Welcome #G2great friends. I am chatting with my incredible friend Kitty Donohoe in San Diego CA before a two day Okapi Symposium. I’m so happy to finally meet my wonderful friend Kitty in person!
Roman from Ontario, Canada. HS Teacher/Student Success Leader/Agent of Transformation. Checking in to #g2great tonight to be surrounded by friends. Hope all our well as I say hi from our cottage week.
Welcome #G2great friends. I am chatting with my incredible friend Kitty Donohoe in San Diego CA before a two day Okapi Symposium. I’m so happy to finally meet my wonderful friend Kitty in person!
Jen from PA, finishing up the last week of co-directing a writing project summer institute...hoping to stay awake for the whole chat. Excited to hear opinions about this topic. #G2Great
A 1 Pointless. It’s all about teacher control and doing something cause we’ve always given homework. Takes time away for Ss to dream and play! #g2great
A1. In the elementary . . .
USELESS
Hattie - research
Practical - kids need to play.
Every minute at school HAS to be productive before work is assigned at home.
#G2Great
A1: Ineffective. Hattie and other research show it doesn't do anything positive (and may cause more problems) as well as drives a potential wedge between home and school supports #G2great
A1 The word “IRRESPONSIBLE” comes to mind. Why would any responsible educator think a homebound packet of poop makes sense? It’s a professional insult to all we hold dear. #G2Great
A1 Frustrated! I believe homework could be amazing IF we treated it like opportunities for Ss to teach or pursue their passion projects. Not some punitive thing that lulls them into compliance. @brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh#G2Great
A1: My opinion on homework: worthless
Students need time at home to engage with family not stees on something they need to worry about at school #g2great
A1 Misunderstood. Homework has gotten a bad rap because it is assigned so poorly. Studies suggest that the type given are ineffective; researchers have coined it as ALL homework. We need to give that passion back to students so that they want to do PASSION WORK. #g2great
#g2great A1 Homework is intentional if it is reading a choice book or practicing a new math skill. It should not be assigned simply to say, "I gave homework tonight."
A1: Casualty. To explain: Purposeful homework that helps students to continue learning is not bad. Unfortunately that homework is a casualty of bad teaching and practice. Kindergarten kids doing homework is crazy. Let them play outside. #g2great
Hello all #bookexcursion friends. For some reason I don't see you tweets until they appear as notification on my phone. However, glad to be here with you. #g2great
#g2great A1 Homework is intentional if it is reading a choice book or practicing a new math skill. It should not be assigned simply to say, "I gave homework tonight."
Q2: In my estimate, 50% of parents would applaud if HW were eliminated and 50% would be terrified. How can we strike a balance? By making HW more meaningful! #g2great
A1: Obsolete. Just as we've changed the way our students learn and acquire knowledge, we should consider how homes and home-life have changed. We shouldn't assign homework just because that's the way it's always been done. #g2great
A1: Ineffective. Most of what is assigned does not meet needs of students. Either it’s something that a student doesn’t need practice or, above their ability to do independently, and/or is not engaging or meaningful #G2Great
A1: Casualty. To explain: Purposeful homework that helps students to continue learning is not bad. Unfortunately that homework is a casualty of bad teaching and practice. Kindergarten kids doing homework is crazy. Let them play outside. #g2great
A1: Overrated. Unless a student is compelled to work outside of the class (a sign of passionate learning - a good thing), homework saps the love for learning. #g2great
A1b Schools boast a NO HOMEWORK policy then say they only assign reading. In essence, that is homework. When students have no support at home for written work, they probably will not have support for reading. We need to transform our thinking. Not just replace. #g2great
A1 We have literally ignored decades of research about the questionable impact of homework. How is it even possible that we continue to do the same foolish things that laugh in the face of the research? #G2Great
So many incredible descriptors for homework in Q1…. all so different and yet all apply. Every week I think how much I wish we were having these kind of conversations in our schools. So important! #G2Great
A1Homework should be linked to inquiry or family engagement. I like to only have monthly family or Inquiry projects that are fun, personal to child’s interest, and manageable for families. P/S/T learn a lot from family engagement projects. #G2great
Reading homework starts in the classroom. Independent choice reading in class inspires independent reading at home. They should work together, otherwise, it's just lip service. #g2great
Hey Jeremy... when it causes strife, hurt feelings or frustrations when Ps can't do the work or don't have time... students are bored or uninspired... both can lead to animosity towards Ts. Potential for relationship damage #G2great
A1 Far too many teachers send homework they would scowl at if it was directed at their own children. Maybe that should be the filter with which we judge value vs. trash. #G2Great
We need to carefully look at the research and not simply say that all homework has little impact on learning. Hattie's research is misuderstood and only parts are used to prove a point. As others have said, we need to have purpose & intention. #g2great
A1 Open-ended. (Reading and/or researching passions of interest, engaging families in surveys, interacting with books or something meaningful are what I consider appropriate homework for my little ones.) #G2great
#g2great It's always the book that gets the reader to read, not simply bc it's part of nightly HW. The idea is to get the right books into Ss hands so the books do the talking!
We need to carefully look at the research and not simply say that all homework has little impact on learning. Hattie's research is misuderstood and only parts are used to prove a point. As others have said, we need to have purpose & intention. #g2great
I think there is a difference between “assigning” reading and helping kids create strong reading habits. The habits begin with the convos, choice and independent reading time provided in class. #g2great
A2 The only homework students have in grade 5 & 6 at intermediate school I work in is free choice reading and 3 practice math problems. Nothing attached to reading but trust and joy! #g2great
A1: Hinderance. Homework is used because "it always has been." I gave up homework and never looked back. Would I like more things for my families to understand what we are doing in class? Yes! Which is why I am here tonight :) But I refuse to call it homework. #g2great
And sometimes because of pressure from parents. I ditched traditional homework but still had a few parents asking for worksheets to be sent home. It is the only way many parents know. Schools need to do better at remedying this as well #G2great
Hi #g2great! Lisa, a literacy specialist, from Massachusetts. Just got back from playing tennis on this beautiful night so I'm popping in to the chat a little late.
