Case
Parent Enjoys Projects

During a regular parent conference, the parent was informed about an up-coming science project. The parent was very excited and shared that she liked doing projects. She enjoyed using her creativity and cute ideas. I want parents to support their students by assisting with materials and guidance not completing the student's work. After all, it is not fair to the student who does not get any help at all or has limited resources. What suggestions do you have for limiting the parent's hands-on participation, yet welcoming their support otherwise?

Posted on: 10/17/14 | Views: 1427
Solution #1
I am currently having students complete science fair projects. In an effort to help the STUDENT complete their science fair project, I am providing them with class time to complete part of the project. This way the student will be held responsible for most of the work, and the teacher is also there to provide insight and guidance.
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Solution #2
I agree with completing the projects in class. My first internship was in a fifth grade class and they have to complete the STEM fair. My cooperating teacher knew that if she wanted to she what the students abilities were that the work would have to be completed in class throughout a extended time span. This gives an even level playing field for students who may not have the extra help or materials at home to provide the same quality work as everyone else. You can still involve the parents by having a parent night where they come in and view the projects.
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Solution #3
I would provide with parents and students a rubric to set expectations for projects. I would also have students sign off on a "contract" that their work was their own. Along with the rubric and contract, attach a letter, approved by your administrator first outlining expectations for parents and students.

Nice. The contract will bind them to the agreement. Smart.

Parents should always be aware and understand just as the students do.

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Solution #4
All of the suggestions are helpful. If this continues to be an issue and you don't want to punish the student(s) then maybe time needs to be carved out for an opportunity to do some of the work in the classroom. This is obviously only a last resort option.
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Solution #5
I would send home a letter explaining that students are supposed to do their own work and have the students and parents sign it so it's fair for all the students.

A letter home is not such a bad idea.

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Solution #6
Try to make a majority of the work be in class work. That way the parent can be helpful, but only to an extent. Check students work before they go home and then compare it to the final product to be sure that it is their work.
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Solution #7
Explain that the student will need to be able to discuss in detail how the project was completed. Many times if a parent does the work, the student will not know all the little details. You could also do progressive checks.
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Solution #8
Perhaps sending a letter home with the project explaining the concern you have of parents doing their students' work. Make the students bring back a signature from the parents that they understand what is being asked of them. If the parent truly cares about the learning development of their child, they should comply and be a supportive, not do all the work for them. However, the reality is that we can not be with the student all the time and whatever happens at home is out of our control.

This is a good idea, that way parents are aware that the teacher will be looking out for this.

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