Teaching Harry Potter: Optional Homework
My students are all private clients with busy lives, so I prefer to make homework optional. This way, when it is completed, it’s a pleasant surprise. For this course, since students are already tasked with reading chapters and occasionally writing summaries, it’s even more important to keep additional homework optional.
The key to successful optional homework is making it as interesting as possible. Sharing completed work with the class not only motivates students but also fosters engagement with the text.
The optional homework structure I’ve designed for Harry Potter is one of my favourite parts of the course. It revolves around earning school badges—a nod to the magical world of Hogwarts.
The Five Magical Categories
- Artist
Let your creativity shine! Create something inspired by the chapter—drawings, paintings, sculptures, crafts, or even digital designs. Use your imagination to bring the magic to life!
️ Example: Draw your favourite scene or design your own magical artifact. - Bard
Write or perform something magical! This could be a poem, song, short story, or even a dramatic scene. Share your work through writing, video, or audio.
✍️ Example: Write a song about a character or create a story about a new Hogwarts student. - Philosopher
Think deeply about the chapter! Explore moral dilemmas, choices, and ideas. Write your thoughts, discuss them in class, or record a video explaining your views.
Example: Was it fair for Harry to be punished for something he didn’t do? Why or why not? - Whiz
Solve puzzles or create your own! Try logic puzzles, word games, or design a riddle related to the chapter. Test your cleverness and have fun with problem-solving!
Example: Create a crossword about the magical creatures in the chapter. - Sorcerer
Find magic in your own life! Describe something magical—a special moment, place, person, or feeling. Express it through writing, art, or video.
✨ Example: Write about a place that feels magical to you and why.
The Badge System
- Bronze Badge: Earned the first time you complete a task in any category.
- Silver Badge: Earned for the second task in the same category.
- Gold Badge: Earned for the third task in the same category.
️ Special Badges:
- Prefect Badge: Achieve a silver badge in all five categories.
- Head Girl/Head Boy Badge: Achieve a gold badge in all five categories.
How to Participate
- Choose One Category
Pick the category that interests you most each week. - Complete the Task
Follow the instructions for your chosen category. Tasks will change weekly, so look out for new challenges!
Why It Works
These tasks are designed to:
- Develop creative and critical thinking skills.
- Promote problem-solving and independent thought.
- Improve English vocabulary, writing, and speaking through engaging activities.
For larger classes, sorting students into Hogwarts houses and awarding points for exceptional work can foster teamwork and friendly competition. Points can be tallied weekly and announced alongside badge progress, adding an extra layer of motivation.
Have you tried gamifying homework in your classes? I’d love to hear your thoughts or see how you adapt this system for your students!
