1. Chapter 10: Homework and Practice

2. Homework Generalizations The amount of homework assigned to students should be different from elementary to high school. Parental involvement in doing homework should be kept to a minimum. The purpose of homework should be identified and articulated. If homework is assigned, it should be commented upon.

3. Homework Recommendations Establish and communicate a homework policy. Design homework assignments that clearly articulate purpose and outcome. Vary approaches to providing feedback.

4. Practice Generalizations Mastering a skill or process requires a fair amount of focused practice. While practicing, students should adapt and shape what they have learned. Typically, students need about 24 practice sessions with a skill in order to achieve 80 percent competency.

5. Practice Recommendations Ask students to chart their speed and accuracy. Design practice assignments that focus on specific elements of a complex skill or process. Plan time for students to increase their conceptual understanding of skills or processes.

6. Technology Technology facilitates homework and practice by providing a wealth of resources for learning outside of the classroom. Word Processing Spreadsheet Software Multimedia Web Resources Communication Software

7. Multimedia New software titles emerge so often. Here is a list of regularly updated resources that recognize the best educational software. www.computedgazette.com/page3.html www.computedgazette.com/page11.html www.techlearning.com www.eschoolnews.com/resources/surveys/editorial/rca/ www.siia.net/codies http://school.discovery.com/parents/reviewcorner/softwar e/ http://school.discovery.com/parents/reviewcorner/softwar e/

8. Web Resources Allows students to practice concepts and skills repeatedly from their homes. Recommended Web Sites to use for homework and practice: http://www.brainpop.com www.iknowthat.com www.flashcardexchange.com www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise www.explorelearning.com www.stellarium.org