ACU reading clinic provides unique summer learning opportunity For immediate release July 9, 1999 The Reading Clinic at Abilene Christian University is offering a unique learning opportunity for Abilene area students this summer. Currently 50 students are participating in the summer clinic on ACU's campus. Pat Simpson, director of the clinic, says the purpose of the reading clinic is to provide focused one-on-one reading instruction based on diagnostic assessment. Each summer the clinic helps more than 50 students, grades 1-12. The summer tutors in the clinic are graduate students working toward education certification in reading, special education or school administration. An After School Reading Clinic continues during the school year with about 20 students per semester, and they are tutored by undergraduate ACU students specializing in reading. "The trained tutors can zero in on the kids and what they need," says Simpson. "The students consistently show marked improvement during the clinic." The first thing students do is complete several assessment tests such as learning styles, word recognition and comprehension. After the assessment, tutors begin working with the students on the area(s) in which improvement is needed. The gaps may be in phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension or fluency. Tutors learn much about reading instruction as they assess, set goals and deliver instruction. Objective focused software in the computer lab reinforces the learning experience. Parents receive a detailed report on testing, instruction and progress at the end of the clinic, so parents know what their children are learning and how they are improving. "The one-on-one coaching system we use with tutor and student is what sets us apart and makes us so successful," Simpson says. -- 30 -- If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact Tom Craig, director of media and community relations, at craigt@nicanor.acu.edu or call 915-674-2692. Last update: July 9, 1999 This page is maintained by Tom Craig, craigt@nicanor.acu.edu. http://www.acu.edu/people/news/990709-clinic.html