Homework, Busywork & Missing Work

an exploration of how homework relates to, inhibits, and supports learning in the

classroom

By Jeff Luttermoser

jal29@scasd.org

Homework 1

Homework 2

Modern Classics

Senior level literature course

Two sections, 20-25 students each

Reading The Kite Runner

Homework included out of class reading, journal response writing, and discussion development exercises

Homework Data fromModern Classics, The Kite Runner Unit:

82% of work turned in on time9% of work not turned in at all

9% of work turned in late

Reading Bel CantoNo homework was given

All writing, reading, & activities were done in class

Homework Data fromModern Classics, Bel Canto Unit:

(currently in unit)

90% of work turned in on time4% of work not turned in at all

6% of work turned in late

? Inquiries ?

What types of homework are getting done more frequently

than others?

 Is there a meaningful connection between homework and what is

learned?

 What happens when you make the classroom a productive space?

Alfie Kohn

1.“The negative effects of homework are well known.”

2.“The positive effects of homework are largely mythical.”

3.“More homework is being piled on children despite the absence of its value.”

“We’ve decided ahead of time that children will have

to do something every night (or several times a

week). Later on we’ll figure out what to make them do.” – Alfie Kohn

What We Can DoRethink standardized “homework policies.”

Reduce the amount.

Change the default.

Teachers assign only

what they design.

Use homework as an

opportunity to involve

students in decision-making.

Ask the students.

What Do the Students Think?

New Inquiries

Is it feasible to avoid giving homework and still accomplish all that is required of you and your students by the state standards?

 

Is it feasible to design different kinds of homework for different students for

different lessons?

 

How much authority can we give to our students regarding their own education

and growth, without doing them a disservice or misguiding them?

Resources

Bennett, Sara, and Nancy Kalish. "The Case Against Homework." The Case Against Homework. N.p., 2003. Web. 13 Apr. 2013.

Burke, Jim, and Mary Frances. Claggett. The English Teachers' Companion: A Complete Guide to Classroom, Curriculum, and the Profession. Portsmouth, NH: Boynton/Cook, 1999. Print.

Kindlon, Daniel J. Tough Times, Strong Children: Lessons from the past for Your Children's Future. New York: Miramax /Hyperion, 2003. Print.

Kohn, Alfie. The Homework Myth: Why Our Kids Get Too Much of a Bad Thing. Cambridge, Mass.: Da Capo Lifelong, 2007. Print.

Kohn, Alfie. "The Truth About Homework." The Truth About Homework. N.p., 2006. Web. 13 Apr. 2013.