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Homework is an integral part of learning, because it teaches responsibility and independence. The assignments given should be clear and concise, and examples of the assignment can be given to clarify any instructions that might have not been clear to the student. Homework also should be creative and not busy work that makes the student feel as if he or she is just doing something for no reason. A teacher should always grade homework or there is no point in assigning the project in the first place.

Tips for Assigning Successful Homework

~ Homework should NEVER be assigned as a punishment. It should be assigned to help the student learn concepts covered in class, and to help them with issues that they need reinforcement in.

~ Use a homework agenda or table. Have a pre made calendar each month that goes over normal assignments like vocabulary or spelling review. This helps students get into a routine and aids parents in knowing what to expect their children to bring home.

~ Homework assignment should ALWAYS be graded. Students won't feel like they need to do homework if they think it is busy work'.

~ Parents should be aware of the homework assignments. Keep them up to date by sending out a letter once a month detailing some tasks that their children might be given.

~ Do not assign too much homework. Make sure the child has plenty of free time at night after homework is done. A good guideline is not more than 1.5 hours per night maximum for elementary students.

~ Do assign reinforcement homework. IE: Times tables, vocabulary, spelling, etc.

~ Be creative! Don't just give a child a book and tell them to read chapters 1-10. Let them plan to act out those chapters the next day in class and give them a part' to read so that they will be prepared. This will be much more exciting. A little creativity goes a long way in teaching.

~ Offer rewards: From the smallest child to the oldest of high school students, rewards work wonders. Don't only offer negative reinforcement. Give positive reinforcement a chance. They do not have to be huge awards. I used to give my students a free ice cream' day once a month if they did all their homework the prior month. For high school, something like a free pizza day' would work just as well.

~ Don't be afraid to step out of the box. Be ingenious and try new concepts to see what works for you!

~ Quality not quantity should be stressed in every homework assignment!

Homework is crucial to academic success but it does not have to be a boring chore' for students. Remember to go over what you've done in class, give assignments to prep students for the next day, and stay creative. Don't assign tasks if you are not going to grade them. That is a sure fire way to keep your students from doing your homework. Most of all, stress that learning can be fun!

Learn more about this author, Daniella Maggio.
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