Helpful Homework in Geometry: A Redesigned Circles Unit

Abstract

Homework has been part of the educational system for many decades. During this time, public opinion has varied greatly on its usefulness in the classroom. Much of the more recent research has focused on the idea that homework can be valuable to students when the assignments are meaningful, as opposed to homework that is assigned with little or no purpose. This research was analyzed to find patterns in the various definitions of meaningful homework. It was found that meaningful homework generally contains the following qualities: brevity, choice, defined purpose, real-world connections, hands-on components, rigor through synthesis, the integration of technology or web-based activities, opportunities for family involvement, and the substantial incorporation of previously taught topics. Based on these findings, a Geometry unit on circles was redesigned to combine these elements into practical lessons, as an example to educators of how to begin making homework more constructive in the mathematics classroom.