I completely agree. If I was asked to read x number of pages of the novel I am currently reading, would I choose to read more after I finished the allotted portion? Or would I be done? How would that affect my motivation? #G2great
In reply to
@MrsPalmer23, @Mrs_J_of_EAMS, @NowakRo
A2 As someone who travels across the country, I can tell you that it’s a mixed bag of HW priorities. Some administrators literally mandate HW (which is both disconcerting & insulting). #G2Great
The same can be therefore said for "learning" habits. We don't simply have to assign homework, but stopping learning at home seems like an answer that may seem easy but is not grounded in best interests. #g2great
#g2great Hi Kristen! Agree! It's always the books that will pull the Ss into them to read away from the CR. If we do our job getting Ss the right books, the books will lead the way!
I think there is a difference between “assigning” reading and helping kids create strong reading habits. The habits begin with the convos, choice and independent reading time provided in class. #g2great
A2 My admin believes in time on task and good academic habits so he is a proponent of homework. However, there is no reason why it can't be creative - and s/never be used in punitive ways. @brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh#G2Great
A1: Habitual. At the elementary level, we assign it because we’ve always assigned it - even in the face of voluminous research that surfaces questions about its value. #G2Great
A2 My admin supports HW being minimal. I am lucky to work in a school where we get to make our decisions based on what's best for kids. I don't give homework. #g2great
I often think that at times it is a way for them to feel involved as well. They know what their child is doing and feel they can be on top of them so they succeed. #g2great
A2: My district has worked a lot over the last year or so to rethink and revise homework policies based on student, parent, and teacher feedback. I feel it’s headed away from hw for the sake of hw, which is great. #G2Great
A2: Maybe it is being in JH SH but my admin has never had anything to say about HW. I have a policy that if they do not have enough time to finish an assignment in time it is likely part to do with me. If they wasted time it is different but no HW is the goal #g2great
A2 There is no vision/policy. It is an individual choice. When no vision/policy exists, it usually is a sign of lack or research or willingness to grow. We need to be rooted in strong practices and keep students' best interest at heart. #g2great
Thanks! It really was amazing. #Quebec is so different from Western Canada. I had to keep reminding myself I hadn’t just landed in another country by accident. LOL! #G2great
#g2great This is a great scenario to raise. I struggle w/knowing how many pgs to be considering a successful reading night per S when taking status of the class. There are so many factors that come into play in assessing independent reading away from school!
In reply to
@lethajhenry, @Mrs_J_of_EAMS, @NowakRo
A2: My district has had lots of conversations about the value of homework and how it’s being used. My school has tried this year giving choice where students can chose to explore their passions or work on things they feel they’d like to improve upon #G2Great
A2 Unfortunately, policy and beliefs can be at odds. But requiring homework and modifying it in ways that benefits kids is not an impossible quest. We owe it to our children to make it worthy of their time. #G2Great
Even though we are allowed to make our own decisions, sometimes I wish we would do something more along these lines. Where we are all doing what's best for kids. #g2great
A2: My district has worked a lot over the last year or so to rethink and revise homework policies based on student, parent, and teacher feedback. I feel it’s headed away from hw for the sake of hw, which is great. #G2Great
#g2great A2 I think educators in general default to their own experiences as students, some appease parents who misunderstand busywork or isolated skill practice as keeping their child a step ahead, others allow grade level teams or individuals Ts decide=mixed messages
#G2Great A2: An administrative turn over year, ....so I'll find out shortly. But previously it was recommended to be given. Students knew the expectations and this who completed benefitted throughout the school year
Q4: Categories must be involve relevance and choice - like "Do a Google Search to find an answer to the question you posed in science today..." #g2great
A2b The minute we say that a policy/vision exists where it is the same for all students, we have made a mistake. We cannot fathom that all students have same needs, why then assign/presrcibe a one-size-fits-all approach. We need to personalize learning more and more. #g2great
A2: I am not sure what my principal's vision is for homework, this is a new school and I didn't get a chance to ask. He does have Twitter, and he has retweeted Mary Howard... I could tag him... Hmm. #g2great
A2- My admin supports Ts in whatever they decide is best for their class. I don't assign it but I explain why to my S and their families. If they have specific concerns (e.g. a certain math skill/strategy), I have games they can borrow to play as a family #G2great
A2 Our District has required minutes for each grade level. At the elementary it needs to include reading and math. I felt like I had some freedom. #G2Great
A2: Our admin & district have worked hard to keep current and find a balance based on research...Ss are encouraged to read each night, but what they read is completely up to them...interest & authentic choice play an important role #G2Great
A2: My administration leaves HW policy in the hands of its teachers. My approach to HW is based on a desire to help students love to learn and grow as readers, writers, and thinkers. Whatever happens inside or outside of instructional time should be compelling. #g2great
#G2Great is trending already. It shows how important this topic is to those of you who are sharing your wisdom. I love these discussions and so grateful for all of you! #G2Great
A2 We must come together to establish criteria about what makes homework shallow compliance vs valuable time. We can’t send children and parents mixed messages about what we value. #G2Great
I had one parent this year who claimed her child struggled because HW wasn’t being sent home on a daily basis. There was nothing I could do to convince her otherwise. #G2Great
A2 #g2great We have a new principal coming this yr! She will be keeping things status quo her first year, so that means following the school handbook which is the same across elementary schools across district: 10 mins per grade level, so 4th has 40 mins. not incl 15 mins rding.
