Show My Homework

Incredible!

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 07:45:04 +0000

Incredible!

Awesome Article Featuring Show My Homework

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 11:18:57 +0100

Awesome Article Featuring Show My Homework

How do you get Outstanding Outcomes for Homework?

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:11:46 +0100

One of the key findings from Ofsted inspections show time and time again the impact, consistency, clarity and routines have on students.

Our readers are made up largely of senior leaders and middle managers, so this won’t be ground breaking information in the first instance but what I’m about to tell you will certainly help you improve homework and get support from parents.

As an aspiring leader myself, I know the difficulties we share of embedding new new policies, processes and tools. It’s certainly not easy within a school but do this right, the benefits can be incredible for your colleagues and for the learning experience students receive.

My tool, Show My Homework is being embedded into school policies as a must have for the provision of homework for over 33,000 students. If homework is important to your school and you want to improve it or get it to work the way you want to, it needs to be consistent, tracked and monitored across the school. Can you do that right now? More often than not the honest answer is ‘No’. Its ‘No’ because its difficult, painstakingly time intensive and requires a lot of effort. This leads to situations where students can get away with not doing homework, teachers can get away with not setting it and opens the door for parents to complain at Parent evening about the lack of homework.

I’m really passionate about introducing classroom tools that work for me and work for my colleagues who teach, day-in, day-out.

If you’d like to find out more about Show My Homework, please read Horndean Technology College’s Case Study or visit http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

If you find this post of genuine interest and would like to explore options to put in place consistency, clarity and routines with homework, please get in touch.

I know together we can make an immediate impact.

Are you responsible for IT at school? Where will you go for advice?

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 10:06:00 +0100

When I joined Henry Compton school as the E-learning Director, one of my first jobs was to roll out Fronter, the London Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) of choice, and get everyone engaged to use it. Now there is no denying that Fronter is packed full of features, but Fronter is just one example of software and technology recommended to teachers by government officials and consultants who have become removed from the classroom. I believe teachers’ needs have been forgotten and ignored when it has come down to purchasing software and hardware. For years, technology has been chosen for them with an expectation that they will use it and benefit. But technology can be just as painful as beneficial if it is not fit for purpose and implemented with the end user in mind. Even today, most IT projects fail because of different interpretations of requirements and needs.

So how do schools choose technology that will really improve efficiencies? There is a plethora of information out there, and there is no denying that it is often hard to see the wood for the trees. This leads to the question, where can IT decisions makers go to get cutting edge advice? Advice that is going to focus on teachers and not on fat pockets?

This is a difficult one but the following two resources I have listed, may surprise you:

1. Twitter is a brilliant avenue for asking questions and sharing problems. More often than not, the best advice comes from your own peers that have found IT solutions themselves. Twitter is full of amazing teachers with cutting edge innovative ideas and knowledge to help you solve problems. Just recently, I came across a brilliant Science resource created by Google via Twitter, which looks at the Human Body in a creative way (http://bit.ly/fwxoxY). Students will love this resource so please pass on. If you would like to find out more about Twitter, please visit http://www.twitter.com.

2. Intel Education - I was pleasantly surprised to find out exactly how much Intel focus on teaching and learning. In fact, Intel do not actually provide solutions directly themselves but are a solid bank of information and knowledge when it comes to helping you solve problems in the classroom with IT. This is priceless for teachers. For example, two things on their website you may be interested include information about the ‘Intel World Ahead Program’ and the ‘Intel Learning Series’ who develop and deliver solutions locally. The Intel World Ahead Program is very interesting because it is focusing on making technology affordable and more understood by teachers in the classroom. In the current climate where ICT budgets are being slashed, this is incredibly important. Connecting millions of people to the Internet with high-speed wireless technologies is going to remove the boundaries for learning like never before. One of the many solutions Intel have worked on is a simple website called Skoool.com, that brings a high-quality award-winning free educational service. It’s definitely worth checking out. If you would like to find out more about Intel for Education, please visit http://bit.ly/mMUdj3.

I really believe we are moving fast towards a world where students are immersed in a digital world. Smart phones are ubiquitous and there are apps for everything. Traditional school planners and diaries no longer work. The role of the teacher is constantly evolving but the number one priority remains the same – where doctors look after the body and the police put away criminals, teachers are working relentlessly to nurture the minds of current and future generations. Unfortunately at the best of times, governments, IT decision makers and technology providers can sometimes lose sight of this. It is easy to forget, teachers are not commercial people, they are educators and seek trusted advisors to support them in leveraging technology.

