Homework, Busywork & Missing Work an exploration of how homework relates to, inhibits, and supports learning in the classroom By Jeff Luttermoser

Homework 1

Homework 2

Modern Classics Senior level literature course Two sections, students each

Reading The Kite Runner Homework included out of class reading, journal response writing, and discussion development exercises Homework Data from Modern Classics, The Kite Runner Unit: 82% of work turned in on time 9% of work not turned in at all 9% of work turned in late

Reading Bel Canto No homework was given All writing, reading, & activities were done in class Homework Data from Modern Classics, Bel Canto Unit: (currently in unit) 90% of work turned in on time 4% 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 Do Rethink 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., Web. 13 Apr Burke, Jim, and Mary Frances. Claggett. The English Teachers' Companion: A Complete Guide to Classroom, Curriculum, and the Profession. Portsmouth, NH: Boynton/Cook, Print. Kindlon, Daniel J. Tough Times, Strong Children: Lessons from the past for Your Children's Future. New York: Miramax /Hyperion, Print. Kohn, Alfie. The Homework Myth: Why Our Kids Get Too Much of a Bad Thing. Cambridge, Mass.: Da Capo Lifelong, Print. Kohn, Alfie. "The Truth About Homework." The Truth About Homework. N.p., Web. 13 Apr