Kathy Pina, Pk-3 Principal. Policy is still about 10 min per grade level. We've done a lot to make it meaningful if need be but my philosophy is no hwk unless it is self directed and fires up Ss personal passions. #g2great
I love that Andy (and I LOVE that teachers are trusted to make those decisions.) So important that we have the opportunity to use professional knowledge. #G2Great
A2: My administration leaves HW policy in the hands of its teachers. My approach to HW is based on a desire to help students love to learn and grow as readers, writers, and thinkers. Whatever happens inside or outside of instructional time should be compelling. #g2great
I had one parent this year who claimed her child struggled because HW wasn’t being sent home on a daily basis. There was nothing I could do to convince her otherwise. #G2Great
A2 #g2great We have a new principal coming this yr! She will be keeping things status quo her first year, so that means following the school handbook which is the same across elementary schools across district: 10 mins per grade level, so 4th has 40 mins. not incl 15 mins rding.
A3. Need homework guidelines:
Not busy work.
Not new learning from today.
Not "quizing factlets"
MUST have purpose?
Reading
Interviews / Data Collection
Conversations
#g2great
A2b #g2great This year, for first time, I allowed book from CR library to go back and forth between school and home to allow Ss to complete 30 mins nightly reading. Ss always had choice to bring in own books frm home, but I made them available for Ss to be successful.
Kathy Pina, Pk-3 Principal. Policy is still about 10 min per grade level. We've done a lot to make it meaningful if need be but my philosophy is no hwk unless it is self directed and fires up Ss personal passions. #g2great
A2: I agree that open, intentional conversations around HW are important to have with parents...just as we differentiate to meet needs in the classroom, our approach to HW expectations should also be fluid #G2Great
Yes, this is done, but there is no research base to this being effective. Many people follow this, but 10 or 20 minutes becomes 30 or 40 for some kids. #g2great
Kathy Pina, Pk-3 Principal. Policy is still about 10 min per grade level. We've done a lot to make it meaningful if need be but my philosophy is no hwk unless it is self directed and fires up Ss personal passions. #g2great
Side note while I have lots of brilliant brains at my finger tips. Any LA teachers with a 70 minute block? Asking for a friend, a friend name Brent...#g2great
A3 We start by raising academic integrity for day to day practices. Homework is highly likely a direct reflection of what is happening in that Ts’ classrooms so we need to start at the source! #G2Great
A2 I know homework is given, really have to unlayer this. Is it grade level preference (no longer part of kinder), is it we’ve always done it, is it policy, is it parents would be horrified if not assigned? #g2great
A2 Ts should have the discretion. 1st move to evaluate hwk was to hv Ts gv it in class & observe. Their own observations shifted their practices. Most Ss didn't need what was being given. #g2great
Not question-related but we have GOT to get rid of the "10 Minutes per grade level" it is incredibly out-dated and seriously puts damage on precious childhood. 50 minutes of HW for 5th grade * 5 = 250 min/week = 9000 min per school year. That is 150 hours. No thanks!! #g2great
#g2great A2 I’m a firm believer that if homework is the best option for supporting Ss outside of school that it mimic the work inside the classroom & that it receive equal attention and immediate feedback. I loathe the idea of packets that get filed away in file 13 🗑
A3 Homework starts in classwork. Anything we ask Ss to do outside of school should be directly related to what we're doing in school, and we should make sure it's worth doing. HW should also be differentiated and meet the Ss where they are. #g2great
Kathy Pina, Pk-3 Principal. Policy is still about 10 min per grade level. We've done a lot to make it meaningful if need be but my philosophy is no hwk unless it is self directed and fires up Ss personal passions. #g2great
Give homework that involves authentic practice. If we want students to practice reading and writing their homework should be to read something and/or write something. #g2great
It's important to disassociate homework from family engagement. There are things families can do at home that engage, and the traditional homework structure often doesn't. #G2Great
A3 The first problem is worksheets. The second, one-size-fits-all. If we want rigor, we need to have authentic, purposeful, passionate learning inside/outside school. Give the support/encouragement that each individual student needs. Don't simply assign busy work. #g2great
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
We also have to ask whether or not our homework practices replicate or exacerbate existing societal inequalities. Do our classrooms become further stratified because of what we assign and how we assess or count it? #G2Great
A3: to raise academic integrity for homework assignments IT MUST be intentional and connected to real-life experiences.
Give students an actual reason to engage and learn
#g2great
When I do Status of the Class, I refer to the student’s previous status and use that info when conferring, if appropriate. If a student hasn’t made progress on their reading or is abandoning a lot of books, etc then those become conversations for one-on-one conferences. #G2Great
In reply to
@MrsPalmer23, @lethajhenry, @Mrs_J_of_EAMS, @NowakRo
A3: Homework can’t be something kids can just mindlessly complete. It shouldn’t be in place of the teaching that didn’t happen in school. It needs purpose, authenticity, and it must be rooted in student needs and passions. Not one size fits all #G2Great
A3: I don’t think every student should have the same “assignment”. It’s about helping them pursue an interest by reading/researching, or practice with an area of need. There should also be time allotted to just enjoy being a kid. #G2Great
I love the “no strings” part Laura. We have to trust a joy fueled book to do the words that only a joy fueled book can do at home. It’s not about compliantly proving that they’ve read but getting those books in their hands they can’t put down! #G2Great
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
A4: Make all homework critical thinking if you have to have it. Develop and argument, research a topic. Fill in the blanks is a game and parents are the ones usually playing. In the world of Google I don't get why Ts would use fill in the blanks at all. #g2great
Q5: Let's give our kids credit in recognizing busy work from authentic work - let their goal oriented, purpose setting inquiry-based focus lead HW #g2great
A3: I would assume assigning vigorous (effort, energy, enthusiasm) tasks (sorry, I don't use the word rigor, I hate it) I think we need to find things that incorporate parents/guardians. Not sure what this looks like though. #g2great
But we do have conversations about this at faculty meetings, and they know I'm not pushing quantity. Some of the Ts are afraid of MS saying we're not preparing them for MS. So silly! We're cracking down on this though. #g2great
#g2great Laura, I finally had the guts to start making that the homework for my students and it not only changed my life but that of my students! PS I am so excited to meet Mary in person here in San Diego- one day I hope to meet you too!!
