Michelle's+Page

Michelle Paolino – Wiki Page **__ Homework: Helpful or Harmful? __** As a 5th grade math teacher in the middle school, I assign homework Monday through Thursday. It is an extension of the math lesson from that day. Sometimes, a homework assignment may be used as an introduction to a new topic that allows me access to what students know and to help clear up misconceptions. Homework is worth 10 points, and I do not grade for understanding or accuracy. I grade for effort and completion. I do this because I view homework as practice problems, and I expect students to make mistakes while they are learning the new material. This site is for teachers, parents, and students who believe - or do not believe - in homework. Both sides of the homework debate are argued. At the end is my belief of homework as it pertains to my 5th grade middle school math classes. **__ Harmful Homework __** Homework is becoming a daily ritual for some students, and many parents are along for the ride. In fact, parents often state that they cannot help their child with homework because they themselves do not know how to do it. Some parents feel that homework is affecting their overall family life because it is replacing the once free time students had. Kids need to be kids, and need their own time to play sports and enjoy other activities. Research has shown that there is no direct correlation to homework and student success in school. Furthermore, the myth that homework helps students manage time and develop work habits has no research behind it. If there is no purpose for homework then it becomes “busywork” and meaningless. This is especially hurtful when excess homework is assigned that has no true value. **__ Helpful Homework __** On the other hand, when homework serves a purpose, it then becomes a tool for students to further understand a concept or practice a specific skill. Homework should be linked to the lesson in school that day or to help students prepare for the lesson the following day. Homework may be assigned as an extension of the lesson, and can be used to summarize what was learned in school. There is not enough time in the school day to cover all the necessary material. Therefore, homework must occur in order for effective learning to continue. Families who are serious about homework and understand the importance of it can help their child set time aside to complete assignments. Students can develop self-discipline and effective study habits. Homework also allows the teacher to provide immediate feedback the following day. **__ My Thoughts __** As a math teacher, I truly believe that students must have extended practice of the skills and concepts presented that day. When I introduce a new topic, I match the homework to the lesson from that day. On the third or fourth day of the same topic, I do not increase the amount of homework, but ask students to apply what they have learned. The night before a quiz, I always give a study guide sheet with practice problems. The most effective way to study for a math quiz is to do practice problems. I let the students know that homework is important because it does serve a purpose. It not only helps them reinforce their math skills, but also allows them to clear up misconceptions the following day with immediate feedback from me. It allows them to generate questions and clear up misconceptions. Like I said, I do not grade homework for accuracy because I am not expecting students to understand the entire skill or concept all at once. I have found that students who complete their homework are more likely to achieve a higher grade and attain greater satisfaction during math class.
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