Blog #10 Homework Rationale

 

Homework should be given as practice or review of skills already taught.  According to Hill and Flynn, students should be able complete homework almost independently (p.78).  If parents are needed to help teach the homework then it is not at an appropriate level.  Homework expectations need to be clearly communicated with students and parents so that they know what type and about how much homework they can expect and what the consequence is for not attempting homework. 

For my second graders I do feel that independent reading time is very valuable as they are learning to be more effective readers.  I do expect that students read each night but I do vary on the reading students do according to their level.  We spend a lot of time discussing what the appropriate book level is as we choose books.  I give them the choice of what type of book to read as long as it’s an appropriate level.  We use Accelerated Reader at school so my homework also includes getting ready for an AR test at least once a week.  I tell my students that my main goal is that they learn to enjoy reading and understand what they read.  I also let them know that it is still reading if they are reading with their parents or are read to so that they can have choices and be motivated to read at home.  I like to incorporate technology sometimes as well so I have used Starfall and Tumblebooks as options for reading, especially for specific students that might need support.

I also give math homework most nights.  I usually give a few problems practicing the skill we did that day.  There are nights where I switch out the Everyday Math worksheet and have them practice math facts in whichever format they choose.  They all have passwords for Xtra math and I provide links on my website if they choose to use the computer, but they can use flashcards or do them orally as well. 

As a parent I know there are times where we are doing homework in the car on the way to sports and I appreciate having the flexibility of practicing math facts and reading in a way that is beneficial for my student and workable with our schedule. 

It is my belief that students should not have hours of homework each night.  I want my students to have time to recharge and be kids at home therefore I don’t want to assign large amounts of homework that will be busy work. 

Finally, I do differentiate homework for specific students based on their needs.  For some of my students their reading homework is working on sight words or Florida Interventions with their parents.  For other students they may have their own math goals and I will change their work to fit their needs.  By checking their homework once it is returned to me I can see if what I’ve given is appropriate.  I let parents and students know that no student should be spending two hours doing homework and that if there is an issue the student should let me know so we can look at it together.