Homework or no Homework? That is the Question

Homework or no Homework?  

That is the Question

I always give my students homework.  To give homework, or not to give homework, though, is a question that has probably been around since before Hamlet uttered that famous line!

Every teacher understands the importance of learning and mastering material.  And every teacher definitely knows that class time is not always enough!  One way that we can allow students to develop their understanding of concepts and processes is through practice and assignments.  I always give my students homework because it helps them to understand concepts on a deeper level, show initiative, and take responsibility for their own learning. 

But... and there is always a but.  What happens when they don’t want to do it? 

As teachers, we are put in a challenging position when it comes to homework.  We know that they need to practice to learn.  But we also know that it isn’t always a reflection of the learning- kids can call on their good friend, “Google”, to help them finish tasks, or get their parents to help.  And don’t get me started on the time that it can take to collect, mark and grade homework assignments.

But, I did my homework (see what I did there?) and I truly see the value in giving homework tasks.  Practicing and revising their skills will help them get better at challenging subjects and tasks. Students will also see the value in taking the time to develop their skills when they achieve success.  So how do we, as teachers, motivate them to actually want to do it?

I know there are quite a few ways to motivate, but I want to share one that has worked for me.

Are you ready for this?  You’ll have to come in a little closer, I don’t want students to know that they are learning and having fun at the same time! 

What is the secret?  Games.

I find learning games to be extremely motivating.  Students actually want to play these!!!  Many are self-checking, too, so students can easily understand when and where they need help. (A time-saver, Hallelujah, I hear you say!)

I’ve created some no-prep (yay!) learning games which you can find in my TPT store.  (You’ll be even happier when you realize I’ve found a way to force them to show their work!) 

Take a look at the freebie below:

           

If you and your students love these games as much as I do, you might want to purchase some more of my math games. 

 

I hope that you and your students find these resources as fun as my students have.  Leave a comment below if your students love them!

Enrica

Matemaths