Author Nancy Paulu recommends these tips for teachers who give homework:
* Lay out homework expectations early in the school year.* Create assignments with a purpose, and make sure students understand that purpose.
* Make assignments clear and focused
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* Create assignments that challenge students to think and integrate.
* Vary assignments. (Students get bored with the "same-old-same-old.")
* Give homework that makes learning personal (for example, assignments that allow students to draw upon their family, cultural, and community experiences).
* Tie assignments to the present. (Students often complain that they can't relate to assignments involving events that took place in the distant past.)
* Match assignments to the skills, interests, and needs of students.
* Use school and community resources.
* Match assignments to your style of teaching.
* Assign an appropriate amount of homework, and keep alert to how long students take to complete assignments.
* Encourage and teach good study habits.
* Provide constructive feedback.
* Give praise, and motivate.
