Quick Tips for Teachers: Homework Cards

Use this homework card system to encourage and reward responsibility in the area of homework.

At the beginning of the year, or the marking period, give each student a 5"x8" index card.  Have each student write her name on the top line of the card, and begin numbering the lines along the edge of the card.  Choose a target number of days students will need to complete all assignments in order to receive a reward (10 is a good one to start with).

For each day that a student completes and hands in all homework assignments given, she receives a stamp on her card. Using a simple date stamp works well, as it gives you a record of the dates homework was completed, and it fits nicely on the index card lines.  When a student has earned ten (or your target number) stamps, allow the student to choose a sticker or other classroom reward.  Students continue to use the same card to accumulate stamps until it is full (make several columns of stamps).

Students will feel a sense of accomplishment as they see the columns of stamps add up, and as their responsibility for their homework pays off!

Be sure to see my series on homework. The first post is here:  Homework Q&A: Assignments.

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Copyright 2012 Irene Taylor.All rights reserved.