Writing Center work.
What should I write on the cover of my Writing Center Workbook and on each assignment sheet?
Write your name, your course number (ENG 050, 051, 067, 091, or 111), the section number of the writing course, and your instructor's name. Make sure the information is accurate and legible. Do not list any information related to ENG 000 that appears on your schedule.
What do I have to do for each assignment?
First, read the assignment carefully. Each assignment explains exactly what you need to do, and many provide useful examples and practice exercises as well. Next, read the assignment checklist that appears on the second page of each assignment. This is what tutors and instructors follow when evaluating your work. If you have any questions about an assignment, ask a tutor or an instructor before you begin working on the assignment.
When are my Writing Center assignments due?
With few exceptions, you will have a Writing Center deadline each week. The specific deadlines for your course
and section number are published in the Writing Center Guide and on the Writing Center web site.
How do I turn in a Writing Center assignment?
Bring your assignment and your Writing Center Manual to one of the tutors or instructors in the Writing Center for evaluation. Allow enough time to wait in line, meet with a tutor or instructor, and (perhaps) revise your work.
The tutor or instructor reads what you've written, gives you feedback, and determines if you've met the criteria provided on the checklist. (Continued on reverse side.)
• If you pass the assignment, the tutor or instructor completes the assignment cover sheet and the checklist page. He or she retains the coversheet for our records; the checklist page stays in your manual for your records.
• If you do not pass the assignment, you will have an opportunity to revise your work. You may turn it in for credit as long as the deadline has not passed.
How long can I work with a tutor or instructor in the Writing Center?
You can work with a tutor or instructor for 15 minutes when other students are waiting in line.
Should I turn in my Writing Center assignments to my classroom instructor?
Some instructors require you to turn in your Writing Center assignments; others do not. Please check with your classroom instructor.
What if I miss a Writing Center assignment deadline?
The Writing Center will not accept late assignments. If you miss a deadline, ask your classroom instructor if he or she will accept it for credit. Most instructors will not accept late work.
What if I'm sick when my Writing Center assignment is due?
Many unforeseen circumstances, including illness, can affect your schedule. That's why it's important to turn in your assignments early whenever possible. If you wait until the last minute, you run a greater risk of missing your deadline. Because of the number of students we serve, we are unable to accept late assignments for any reason.
Where is the best place to work on my Writing Center assignments?
You can work on the assignments wherever you are most comfortable. Some students work at home, and others prefer to work in the library or the Writing Center. The choice is yours.
Do I have to use a computer to complete my Writing Center assignments?
Some assignments must be word-processed. If you do not have a computer at home, you can use the computers in the classroom adjacent to the Writing Center or the computers in the library computer commons. For a complete list of the computers available on campus, see the Writing Center Guide.
How does the Writing Center relate to my final grade in my English class?
The Writing Center work is 25% of your final grade.
What can I do to ensure success in the Writing Center?
• Make sure you understand how the Writing Center works. Complete the orientation assignment, and ask any questions you might have.
• Give yourself enough time to complete each assignment; if you rush, you are more likely to make errors-errors that you'll need to correct to pass the assignment.
• Bring your assignments to the Writing Center before the deadline so you can make changes if needed.
• If you miss an assignment, don't get discouraged; continue working.
• Work ahead of schedule if possible. Completing the Writing Center Manual early can free up time much-needed time at the end of the semester.
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