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
A3 Why can't we allow kids to pursue things that pique their curiosity as "at-home" learning? What would happen if we mentored kids to choose after-school practice based on their own goals? "What's tricky for you? What would you design to help you grow in that area?" #g2great
I do agree. But to those students who have zero activities outside school, can we not help nourish some passion that we can accompany them with? When a child discovers a passion for learning, we can help encourage that passion. #g2great
Yes, this is done, but there is no research base to this being effective. Many people follow this, but 10 or 20 minutes becomes 30 or 40 for some kids. #g2great
Kathy Pina, Pk-3 Principal. Policy is still about 10 min per grade level. We've done a lot to make it meaningful if need be but my philosophy is no hwk unless it is self directed and fires up Ss personal passions. #g2great
#g2great Laura, I finally had the guts to start making that the homework for my students and it not only changed my life but that of my students! PS I am so excited to meet Mary in person here in San Diego- one day I hope to meet you too!!
This is VERY powerful. We had 4th Graders creating something over one week as their HW to represent anything they're learning in any subject area. Very empowering! #agency#g2great@stony1lane
#G2Great A3: Simple TPT or Pinterest worksheets are not homework. To increase the rigor and student buy in, homework needs to be just as engaging and personable as our daily small group instruction
A3 Maybe we should make a HW reality list. Let’s write down everything that goes home and put it under the value microscope. What? Why? Why not? What else? #G2Great
A3: We live & teach at a time that info & facts are at our fingertips...assignments that invite Ss to think, problem solve, dig deep and form connections make much more sense #G2Great
#G2Great A3 Like many educational dominos I know that grading guidelines can also influence homework, we are wise to remember “We assess what we value” & ask what message we are sending home about what we value
A3 It should be meaningful and relevant, something the student can do independently, invite students to think, explore, or create. There should also be a degree of flexibility because homework is not an option for all students every night. #G2Great
A3 #g2great To raise integrity of HW, Ts can offer Ss choice & favor quality over quantity (math) The HW sheets that accompany our math program have too many problems ea night. By selecting some of the drill and then intentionally selecting a few word problems, Ts make it doable.
I would definitely not advocate for “stopping learning at home.” As a T,I was guilty of assigning work that had very little value. I now encourage passion projects, play-based learning, family/friend activities, and authentic reading/writing work for at-home learning.#g2great
A3 Look at homework beyond worksheets, fill in the blanks, multiple choice and finishing up what wasn’t done at school. Homework with design and purpose, not ours but our Sts . I could go for that. #g2great
https://t.co/UpQpxXwH8N
A3 I am a huge proponent on reading for pleasure or content to broaden your passions. We need to develop the love of reading and writing without the strings of HW. I agree with both of you Mary and @LRobbTeacher. #G2Great
I love the “no strings” part Laura. We have to trust a joy fueled book to do the words that only a joy fueled book can do at home. It’s not about compliantly proving that they’ve read but getting those books in their hands they can’t put down! #G2Great
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
Has anyone come across Ts that assign work that was not finished in class as homework? "Oh, that's okay if you don't finish now; you can finish for homework." I hear that so often when I come to pull Ss out. #g2great
A3- I really couldn't justify sending anything home with all Ss which required family participation- undue stress on parents who may work long shifts, have multiple children to care for, or a multitude of other daily realities that make HW a stressor to all #g2great
A3: Homework can’t be something kids can just mindlessly complete. It shouldn’t be in place of the teaching that didn’t happen in school. It needs purpose, authenticity, and it must be rooted in student needs and passions. Not one size fits all #G2Great
Also, we need to remember, they are kids ONCE. We need to stop squelching and squeezing childhood out of them like they are a ketchup packet. They NEED time to wonder, play, explore, dream, BE KIDS. #G2Great
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
A4 The first category would be authentic engagement in meaningful and purposeful reading and writing. That should be a major category priority across grades and content areas. #G2Great
A4 Imagine if homework categories would align w/Ss interests and (also) provide meaningful practice. It can happen. Reading & Writing & Math all could become passion projects. @brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh@smokeylit#G2Great
A4 Imagine if homework categories would align w/Ss interests and (also) provide meaningful practice. It can happen. Reading & Writing & Math all could become passion projects. @brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh@smokeylit#G2Great
A3: Give students choice when it comes to HW. For dig. stories some prefer the quiet of their home to record their voice. Some homes are not so quiet. Extend deadlines to midnight or over the weekend due those who need more time. Let Ss know you honor their time. #g2great
#g2great Exactly and Ts are instructed to have families write a note if HW went beyond time frame. What if no adult is present when Ss are doing HW? This is more and more common in our district. Thus, system fails and Ss feel obligated to make excuse that they left at home.
A4 We need to stoph having categories such as unfinished work, practice worksheets, etc. We need categories that include passion work, work to impact community, family learning, making a differece. Let us build our communities up. #g2great
A4: personal growth, reflections, aha moments, woah-check this out, I get it now. Not sure if they’re quantifiable categories, but they would show student learning. #G2Great
For some. Like Ss, Ts have to feel empowered to make this choice. They know I'm behind them, so it's easier, but there are a few who still are afraid. So sad. #g2great
A3 "Homework" should be self directed, unassigned, free choice, meaningful to the child, supportive of their personal passions...it has to be a common agreement within the "village" raising the children that this be the case. #g2great
A3 How sad that Smokey's negative memories towards the homewreck still apply? Rdg is the best shared engagement families can have. If we've scaffolded them well into authentic research, survey-making, creating or just talking abt bks, fams could have choices of those. #G2great
A4 The purpose of HW is to apply what we already taught kids in order to reinforce and dig deeper. If parents have to take over, it doesn’t fit this criteria. #G2Great
Love this! Especially thinking as it pertains to ELA... read to learn about something you love, make something you read about, make memes, share what you're reading with your friends or family... #g2great
Has anyone come across Ts that assign work that was not finished in class as homework? "Oh, that's okay if you don't finish now; you can finish for homework." I hear that so often when I come to pull Ss out. #g2great
Oh, I finally am able to join a chat at night, congratulate myself and making it all the way through the #ILAchat and then realize I have missed #g2great! Thanks for your amazing archives and blog posts so I can keep up, @DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh and team!
