Concept to Classroom: Making Family and Community Connections

Here is a design template for TIPS Math homework

Dear Family Partner,

In math, we __________________________________________________.

I hope that you enjoy this activity with me.

This assignment is due: _________

Student's Signature:_______________________

LOOK THIS OVER: Explain this to your family member.

NOW TRY THIS: Show your family partner how you do this example.

PRACTICE SESSION: Complete these examples on your own. Show your work. Explain one example to your family partner.

MORE PRACTICE

LET'S FIND OUT IN THE REAL WORLD

ANSWER TO "NOW, TRY THIS"

HOME TO SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS

Dear Parent/Family Member,
Your comments about your child's work in this activity are important. Please write "Yes" or "No" for each statement.
____ My child understood the homework and was able to discuss it.
____ My child and I enjoyed this activity.
____ This assignment helps me understand what my child is learning in math.
Other comments:

This example is reprinted with permission from: Epstein, Salinas, Jackson, and Van Voorhis. TEACHERS INVOLVE PARENTS IN SCHOOLWORK (TIPS), INTERACTIVE HOMEWORK FOR THE MIDDLE GRADES. Baltimore: Center on School, Family, and Community Partnership, Johns Hopkins University, 2000.