ODDS AND ENDS

• NOTE:  YOU MUST HAVE YOUR DP UPDATED BEFORE YOUR TPOL
• BOOKS:  Turn in today, or bring me a replacement copy before you do your TPOL.
• PLEASE TAKE THE FEEDBACK SURVEY!
• HONORS:  Seminar 7th period

TPOL LETTER OF REC CRITIQUE

(These guidelines can also be found in your prep packet on page 8)

Step 1: Read the draft once without edits

Step 2: Re-read to edit (spelling/grammar/content)

Step 3: On this document, answer the below questions

Step 4:  Share your feedback with the author

Critique Questions

1. Is the letter formatted correctly?
1. Size 12 font, date, To Whom it May Concern:, 4-5 paragraphs, Sincerely, Name

2. Does the letter have an intro, body, conclusion?

3. Does the opening paragraph meet the requirements as described on page 3 of the TPOL prep packet? DOes it have a “thesis” statement that lists the main qualities the recommender is going to highlight?

4. Do the body paragraphs clearly and articulately highlight how the candidate would be an asset to the college to which they are applying?

5. Are there any spelling errors? If so, circle them.

6. Are there specific examples or anecdotes to support claims made about the student’s character and/or academic abilities?

7. Is there anything you think should be cut or added?

MOCK INTERVIEWS

Take turns playing the following roles:

1. Candidate (student)

2. Interviewer (College Admissions officer)

• Spend at least 10 minutes interviewing the candidate.  Ask them questions from the list of interview questions in the TPOL Prep packet.  Feel free to throw some curve balls as long as they are relevant to this interview process.

• After the interview, the interviewer should share his/her observations with the candidate.

• Then rotate roles and repeat.

Observations: Does the candidate...

• Use academic, appropriate language?
• Speak clearly, with appropriate volume and pacing and avoid saying “um” or “like”?
• Seem confident (mindful of eye contact, posture, fidgeting and intonation)?

• Answer questions with in-depth responses and specific examples or anecdotes?
• Seem authentic/genuine/honest?