A4: Rather than worksheets, assignment categories should be open-ended...choice reading with opportunities to record questions & thinking for further discussion...any assignment that taps into CHOICE & INTEREST is a step in the right direction #G2Great
When questioned about why I don’t give homework, my 1st response is because my one student goes home to a family being asked to manage multiple assignments. Any tie to being meaningful has become an exercise in compliance. #g2great
A4) passion, leadership, growth. Students need to be able to reflect about and connect with their leaning to make positive connections and be a force of change in our world.
#G2Great
I don’t see that as homework. It comes in student-centered classes where Ss can find their passions and WANT guidance with books and materials. In this scenario, not everyone would do extra work. Time to play is so important—I worry Ss don’t know how to play. #g2great
YES! In all subjects too of course. I'd rather have Ss learning about the Civil War if they love that topic or creating their own ways of showing what they found... playing games with family and friends to learn how to get along than doing worksheets, etc. #G2great
A4 The purpose of HW is to apply what we already taught kids in order to reinforce and dig deeper. If parents have to take over, it doesn’t fit this criteria. #G2Great
We need to ask ourselves: What is the purpose of the Homework given? Does it meet students' needs? Is it an assessment of what was learned or is it drill and skill work that is part of the old school mode of thinking. #G2Great
In reply to
@brennanamy, @pleepow, @DrMaryHoward, @hayhurst3, @franmcveigh
A4 What we choose for homework should be designed to promote transfer of instructional efforts. It’s not unknown but a new lens to view what they already learned. #G2Great
A4: I like the idea of HW looking like
1. Something kids are interested in.
2. Something that has them ready for the next day or reflects on that days learning.
3. Might look at a weekly blog post or podcast... hmmm #g2great
I forget where I heard this one, but the hw that would be assigned would be something they all know to reinforce the basic skill that is needed. More or less something they may have learned the previous year to support the current work.#g2great
A4 The purpose of HW is to apply what we already taught kids in order to reinforce and dig deeper. If parents have to take over, it doesn’t fit this criteria. #G2Great
This week in kindercamp our #makerspace#Geniushour opportunities that could be extended in multiple ways. Their excitement in sharing with parents was palpable #g2great
This week in kindercamp our #makerspace#Geniushour opportunities that could be extended in multiple ways. Their excitement in sharing with parents was palpable #g2great
I love and believe in the necessity of love of reading. I think when we redefine homework, we need to include so much more. Encouraging giving back to the community, spending time at retirement homes, volunteering are all things that should be part of our reflections. #g2great
A5 We can start by merging research on HW as well as that of choice/voice & interest. Research doesn’t work in isolation but supports our understanding of how these things work in support each other. #G2Great
@ our last Curiosity Projects time this year, Ss thought of something they were curious about & framed it as a ?. Then, they used all resources available 2 answer their ?. After 50-min, Ss shared in small groups. I’m thinking this is something I want to try for HW, too #G2Great
A4: What's the learning target? What are some ways to reach that target? Not everyone needs the same resources... here are some choices you could try at home. #g2great
A5a: Except for the expecation to read approx 20 minutes a night (anything of their choice) all my homework was voluntary. Using @Flipgrid often, they could decide to do a science experiment at home or share a historical event/item they learned about (or visited) #G2great
A4 One suggestion would be citizenship- helping others, volunteering, etc. Another would be exploration- spending time exploring a topic of passion. #G2great
A4:I do honor Ss desire/initiative to take home books to read with family, math games learned in class to play together and directions for science experiments we’ve done in class. #g2great
#g2great I agree; however, by end of year, I still had a handful of Ss who still hadn't caught the reading bug despite the rest of the class being a strong reading community. So, for those kiddos, choice reading is still a chore...sigh.
A4 Following your train of thought Roman, we do need to find outlets for students to explore their passions through reading, active conversations, and "play". #G2Great
#G2Great A4 my last years in the classroom I utilized 2 online communication tools through which our classroom carried on conversations & debates initiated in class, asked questions, shared ideas, threw out challenges, allowed for creative reflection, it was fun and meaningful!
A5: let kids research a question/wondering/interest. Share that new learning with other students & teachers. I never knew how many Godzilla’s there were until I had a fanatical student who loved writing about them. 🦖#G2Great
A5 First we MUST to loosen the homework reins of control. Too much HW is done to control what happens after kids leave school & not enough as a means to be a force of good. #G2Great
A5b: Ss were also free to continue working on writing or things they had been doing in the classroom. I even had one student create her own math sheet of problems for things she knew she was missing; playing games w fam was also an option #g2great
A5 Work in school, outside of school should have more student choice/voice. We need to value our students and support their needs, passions, interests. If a student is passionate about horses, have the read, research, present on what they need to learn to work with them. #g2great
Yes Jeremy! I love that idea of partnerships… and we have the opportunity to build that bridge between home and school
always so good to see you at #G2Great
A5: My Ss had choice assigned to most of their work this year. They also had choice of what to work on and when. This lead to some homework but the beauty was they chose it. The flexibility really helped make it seem like not really HW #g2great
A4: does anyone have a list of resources they could post on here that we could check later, or maybe we could create a collaborative documentation? #G2Great
A4 Valinda, using the terms you describe will provide students with authentic avenues to explore their passions. Provide choice and pathways for students to engage in meaningful HOME work. #G2Great
A4 One suggestion would be citizenship- helping others, volunteering, etc. Another would be exploration- spending time exploring a topic of passion. #G2great
A5 Curiosity type projects where kids answer one question about something they want to learn more about. Very powerful learning can take place as a result. #g2great
A5. HW is just another way Ts and Ss may feel like school is being done to them, not something they can really learn from. We have to just do it! #G2great
#g2great I wonder if my 4th graders would want to carry their soft start choices into part of their nightly HW - they were writing collaborative stories, including illustrations, reading books together, etc. This is def something to think more about.
