Homework

            In my opinion the rationale behind homework is to practice skills that were recently taught.  The old saying with homework is "practice makes perfect" however, I agree with the more modern version of "perfect practice makes perfect". If students practice skills incorrectly it can be even more difficult for them to figure out how to do it correctly in the future. Meaningful homework is work that students are already confident with. These should be skills they have practiced in class under teacher supervision. Homework should reinforce the skills that students already have. Often times in my reading class I ask students to complete common assignments that have one changing element; for instance, they have to complete vocabulary sentences each week. The assignment, which they are accustomed to stays the same, the words do not. This allows them to just practice the vocabulary word meanings and not get caught up in the "how to" of the assignment. I provide feedback for my students the following day. If the assignment lends itself, we grade together as a class. Having students grade each other's assignments helps them to gain a deeper understanding.
          I think that technology can be very useful in the process of homework.  Allowing students to show their proficiency level using technology can help with student engagement and motivation. I also think it is important to make sure that the technology required for homework is easily accessible to all students.