>
> 3. If you are going to correct, do not praise first and
> whatever you do, avoid criticism. "I loved the way you wrote
> that sentence Tom, but you need to stay away from passive
> voice." This is an ineffective way to praise and correct
> because the students learn to anticipate "but" as a negative at
> the end of all your praise. On the other hand, if you
> criticize first and then praise, the praise is the focus of the
> argument and will assist you in building ground with the
> student. "Tom, I notice you used lots of passive voice. We
> can work on that but I was very impressed with the thoughts you
> put into the story." This "but" comes across much better.
> Your "but" should have as much impact as possible. While you
> are laughing at that last sentence, remember to use humor often.

I think this is a very good point! I was taught ( and I am sure
this is true for a lot of people) to praise first then
criticize/correct second, but it does indeed cause the student
to wonder if your praise is really genuine or if you are getting
ready to lay into them about something

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