As Spiderman says, with with great power comes great responsibility. The next time you have an IT decision to make, spend a few minutes to look at Twitter and Intel and find a solution that puts your teachers first.

Where is my child's homework?

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 10:09:00 +0100

Does this sound familar?

This was a question I was often asked at Parents’ Evening. It’s natural,
parents really want to know when homework is set so they can ensure the
homework gets done and they can join in with their child’s school life.

If a child is going through a parent-rejection stage, that child may well
not want to co-operate and so may give no or misleading information about
homework. The parent naturally wants to check if this is so, but if the
child is the only person who knows what the homework is that’s where the
problem arises.

However, if the homework is on a simple calendar displayed on the school
website, the parent can see exactly when homework is set and due for all
subjects at anytime.

Our unique approach makes homework a learning event rather than an
administrative annoyance. By working successfully with 300+ schools, we have
learnt through experience the steps necessary to encourage students to get
into a routine with their homework with support from parents. This has lead
to a higher level of completion and overall attainment.

If you would like to learn more about our approach please visit:
http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

Alternatively,please complete our enquiry form to arrange a visit to
your school.

http://www.homeworkdiaryonline.com/homeworkcalendar-arrangevisit.html

With Kind Regards,

Naimish Gohil
Teacher and Founder of Show My Homework
http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

Who uses Show My Homework and what do they think of it?

“We are going to use Show My Homework to improve our Ofsted report from Good to Outstanding by improving our homework policy and routines. Our teachers find it easy to extend classwork to effectively set and monitor homework. It’s fantastic to get parental support!” Katharine Lovell, Assistant Head, The Chauncy School

“Hi Naimish, great site, I will be forwarding this to my daughter’s school!
I have been testing it a bit this last week or so and kids are refusing to
do homework unless it is on the homework site!” _Helen Doyle, St Joseph’s
Roman Catholic School, Australia

“If I don’t post homework on the site, my students are disappointed!” Rod
Fountain, HistoryTeacher, Fulham Cross Girls’ School

“Think this is a super idea. Would save a lot of time and paper too!! Better
as opposed to Fronter that requires you putting all the questions, tasks
etc. Can’t think of any disadvantages, so I’m all for it!” Vishanee
Naidoo, English Teacher, Henry Compton School

“Hi Naimish, excellent resource! I will make it known to other teachers.”
Margaret Gartside, Teacher, Kings Mac School

O2 Rewards for Teachers

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:38:43 +0100

O2 wants to help connect people to great teaching. They’re building a video library of great revision lessons, from teachers across the country.

If you’re a teacher: film your best revision lesson, upload it to the site and share it with Britain’s biggest classroom. You’ll be in with a chance to win some great awards!

If you’re a student: watch the videos, rate them and learn from some of the best teachers in the country.

If you’re a parent: have a look around and pass this on to your child and their school.

The site is totally free for anyone to use and you don’t need to be an O2. Visit https://www.o2learn.co.uk

Two-week winners

Twice a month, the highest rated, most watched video uploaded that fortnight, wins an award. The teacher wins £2000, and their school wins £2000.

Then, over the summer of 2011, their panel of education experts will choose eight finalists from the group of 18 two-week winners (from 1/11/10 to 31/7/11). These 8 finalists will then be eligible for winning the big prize of £50,000 for themselves and £100,000 for their school. More details on the overall winners are near the bottom of this page.

Facing the Giants - Going further than you think!

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 10:04:40 +0000

Facing the Giants - Going further than you think!

Warhawk Matt Scott in Nike ‘No Excuses’ Commercial

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 10:03:46 +0000

Warhawk Matt Scott in Nike ‘No Excuses’ Commercial

Your Alternative VLE to Fronter!

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 20:23:47 +0000

Dear colleague,
Would you consider an alternative to Fronter? Show My Homework provides a simple VLE where teachers can post homework questions, attach worksheets, set deadlines and assess work online. Since Feb 2010 over 300 schools have installed Show My Homework painlessly.

In the current economic climate it is worth looking at alternative solutions. Show My Homework is £4,000 less than Fronter and will provide a VLE that will work and transform e-learning at your school.

To learn more, please visit http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

If you would like us to visit your school and talk about how you could use Show My Homework, please send an email to naimish@showmyhomework.co.uk with your preferred dates.

Many thanks
Naimish Gohil

http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

PS. I am currently looking for teachers / ex teachers interested in earning extra money in 2011 to sell Show My Homework - Please get in touch!