#G2Great A5: I have created a monthly calendar with various activities each day for students to complete (not worksheets) and students had to complete at least 10 nights for the month. Complete choice on their part. A lot of planning up front but they were engaged!
A5 If a student loves math, have them discover math in cooking, in construction, in their community. Give them the task of finding their passion in their learning. Guide them and let them reflect, plan, play, process, learn. #g2great
A5 Why wouldn’t voice/choice and interest factor in to HW? Those things aren’t in contradiction to our homework goals but could actually support and enrich them. #G2Great
A5 Teaching in a reading/writing workshop, all of the work Ss did at home was a continuation of what they were choosing to work on in class. Writing, revision, reading... all based as much as possible in student choice. #g2great
A5: Many students this year were really into Legos so students would design structures and bring them in or snap pictures and share with the class their process and what worked/didn’t. Not traditional, but lots of problem solving, discussions, and collaboration #G2Great
A5 HOME work Page Turner: What I learn in school, I want to explore at home. For example: a new genre, a new poetic form, a scientific inquiry. #G2Great
In reply to
@brennanamy, @DrMaryHoward, @hayhurst3, @franmcveigh
Definitely, what you and @LRobbTeacher share are such necessary points. We need to encourage families to play together, to learn together, to be partners. We need to support families having fun & learning together. #g2great
A5 First we MUST to loosen the homework reins of control. Too much HW is done to control what happens after kids leave school & not enough as a means to be a force of good. #G2Great
That's exactly what I mean. In the end, Ts must always think of the Ss and what they need the most. Extra time with homework is not beneficial for anyone. #g2great
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
A4Categories for homework; service projects-how can I help someone else today?, joyful reading experiences-what is a book that made me smile, laugh, cry, think, move to action?; s, led projects-what are you curious about, family field trips #G2Great
A5: HW should include & be centered around student passions. If passion is at the center then innovation & determination are natural. Once Ss find something they love -they want to read/research/do more! Ex: Students to keep a side project to boost engagement #g2great
A3 Only homework I see as worthwhile is free choice reading with no strings. Ss in school for 7 hours plus bus rides. They need time to process their days and pursue music, dance, art, sports or just dream. #g2great
Love the topic and the discussion is always a 10 in #g2great chat... but have to duck out early. Enjoy your upcoming weekend all and thanks again for the inspiring responses.
Q5 It could be more of a weekly task done independently or collaboratively about what they read for choice... create a @BookCreatorApp book including analysis, write a @Kidblog post summarizing important facts, @Flipgrid questions still remaining about the topic... #G2great
All. The. Time for my son!! And he is pulled out of class for multiple interventions! Always something to make-up, often on weekends if not finished during the week. Always worksheets or workbooks 😡 #g2great
A6 Well, we can't know really unless we ask - I wonder have you ever asked? Why not? I think they'd like to do things that involve their friends/family/pets something where they build or create. @brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh@smokeylit#G2Great
A6 Why do we assume that homework is a given? If we do what we need to do at school, shouldn’t we be committed to preserving family time w/options instead of requirements? Just sayin’ #G2Great
With that in mind, I suggest families engaging in @Wonderopolis readings to explore passions. There is plenty of choice with the volume of Wonders of the Day. #inquiry pathways increase students exploration and discovery. #G2Great
In reply to
@NowakRo, @LRobbTeacher, @Wonderopolis
A6: The reality is many would say nothing but not because they are lazy but because they have no time. Kids are over scheduled and over stressed. Now if their homework was report on your fortnite teams stats tomorrow...doable #g2great
A5. HW is just another way Ts and Ss may feel like school is being done to them, not something they can really learn from. We have to just do it! #G2great
A 4 Without formal homework Ss might have time to create categories by doing community service, by helping a friend or family member in need, by making music, drawing, what interests them. No formal categories needed. #g2great
I like the third option -- because it gets them in the habit of reflection, the positive use of technology (fostering digital citizenship), AND it's not daily! #G2Great
