VCMC Fall 2024�Engaging Students with Homework

HS Session II

Scott Mangers

Moorpark High School

smangers@mrpk.org

Engaging Students with Homework

• Foundational Question: What is the purpose of homework?

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• Article Discussion

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• Sharing Ideas and Resources

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What is the purpose of homework?

• How would you answer this question?
• How did MHS math teachers answer it and other questions…
• Do you see a difference in purpose between classwork and homework?
• How would you describe the types of questions you assign?
• Exposure to New Ideas vs Review/Practice of Known Concepts
• How often do you grade HW for completeness?
• How often do you grade HW for accuracy

What is the purpose of homework?

• Practice
• Practice with some exposure to new ideas.
• To practice the skills taught in class. To help students retain the material for the long term.
• Reinforce learning outside the classroom, practice skills, develop good study habits (you hope), become independent learners, improve time management, and prepare for upcoming lessons. For me, it gives me an understanding of what a student can do independently and offers insight into a student's grasp of the material, allowing for adjustment in my instruction if needed.
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What is the purpose of homework?

• It should be an extension of the classroom, practice skills that have been taught in class. Homework is controversial - if students are struggling in class with classwork then homework only becomes a frustration and is no longer a useful tool
• Practice, independent study, identifying self-assessment
• For student to master the material presented in class
• Practice
• practice, unless preloading
• To gain exposure and to practice essential skills that are taught during the lessons

Article: Assigning More Meaningful Math HW

• Read through the article.
• What stuck out to you the most?
• Is there anything you disagree with?

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Assigning More Meaningful Math Homework

A small set of problems or even one substantial problem can be enough to supplement classroom instruction.

By Crystal Frommert November 29, 2023

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NCTM Tips for Teachers: Homework

Strategies to maximize homework benefits:

• Limit the length but ensure quality. 
• Encourage self-assessment. 
• Utilize online resources and tools. 
• Review and provide feedback. 
• Involve families. 
• Let students know ahead of time. 
• Clarify the purpose of homework. 
• Score homework with purpose. 

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NCTM Tips for Teachers: Homework

Alternative approaches to homework:

• Use a flipped classroom model. 
• Use game-based learning platforms to make homework more interactive and fun. 
• Assign group projects or collaborative tasks. 
• Use Project-Based Learning (PBL). 
• Use personalized learning pathways to help students master topics. 
• Implement cross-curricular math connections. 
• Provide opportunities for peer review and feedback. 
• Score homework with purpose. 

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