I am opposed to homework, however, I believe that it is very important for students to independently practice concepts that we learn in class. This is the main reason that homework is assigned. Below are my reasons for assigning homework in order from most important to least important.
Homework is supposed to provide
- an independent practice of concepts we have learned
- an opportunity for students to determine which concepts they undestand well, and which they need to learn better
- a previewfor concepts we will cover
- a responsible routine to prepare for future courses
Whenever possible, homework will actually be classwork that students can get a start on and complete in class. This is may not happen very often, but it is a goal of mine, that I strive towards in building lesson plans.
When homework does go home, it should not be a tortourous activity. I expect students to either complete the assignment or spend at least 30 focused minutes attempting to work through the problems to the best of their ability. If students are not capable of completing the assignment, I think it is perfectly reasonable for them to set it aside until they come back to class as long as they have invested their sincere effort and have specific questions that I can answer to help them complete the assignment the next evening. I would assume that students with neither completed homework nor specific questions did not actually try to do the homework.