A4: I like the idea of HW looking like
1. Something kids are interested in.
2. Something that has them ready for the next day or reflects on that days learning.
3. Might look at a weekly blog post or podcast... hmmm #g2great
A6 So many of them are already creating content outside of school. They write blogs, make movies, write reviews, come up with gaming hacks-- they should be able to get credit for using skills to do things they want to do! #g2great
A5: One way to make hw more child-centered is to allow them to work on their passion project. That could entail interviewing someone, recording the interview, watching a television program or on-line video. #g2great
A6 Well, we can't know really unless we ask - I wonder have you ever asked? Why not? I think they'd like to do things that involve their friends/family/pets something where they build or create. @brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh@smokeylit#G2Great
A6 At first, students don't know what to choose, they are used to being told what to do. If you give them a voice, you will be surprised. Many want to create authentic learning pieces that are meaningful to them. From music, to art, to writing, to cooking. Many options. #g2great
A5 1/2 Inquiry is the best way to facilitate this, I think. Example: We did a KWL a few years ago b4 Great Depression unit. One S said, "I heard NASCAR got it's start during this time." Me: "That's interesting, why don't you find out 2nite." He did and found he was #g2great
A6: I've been watching my daughter (who just finished 1st grade last month) this summer. She's been writing stories and asking me to read nonfiction science books w/her. What if freedom for kids to explore their passions happened during the school year? #G2Great
A5 It could be more of a weekly task done independently or collaboratively about what they read for choice... create a @BookCreatorApp book including analysis, write a @Kidblog post summarizing important facts, @Flipgrid questions still remaining about the topic... #G2great
A6: I doubt Ss would elect to do homework in its traditional iterations. Work with students to find out what they are interested in and what’s important to them and go from there. #G2Great
A5 would love to see homework as meaningful to student and family, not a burden but a shared interest with much consideration for time and circumstances. #G2Great
A6: I've been watching my daughter (who just finished 1st grade last month) this summer. She's been writing stories and asking me to read nonfiction science books w/her. What if freedom for kids to explore their passions happened during the school year? #G2Great
A6 If we are creating lifelong readers who love reading then that is going to stretch into their home lives. Making this a focus with access to books is as major priority. #G2Great
A6: Ask students to create a presentation proposal based on a personal topic of interest like we do for @ncte@ILAToday or @writingproject. It is not often students are asked to study what they want to investigate. #G2great
Oh, that is terrible, Kristen! I feel for your son. Wrong on so many levels. One because he's being asked to make up work and two because it's worksheets! #G2great
A6: So, yes, if students were given more freedom and choice (like they have over the summer), I think they'd engage in meaningful projects and endeavors just like my kiddo is doing this summer. #G2Great
A3: Give students choice when it comes to HW. For dig. stories some prefer the quiet of their home to record their voice. Some homes are not so quiet. Extend deadlines to midnight or over the weekend due those who need more time. Let Ss know you honor their time. #g2great
All. The. Time for my son!! And he is pulled out of class for multiple interventions! Always something to make-up, often on weekends if not finished during the week. Always worksheets or workbooks 😡 #g2great
A6: I think more kids would read books that matter to them and more kids would do writing that mattered to them if they were given the chance to design more meaningful homework. #G2Great
A5: On of my favorite assignments/events of the year...Ss are invited to create a CHOICE project that reflects their research learning from RW, WW & Science...then we open our doors to classes & families and host a museum style event to showcase their work #G2Great
Yes! Time for play is essential—time to imagine, create, experiment, and get curious. Play is an important part of learning AND living. @LRobbTeacher#g2great
I don’t see that as homework. It comes in student-centered classes where Ss can find their passions and WANT guidance with books and materials. In this scenario, not everyone would do extra work. Time to play is so important—I worry Ss don’t know how to play. #g2great
#G2Great A6: I think students would enjoy HW that involves family, friends, and fun engaging activities. Or even something as simple as writing a narrative about baseball practice, dinner conversations, or the ride home from after school. But first we have to ask them!
A6: My students loved interviewing family members and sharing what they learned, volunteering, reading to others, designing games, art, building, and continuing independent writing projects. None of this was forced or assigned so they got to choose what and when #G2Great
A6 Perhaps we need to start with what are the passions that students want to explore. Then, move to how do we do this in an effective after school manner. Can we encourage #parents to be involved? This takes conversations with all stakeholders. #G2Great
In reply to
@brennanamy, @DrMaryHoward, @hayhurst3, @franmcveigh
This is what I send home with my students the first week of school. We then have conversations every few days about the “at-home learning” they’ve been doing. The convos are critically important for Ss to understand the learning that is always taking place on their lives!#g2great
In reply to
@brennanamy, @DrMaryHoward, @hayhurst3, @franmcveigh
A5 2/2 ...mistaken. He got all kinds of new information about prohibition. He took several minutes to share with the class. I got to give feedback about checking your own facts a.k.a. *clearing up misconceptions* thru research. #g2great
A5 W/ our inquiry into photography, after conversations on Ansel Adams, looks at illustrations & apprenticing at school, Ss created a short series of photos at home (either w/ cls camera or on Ps), sent them to sch & taught abt their decisions made as a photographer. #G2Great
This was me in third grade. The other kids didn't have to do the work at home. Not sure why there's such an emphasis on completing tasks than just assuring that learning is happening. #G2Great
Has anyone come across Ts that assign work that was not finished in class as homework? "Oh, that's okay if you don't finish now; you can finish for homework." I hear that so often when I come to pull Ss out. #g2great
A6 I’d be thrilled if kids opted for self-selected reading/writing. They would if this were a central feature of a learning day. I can assure you that worksheet packets would NOT be on their wish list. #G2Great
A6 I’d be thrilled if kids opted for self-selected reading/writing. They would if this were a central feature of a learning day. I can assure you that worksheet packets would NOT be on their wish list. #G2Great
A7. If the "work" has 'worth" or value to the family, it's not seen as an unbearable task to be checked off. Something that will be shared at school has value/purpose.
