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"CW: Writing Course" Case

Case Description

Ricardo is in a freshman English composition course. Because of a learning disability, Ricardo has permission to tape lectures, copy classmates' notes, and take extra time on tests, if needed. The professor gives the class a midterm, which consists of short-essays. Although Ricardo frequently participates in class discussions and appears knowledgeable about the class material, the professor notes that Ricardo scores poorly on the midterm. When the professor speaks with Ricardo after class, he says he would perform better if he could "talk out" his test.

What should the professor do?

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Case Responses

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Response 1.
The professor can be flexible and invite Ricardo to take the next test in the professor's office. There, the professor can read the questions to Ricardo which might trigger Ricardo's word retrieval, helping to narrow Ricardo's thought processes to determine the correct responses. Ricardo could answer the short essays orally to demonstrate his knowledge, as he does in group discussions.
Response 2.
The professor could give a mini-lesson to the entire class on how to thoughtfully approach, organize, and write short essays before the next test. The professor can review his test to be sure that his questions are clear and concise, and that will enhance students' ability to appropriately respond.
Response 3.
The professor should grade Ricardo's essays solely for content and expect errors.