This Week is Anti Bullying Week!

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:33:00 +0000

This week is national anti bullying week! There are lots of good resources on the web. Below are some websites and videos you may wish to use during class and tutor time.

Sites
http://www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/ - official site

www.cybermentors.org.uk - ‘The CyberMentors website uses a social networking model to allow young people at different levels to mentor each other.’ Very good site to make your students aware of!

Videos

You Tube beatbullying site
http://www.youtube.com/user/Beatbullying

Celeb’s voice beatbullying campaign.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=keVe44R4jOQ&feature=channel

Ndubz anti cyber bullying campaign song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hEeflUzX_4

Aston from JLS
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qT50vAO4d2k&feature=channel

Anti bullying Ad – This is quite hard hitting! You may want to check first to see if it’s suitable for your KS3 students.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wklre2_18BU&feature=related

Many Thanks to Graham Quantrell for providing these useful links!

@showmyhomework

http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

Nothing Like Twitter for Teachers

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 21:19:21 +0000

I have to admit, when I first signed up to Twitter, I was not expecting how

useful or amazing it would turn out to be! Twitter has allowed me to introduce http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk to hundreds of new teachers from around the world.
Before Twitter, I was getting disheartened trying to reach out to teachers about Show My Homework. I tried calling schools, leaving voice messages, writing letters, sending emails, sending CD’s etc. I’m no marketer so, I may have been doing it all wrong but honestly, I was struggling to find teachers that were willing to try something new…
However, Twitter for educators is just another world! - I find myself amazed and excited to connect with so many inspiring, positive, make-it-happen teachers from around the world. I have discovered so many new resources from my new found network of people.
Thank you to my followers and thank you to Twitter. Well done @Biz & @Jack
Naimish http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

30 Quick Tips to be a Better Teacher

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 12:22:26 +0000

Give students respect at all times.
Listen, listen, and listen.
Be approachable and friendly.
Make the boundaries clear as crystal.
Show empathy.
Let students know their opinions are valued.
If you say you’re going to do something, make sure you do it and follow up.
Make lessons hands on and practical.
Make use of all the data you have available for planning lessons.
Make time for extra curricular clubs.
Don’t forget to challenge students.
Treat all students equally and fairly.
They don’t have favourites.
Mark classwork and homework on a regular basis.
Enjoy being in the classroom.
Never give up and raise their aspirations.
Organise educational trips.
Don’t undermine their intelligence.
Don’t make an example of them in front of everyone.
Give them time to answer questions.
Use lots of encouragement and praise, praise, praise.
Send letters home both positive and areas for improvement.
Give them 1-2-3 warnings.
Give them a choice, it’s easy to shout but shouting gets you nowhere.
Keep their tutors informed.
Keep their parents informed.
Get to know students on a first name basis.
Be visible at playtime and at lunchtime.
Say hello and smile.
Reward them with prizes they’ll want.

I am sure there are hundreds more tips we can add here. If you can think of any, please add in the comments. When I get a bit more time, I will be eloborating on each one with examples…

http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

@showmyhomework

Tuition Fees in Twitter Trends

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 11:59:00 +0000

Tuition Fees in Twitter Trends:

Brilliant page from Google showing Twitter trends about the Tuition Fees which is everywhere at the moment…

@showmyhomework

Watch this short tutorial showing how to use Show My Homework

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:56:00 +0100

Watch this short tutorial showing how to use Show My Homework

93% Success - Well Done Year 11

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 08:01:00 +0100

I’ve been meaning to share the success we have had at Henry Compton via a blog post but have not had a chance to get around to it sooner, so here goes! This year results for BTEC ICT have jumped to 93% from 89% last year. I am really happy and my team have worked super hard! We continue to raise the bar every year. When I am teaching I often talk to students about it being a journey we all start together. Our goal is to stay as a pact, stay together, work together, help each other, motivate each other along our epic journey. During the journey there is going to be some hairy moments, moments where we will disagree, where we will go off track. It is my job and your job to help a friend / class mate during this time so they don’t fall behind. There will also be moments where things are difficult else where, at home or with peers. All these things will happen at some stage to one of use more often then not along this journey. Let’s be prepared for those moments and know that with the above we will get through it. I tell the students the journey will not be easy and there will be yet again times when you find the work boring. You are not going to like everything we do and at the same time you are not always going to like everyone on your football team but to be successful, to get through the tough moments, you back each other, support each other and move forward.