#g2great
A6 Why do we assume that homework is a given? If we do what we need to do at school, shouldn’t we be committed to preserving family time w/options instead of requirements? Just sayin’ #G2Great
HW should include an ongoing project that can continuously evolve, grow knowledge, nurture creativity, and uncover hidden talents/ passion. Students are creating the future...lets start with letting them guide their HW and be leaders of their learning. #g2great
A6: HW that involves their interests & talents...a chance to explore & create...during our poetry unit in WW, I give every S a pocket-sized notebook & invite them to write as they wish...those little books come back packed with ideas ✨ #G2Great
A6 My daughter dances very night of the week. She once did a science project on how her heart rate varied in different styles of dance. Other Ss who cook for family every night could create a list of favorite recipes. Lots of options if we expand definition of homework. #G2great
A7: What if we asked parents this question before the school year began? Their answers may provide some eye-opening answers that can help us change the course of their child's school year. #G2Great
A7 We can begin by being VERY clear about what we value as educators. Until we can verbalize what matters, all else will be forever clouded by professional confusion. #G2Great
A 6 we can ask them. Why do we have to have homework? There’s other kinds of learning and school subjects are not the only thing. I feel our Ss don’t know what to do with unstructured time—& that’s needed for imagination to develop. #g2great
A7 Design learning with students/parents. Include families, cultures, communities in the learning process. If we want impact, a difference, we need to think divergently. Build students/families up with fun learning, with togetherness, with community at heart. #g2great
A7: being flexible in our thinking...knowing our Ss and their families & truly considering what’s best for a child...the opportunity to read, play, relax & spend time with their families is what’s most important during non-school hours #G2Great
A6 Something they care about! How will we know? We'll talk about it! We'll have cls conversations, listening deeply & thinking out-of-the-box (w/ parents, too) so that everyone can see the real possibilities of meaningful work that makes a difference in all our lives. #G2great
A7: I like the idea of asking parents what they think about homework and the reality of time being available for the kids to work with support at home. Voice and choice parent edition. #g2great
#G2Great A7: Engaging the family in HW activities is the only way to link home & school. Incorporating parent perspectives, interests and strengths into HW can truly close the gap and make it a priority for both home and school
If we want to redefine learning/homework, let us Empty them into the Gift Shop. A must listen video from @burgessdave
Please watch and share. Be inspired.
https://t.co/WDxosEhOds#g2great
A7 I think inviting Ss to share what they are doing in class, reflecting on their reading and writing with parents *as "homework"), is a great home/school connector. There's nothing cooler than a kid saying, "I can't return it yet, my mom wants to read this book!" #g2great
#g2great This statement supports the "why" behind sharing Ts beliefs, whether there are 2 or 22! Being transparent about what we value will only help us help our Ss.
A6 Quoting @smokeylit from @ERobbPrincipal Robb Review: Homework alternative--Work on an ongoing “passion project,” something you have decided to look into long-term (animal extinction, volcanoes, the Cold War). #g2great
A7: What if we asked parents this question before the school year began? Their answers may provide some eye-opening answers that can help us change the course of their child's school year. #G2Great
A7. Must know Ss.
Cannot assign on line work if not internet access.
Cannot assign projects that require stuff to be "bought" if SES does not allow.
Be thoughtful.
#G2Great
It's never been clear to me as a parent what expectations schools have of teachers in this area. How much should it vary depending on what teacher a kid happens to get? #G2Great
A7 There have been lots of great ideas shared so far: ask Ss,encourage curiosity projects, allow time for sharing in class, find ways for Ss to expand their idea of HW to play, service projects, sports, etc. I’m already developing a plan of sorts in my head for Sep. #g2great
A7 Some of my most vivid and precious memories are of my parents reading to me as a child. I think that the more we can help support families as a community of readers outside of school, the better! #G2Great
I love this conversation. Still not sure why HW is still something that is utilized in so many classrooms but the ideas of what HW could look like have been great. #g2great
Thank for you for the great reflection, learning and chat among friends. Love the #g2great community. You always push me to be better! Happy Thursday! May your work be filled with passion!
A6 I’d like to ask students, “What puzzled you today? What excited you today? What do you want to understand better? How do you want to explore these questions? Then step aside. #G2Great
Also important to know how long it takes some students to complete assignments. Hard to tell Ss to stop after a certain amt of time and not worry about finishing. #G2Great
A7 Let’s go back to the research & inform ourselves 1st. If our practices is at odds w/ research, kids will be on the receiving end of foolishness. Let’s not let that happen. #G2Great
For some Ss it is a delicate decision and can have an enormous effect. It can help the S at home as much as at school. #g2great My suggestions are presented to admin.
Trust me, Mary - there’s little that Kitty would prefer to be doing than spending these few days at the conference with you! How very kind of you to invite her!
In reply to
@DrMaryHoward, @donohoe_kitty, @franmcveigh
My goodness I love #g2great for my brain and heart and #bekindEDU for my heart and soul. Bonus is that my friends are the moderators haha :) Great chat tonight.
A6 More from @smokeylit on homework:
--Pick an adult in the community you want to learn from and apprentice yourself.
--Go online to investigate a question that popped up in your life today.
#g2great
I can certainly understand your daughter's need for play time and down time. 💗 Think how we often feel at the end of a long day. #kidsarepeopletoo#g2great
#g2great This is a responsive classroom belief...admittedly a very hard philosophy to embrace due to societal pressures. I've reached a compromise: writing board is blank, ready for Ss to decorate w/names & words, reading has recs from l/y class & a wall awaits Ss hopes & dreams.
A7 Let’s go back to the research & inform ourselves 1st. If our practices is at odds w/ research, kids will be on the receiving end of foolishness. Let’s not let that happen. #G2Great
A7: Making sure homework is a continuation of student selected goals, interests, and passions. Thinking of ways to incorporate family time, creativity, and play #G2Great
My goodness I love #g2great for my brain and heart and #bekindEDU for my heart and soul. Bonus is that my friends are the moderators haha :) Great chat tonight.
A7 At Curriculum Nights and thru blogs & videos, showcase possibilities of engagements that kids have tried - and/or families have done. Then, leave it up to the fams to decide what fits them best. #G2great
Passion projects can be very structured or not so that Ss have a lot of choice. I’ve discovered that quick, high interest ?s that Ss are interested in studying & finding answers 2 work well. They can be completed in a relatively short time and it feels satisfying 2 Ss. #G2Great
A 4 Probably not give any. Instead let Ss have conversations, interact with family and friends. My wise grandma, when I’d complain I had nothing to do, always said, “knock your head against the wall 3 times & you’ll think of something!” Develop the creative part of Ss #g2great
