Losing Homework/Leaving it at home
It is impossible for anyone to say at some point they have not forgotten or misplaced something important. In elementary school, students are just beginning to build skills such as remembering homework and keeping track of important papers and due dates. Prior to entering school, they have had few experiences that have not only required them to recall important concepts to complete assignments, but also remember when these assignments must be completed and keep track of them until that date. In the lower grades, this procedure is heavily scaffolded by the teacher and supported by the parents. Homework folders are given out and parents are asked to sign assignments when completed. As students grow, they are given more responsibility in terms of completing their homework and making sure it is turned in on the correct day. This is an essential skill they must develop before entering middle school, and will continue to be useful throughout their schooling and into future employment.
- End Of The Day Checklist: At the end of the day, write a checklist on the board of all homework and papers the students should have with them to bring home and what they must remember to bring the next day. Have the students read the list orally, as a whole class to ensure everyone has seen and read it. In a smaller setting, such as a resource room, you could have students place checkmarks next to each item that is in their backpack or folder. This helps them remember everything they need before they leave.
- Homework Help Sessions; Print Extras: At the elementary school level homework can often be used as an assessment. Does the student remember the instruction? How well do they understand a new concept? Are they ready to move onto the next level? While it is ideal to have the work completed at home, if the student forgets the assignment it is just as easy to complete the work during school. If you have a pre-existing homework club or help session, have the students who forgot their homework attend this meeting as well. Remember to print extra copies of the homework for the students who have lost it. This also provides a time for students who deliberately did not complete the homework one-on-one time with the teacher to receive assistance.
- Homework Points: Give your students one point everyday they remember to complete and bring in their homework. Students may then use these points to purchase things at from the class store.