This post is more of a note-to-self than anything else. Here are some things that worked for me when teaching Science 9 Remediation:
1.) Many small assignments is a good idea - Students will blow off some assignments in a remedial course. Especially in the summer. Making them do many small assignments better ensures they will turn in more, providing them with a better chance to pass.
2.) Marking on effort - I am telling students that a few assignments will be given my highest grade, (Meeting Expectations) for having all questions complete (even if they are wrong) and also turning it in on time. Students in the remedial course often got there by not completing and turning in homework. This rewards them for correcting a bad habit. Plus, they never know which assignment will be accepted in this manner.
3.) Saving review sessions for the end of class - Some kids want to stop working in the last 10 minutes of class, and just "do it later." This "do it later" attitude is what hurt their grades in the first place. I want them to work to the ends of class, so that develop a good work ethic and do not feel overwhelmed with homework.
4.) Clockwatching - Some of my students start to take it easy with 10 minutes to go. I usually say to the class that if many of them have their books closed, we should review the section on ______ by doing problems on the board that will be turned in for marks on completion and effort. This takes little or no prep time, and little marking time on my part, and teaches them to work to the end of the period.
1 comment:
I like the end of class review idea. I had similar experiences with my summer schoolers in terms of doing their work. Effort based, short assignments works well.
Have you heard of the idea of exit tickets? It sounds similar to what you are doing.
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