How to Do Homework

(including all the silly little details…)

1. Set up a regular time to do homework every day. 2. Find a place you can be comfortable and undisturbed. Have something to drink/munch on. Music is good, if it helps you focus. TV is bad. 3. Have your notes and text out, and open to the appropriate pages. Refer to both often as you work. 4. Read and WRITE down an abbreviated version of the directions for each problem set. The directions on the test will then make more sense… 5. Read and WRITE down the problem, including any related diagram (draw your own, if one is not provided and it’s appropriate to do so). 6. Make sure you understand not only what the problem is asking for, but also how to show work. If necessary, compare the problem to the example referenced in the margin of the text and/or the example done in class notes. 7. Show as much work as you possibly can. Most points come from work shown; the answer is usually worth nothing.  If I can’t follow your work, I can’t correct your errors… and neither can you! 8. Check answers to odd numbered problems in the “Selected Answers” section at the back of the text. 9. Check red circled problems in the “Worked-Out Solutions” section at the back of the text. 10. I don’t assign problems willy-nilly. Every problem I assign has a reason, and every problem can potentially be assigned to you to be worked at the board. Attempt every problem; leave space and ask questions about the ones you don’t get! I’m usually available before/after school. 11. Include a complete heading on every assignment (name, period, section, pages, problems assigned).