Homework is essential for almost any subject, and in foreign language especially. In foreign language classes, I feel like homework should be given almost every night. However, it should be a moderate amount of work that shouldn't take too much time. The assignments should revolve around the lesson that were just taught that day, as a way to reinforce the information presented. Often times when a teacher is presenting a new concept, the entire class period is spent introducing that new topic - there isn't much time devoted to practicing. I have found that only through homework can I find out if I really understand the new information. When introducing a new lesson, I think it is important that homework starts as simple as possible, only practicing the new information, and eventually increases in difficulty, incorporating other knowledge of the language previously learned.
I think homework should be assigned after the lesson is taught. There is nothing more frustrating and discouraging than struggling with concepts never seen before. I believe that homework is improperly used when it is assigned before a lesson - because you are practically setting your students up for failure. Overall, I think homework is meant to be a link between class periods. You are assigned work based off of what you learned that day, so the next day you can move further. When homework isn't assigned after a new concept is taught, the next day students seem to have forgotten much of the information. This causes the teacher to have to reteach, which overall is a loss of time.
The video was enjoyable to watch, because all of the suggestions were very doable. I was surprised to learn that students who study with natural sunlight statistically get better grades. When I do work outside I am often distracted by the nice weather and everything that is going on around me. I also found it interesting that it suggested listening to music while studying. I can listen to music, on an extremely low volume, if I am doing worksheets or answering questions. However, when I am reading and sometimes writing I find music very distracting.
I feel the same way about the why or reason of homework. It's meant to keep the students thinking about and practicing the lesson(s) that were taught in class that day. There just isn't enough time to both learn the lesson and apply it.
ReplyDeleteHomework has always been my way of self-checking whether or not I understand the subject as well, which is why I whole-heartedly agree that homework needs to be after the lesson as opposed to before it. Going home, doing the homework, and by doing it correctly shows you that you know the subject and is very satisfying. However, doing the homework, and then going to class only to find out you understood it wrong, seems absolutely pointless.
ReplyDeleteI'm also surprised by the result that study under the natural sunlight can get better grades, because I'm one of those students who have higher study efficiency in the night with desk light on. And music distracts me too. The effectiveness of these tips given by the video depends on individual's learning styles.
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