Unhomework: How to get the most out of homework, without really setting it - Softcover

Mark Creasy

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1781351090 ISBN 13: 9781781351093

Publisher: Independent Thinking Press an imprint of Crown House Publishing, 2014

Synopsis

In a dynamic and ever changing education climate it is important to re-evaluate practice in schools on a regular basis in order to ensure that we are doing the right thing for our children. With questions being raised over the value of homework, Mark Creasy advises teachers and parents on how to get the most out of homework without letting it get in the way of their lives. This book questions the necessity of homework while recognising that most teachers have a statutory duty to provide it. The author provides suggestions for how teachers can make homework more effective, applicable and less pointless; organising classroom learning to allow children to set their own homework and creating opportunities for learning out of everyday situations. Founded on over 10 years' of Mark's real teaching practice in both primary and secondary schools Unhomework is entertaining as well as informative, being underpinned by personal anecdotes from his teaching career. It challenges the current status quo of traditionally set homework and provides an insight for parents and educators about how homework can be done differently, for greater effect as an extension to classroom practice. Unhomework is based on the 5Rs and these are detailed for teachers to implement to secure Unhomework successfully. With practical ideas for teachers across year groups and subjects to use Unhomework is for teachers (Year 3-13) at all stages of the profession, senior managers in primary and secondary phases, independent and state sectors, parents, teacher trainers.

About this title

About the Author

Mark Creasy is a dedicated father and teacher at an independent school in Buckinghamshire. His contemporary and down-to-earth style of teaching has allowed him to view learning as a tool, not a rule, to ensure that his pupils are given the right to an education that suits their needs and maximises their potential for future success.

From the Back Cover

This book, drawn from genuine classroom experience, is full of tips and ideas designed to help teachers make the move from setting homework to encouraging children to take responsibility for their own work.
Of all the aspects of day-to-day school life, the one that causes the most aggro and unpleasantness for children, their teachers and their parents is homework. That said, of all the aspects of day-to-day school life, the one that could add the most value to childrens' school experience, to their approach to learning, to their achievements in the classroom and to their success beyond school as independent, resilient and resourceful life-long learners is ... homework. But homework approached in a very different manner.
Mark's theory of Unhomework makes differentiating for every learner both simple and tactful. His innovative approach is sensitive to all three faces of the homework experience - learner, teacher and parent.
Isabella Wallace, education consultant, author and presenter, founder and managing trustee of Reach Out 2 Schools
At a time when a curriculum and exam-driven education system straitjackets even the most dynamic teacher Unhomework inspires the practitioner not only to facilitate thinking skills and PLTS but also to build in opportunities for young learners to become creative, critical thinkers.
Sarah Noble, head of department, modern foreign languages
With this book, Mark Creasy has tackled an area of education (homework) which has long needed addressing. As a Year 4 teacher, I can readily connect with his ideas and the thinking behind Unhomework. I am sure that other teachers will do the same.
Davina Suggett, Year 4 teacher
Unhomework addresses the issue of how to involve everyone. There are examples and resources to help practitioners, from NQTs to head teachers, get started.
Ruth Saxton, primary teacher, AST in creativity and chair of the National Association for the Teaching of Drama
This is a book with plenty of ideas for teachers and practical ways for parents to support their children.
Beverley Dandy, head teacher, Outwoods Primary School
Unhomework will give you the inspiration and practical guidance you need to break free from the 'curse of the worksheet'.
Dave Whitaker, executive principal, Springwell Community Special School and Barnsley PRU
I would recommend Unhomework to every teacher and challenge them, whether they are in primary or secondary school, to implement it for just one term and evaluate the results.
Denise Yates, chief executive, Potential Plus UK formerly the National Association for Gifted Children)
Mark Creasy teaches in Buckinghamshire. His contemporary and down-to-earth style of teaching has allowed him to view learning as a tool, not a rule, to ensure that his pupils are given the right to an education that suits their needs and maximises their potential for future success.

Edition details

• Publisher: Independent Thinking Press an imprint of Crown House Publishing
• Publication date: 2014
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1781351090
• ISBN 13: 9781781351093
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160