Homework that Increases Student Achievement
What one word strikes a note of dread into every student and parent alike? Homework. So many of us have experienced both extremes: from needless hours spent on repetitive assignments to activities that scream more frustration than function. So, where is the happy medium? How can we as educators use the tool that is homework to our advantage and to the student’s benefit?
Much has been said on the topic. In the article, “The Case For and Against Homework“, Marzano and Pickering lay out the whys and the whats of quality homework – why it is a tool for gain and what it takes for an assignment to be considered quality.
In deciding what you should assign at the close of the day, ask yourself this… Is it purposeful? Does it add to what you are currently teaching while building upon topics of interest? Is it possible? Does it take into age appropriate expectations and realistic time constraints? And, finally, is it too “parent” focused? Does it ask that a parent become an expert or simply invite them in the process as facilitator? If these questions have made you reevaluate that assignment notebook, take a look at the logs, guides, and ideas. These ideas can be put into your classroom newsletter or on your class website.
Happy teaching,
Kelly Harmon