Let’s not forget about what success means and what we are working towards. Let’s remind each other regularly and imagine what that feeling will be like to get Merits or Distinctions. Let’s imagine that moment telling your parents and siblings. Let’s imagine that moment when you have a college interview and you can proudly hold your head high and say “I achieved a Distinction at Henry Compton in ICT”.

I encourage my ICT team to always remind students why they are doing this and what they will get from it. I love telling them stories about entrepreneurial spirit. All of these things get them excited. Along with excellent teaching, interesting lessons and meeting students half way, we get great results. It is a lot of hard work and it is tough but thankfully our journey has been pretty successful the last few years.

Congrats again to the students and staff at Henry Compton for doing a super job!

Long may it continue…

http://www.showmyhomework.co.uk

Summer Holidays

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 18:07:00 +0100

The summer holidays have kicked off and I’m really excited about the next few months ahead for myself and Show My Homework. Since I last wrote a full blog post, Twitter have reached 20 billion tweets, My school, Henry Compton had an OfSTED inspection during the last week of July and got rated “Good” with Outstanding “Features”. I recently celebrated my one year Wedding Anniversary, two of my best friends got married and Apple have firmly shot themselves with the iPhone Antenna problems. Following those headlines, I recently read that a number of people have also complained about the iPad over overheating. I own a Macbook, iPod, iTouch, iPad and once owned an iPhone 3GS before I lost it when I left it on the tennis courts at Clayhall Park. Personally I have never had any problems with Apple products as yet. They really are a cut above the rest and I guess when a company is as successful as Apple is, it is bound to get a few moments where it takes very little for people to take a dig at it. Steve Jobs is a legend in my opinion. In the past I have shown my Year 11’s a very inspiring commencement speech Steve did at his Stanford University called “How to live before you die” available on TED talks. It’s well worth watching it as a starter activity and brings something different into the classroom.

I should really stop talking about Apple and get back to Show My Homework. As I mentioned, I’m really excited about the next few months. Thank you to everyone that has used the Show My Homework service so far, blogged about it and offered to help. A Big thank you to Mark Warner from Teaching Ideas, John Mclear from John McLear’s School Technology, Tim Jefferson for his take on VLE Vs Show My Homework and everyone who is following me on Twitter.

Over the next few months a number of exciting new features will be introduced such as submitting homework online - a feature that has been heavily requested by my users. I have listened and this will be available very soon. Some of you have had a sneak preview of how it is going to work already…Exciting stuff so please watch this space. Show My Homework will also be launching in the USA and Rest of the World to cater for our friends from all over word that have enquired about Show My Homework. Show My Homework is in its infancy and still has a long long way to go but I can’t hide how proud and excited I am to have users from London to Jakarta in Indonesia (Tunas Muda International School) using Show My Homework.

This is where I say thank you for your support so far. You have been fantastic, so encouraging and positive about what I am trying to do with Show My Homework. I would also like to take this opportunity to ask you, if you have not already done so, to please come along for this journey and sign up to try Show My Homework. It may not be for you but it may change the way you approach homework forever at your school.

Have fantastic summer holidays, whatever your doing.

Naimish Gohil

New Premium Feature Feedback - Submit Homework Online

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:00:00 +0100

New Premium Feature - Submit Homework Online

Show My Homework in TES

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 09:57:00 +0100

Show My Homework in Times Education Supplement (TES)

Dear colleagues, The easiest way to share your school homework...

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:38:28 +0100

Dear colleagues,

The easiest way to share your school homework calendar with students and parents is to place a Show My Homework Button straight on your school website or VLE (See below). When students or parents click on this button, it will take them straight to their school homework calendar. Give it a go by visiting the Henry Compton School website and clicking the button on the right hand side.

To put a button on your own school website, please login and then go to your Welcome page (Click the Show My Homework House icon). Once you are there, you’ll get something that looks like above. Follow the instructions and away you go. It’s easy.

Dear Colleagues, I am delighted to release the latest new...

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:01:13 +0100

Dear Colleagues,

I am delighted to release the latest new feature on Show My Homework. You can now add videos to your homework questions with a single click (See History example above from Henry Compton School). YouTube has millions of videos (www.youtube.com) which you can embed. Adding video to your homework questions will add an element of interest and interaction.

Please click the image above to go straight to the Henry Compton School Homework Calendar > History question

I would love to hear about how you are using YouTube in your homework questions.

Yours,

Naimish