Homework

Implementation

Some children miss assignments, forget to write down their homework or don’t bring completed tasks with them. With a few simple habits and consistently applied structures, you can ensure that all children keep up better.

• Always write homework in the same place on the board, for example top right. Only use this one place for it and write preferably in a striking colour. This way children know exactly where to look.
• Also always note homework at the same time, for example in the last 10 minutes of the lesson. Briefly go to the children who are slower or easily drift off in thought, and check whether they have noted the homework.
• Always announce homework with the same words, for example: ‘The homework for tomorrow is:’. Many children simply don’t consciously hear vague formulations like ‘finish that off’. Additionally support this moment with a fixed acoustic signal, for example a gong or a singing bowl, which is used exclusively for the homework entry.
• You can also introduce a partner system: children briefly compare their homework books with their neighbour at the end of the lesson. Five minutes are sufficient for this.

It is also recommended to consistently enter homework via a school app such as Escola or Klapp. This way parents receive a direct notification and can specifically remind their child at home. The child practises personal responsibility but at the same time knows that there is a net to catch them.

Material

Planner or homework diary, singing bowl, school app (Escola, Klapp)

References:

After: Fabian Grolimund, Stefanie Ritzler

Edited by: Jean-Daniel Roth, Selin Güler

Source: elpos Switzerland, ADHD organisation. (2016). ADHD at school (2nd ed.). elpos Switzerland.

Further ADHD knowledge: elpos Shop