VIII. Homework- the biggest single problem area!

A. Analyze where in the chain of events there is a breakdown

1. Tracking the assignments, e.g. knowing what they are

2. Bringing home the materials

3. Having a regular time and non-distracting environment

4. Organized plan of attack

5. Getting started, e.g. procrastination

6. Keeping going, e.g. poor sustained attention and effort

7. Parental monitoring of homework, e.g. parents in the house

8. Carelessness

9. Lack of understanding

10. Losing homework before turning it in

B. Divide up Responsibility for Homework

1. Student record assignments, show assignment book to parents, work out a daily homework plan, start homework, finish homework, manage interference, hand it in. But not only role.

2. Teacher keep amount of homework reasonable, clearly write down assignments on the board, prompt student to use assignment books, prompt turning in assignments, break large assignments into shorter components, give timely feedback on assignments

3. Parents actively monitor assignment book, go over daily homework plan, be present when you expect homework done, check up on teen, ask to see output, help with general organization, seek needed accommodations from the school.

4. Therapist oversee development of comprehensive homework plan, teach teen and parents specific skills, help parents approaching the school.

C. Develop a Comprehensive Homework Plan and Implement It. See table 3 for an example.

D. Therapist Monitors Implementation of Plan Over Time Through

1. Discussion with teen and family

2. Weekly progress reports

3. Periodic school meetings

4. Phone contact with school

5. Report cards

E. Request Accommodations needed from the teacher

1. Shortening the assignments

2. Writing out the assignments for students or mailing them in advance

3. Giving credit for late assignments-mixed blessing

4. Grading on content, not appearance or spelling

5. A second set of textbooks to keep at home

6. Providing an alternative text at a simpler reading level

7. Organizational checks in school

8. Assistance from TC in Learning resource Center

See Table 3, a sample homework plan.