For the past few years I haven't given a lot of homework. I try to give plenty of time to accomplish all projects/assignments in class. One such time that doesn't happen, is if students are unable to finish the math assignment during their work time then it is sent as homework. Other than that my homework is simple.
Click HERE if you would like a copy of my weekly homework sheet.
In my classroom required homework is to read every night - 20 minutes. Study your spelling and work on your math facts. See simple. All of these things are things that need to be done to help a child succeed.
Now wait. I know that many of you believe, like I do, that spelling is a waste of time. However, I have worked in schools and districts that feel that spelling is essential. Therefore, since I appreciate my job, I am willing to do spelling. In later years I have found a slight way around the spelling concept. Instead of simply studying lists of unrelated words, we have used lists of greek and latin root words....I love these! A simple list of 5-10 words. Before I get too far off topic let's just say these are amazing. I will have to post about them on a later day.
Back to homework...
It doesn't matter if you are in 2nd grade or 6th grade math facts should be incorporated into weekly study. I haven't met a child yet who doesn't improve by spending a few extra minutes working on their math facts. We work on math facts in our class on Mondays as a part of Math Fact Mondays but the constant practice at home is extremely beneficial.
I know of a colleague that uses the math fact boxes not as math facts practice but as a way to mark off their work on Aleks. Either way a few extra minutes working on math never hurt anyone.
Finally, reading. Reading daily doesn't have to be painful. It just needs to happen. Knowing how many minutes and how many pages are read every night can help me, as a teacher understand a lot about a student. If you are reading every night for hours and only make it though a small number of pages than I know you are really struggling or the book you are reading at home may be a tad too hard.
Each week I can spend only minutes glancing over this homework sheet to know if my students are completing the tasks I have asked of them.
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Need some math facts game ideas? Try out these:
Today's games are made by the same company. You can change easily change the type of facts and numbers your child/student is seeing. The first is more of a timed fact practice. You can play against the computer or play split screen and "duel" against a classmate.
Grades 1-5 Monster Math Duels - This is the one that lets you duel with a split screen.
At the top it tells you what the answer should be - in this screens shots case what the sum should be. Your job is to tap on all of the equations equaling to that numbers. As you get better you have to move around to beat the clock and not get eaten by the other monster present.
Or duel
When on dueling mode you are able to play so that both students are able to work on the level that is right for them. In the above picture you will notice that on the "mom" side all of those blobs are using division while Jack's side is practicing addition.
Monster Math - Free Children's Education Games for Learning...
The second is presented in more of a storyboard format. You answer select facts along your journey through the monster world.
