Homework
by Kathy Unick
January 08, 2008
Homework
On the first day of school, pocket folders were provided for each student to make homework folders. The students wrote Math and their name on the front cover of the folder. Next, each student opened the pocket folder, traced his or her left hand on the upper part of the left-hand side, and wrote “L” in the traced hand. On the pocket below he or she wrote “Leave home.” The same steps were repeated for the right hand, and the students wrote “Right back” on the pocket below the traced hand. Papers to be left at home are placed in the left-hand pocket, and papers to be returned to school are placed in the right-hand pocket.
After each math lesson, there is independent homework written practice. Each page includes a short practice of the new concept and a review of previously introduced concepts. These homework pages are to be completed independently at home. Students are encouraged to ask parents to read the problems, check their work, and provide help when needed. Completing homework each day is important and should be corrected but not graded. I keep a chart to record returned homework, points are recorded and incentives are then given for achieving homework goals. I check the previous day’s homework and give immediate feedback. I also use this information to provide remediation.
At this stage in the year, the students in my math classes are able to read the majority of the math work that is required of them. The homework folders have been a helpful tool in teaching responsibility to students. Each student has seen the importance of getting homework done and how this helps them to remember what they have learned. I am extremely proud of each of my math students. Their efforts and dedication during math classes has led to becoming successful in learning math facts and problem solving.
As a parent, it would be helpful to me to circle any problems that you helped your child solve. In addition, if you are uncertain about how to help your child, write a note next to the appropriate problem on the homework page. Together we can help your child be successful and make progress in mathematics.
A Practice lap of Bumper to Bumper Basic Facts
Here is a rap we use to help us remember the answers for the doubles addition facts. It’s called the “Doubles Rap.”
Please practice this rap with your child at home.
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Doubles Rap It’s the doubles, baby, let’s go, let’s go! It’s the doubles, baby, and we start with zero: 0 + 0 = 0 Oh! 1 + 1 = 2 Oooooh! 2 + 2 = 4 More! 3 + 3 = 6 Kicks! 4 + 4 = 8 That’s great! 5 + 5 = 10 Again! |
