Digital homework and differentiated learning in a lesson on Zhaozhou Bridge

Using smart homework to improve primary Chinese teaching: a lesson on Zhaozhou Bridge  

Gao Yang, Li Zhangsha, Lv Jiao, Wu Jialei, Xiao Qian  

Gangdong Primary School, Ligezhuang, Jiaozhou  

Abstract:This case takes the lesson “Zhaozhou Bridge” as an example, and explores the practical application of schools using intelligent homework as a means to promote reforms in primary school Chinese language teaching and improve students’ competencies. It details the unique applications of intelligent education in schools, such as interactive platforms and personalized resources. The teaching models are also summarized, and the existing problems are reflected upon. The significance of integrating information technology with the “five aspects of education” is emphasized, with the aim of promoting the comprehensive development of students.    

Keywords:Intelligent homework; Zhaozhou Bridge; Integration of the “Five Educations”    

Case background  

In today’s era of rapid development in educational digitalization, as educational reforms continue to advance, the application of information technology in education becomes increasingly widespread and comprehensive. In order to better meet the demands of modern times and improve the quality of primary school language teaching, as well as to foster students’ overall comprehensive abilities, our school actively explores various innovative teaching methods. “Zhaozhou Bridge” is a representative classic text in primary school language textbooks. It contains rich cultural connotations and holds significant educational value. However, traditional teaching methods have certain limitations; they cannot fully meet students’ learning needs or stimulate their interest in learning. In light of this, I have chosen the lesson “Zhaozhou Bridge” as a starting point to introduce innovative approaches such as intelligent homework and intelligent classrooms. By integrating information technology into teaching, we aim to promote reforms in classroom teaching, enhance teaching effectiveness, and support the development of students’ language skills, thinking abilities, and innovative spirit. Additionally, under the “Double Reduction” policy, we hope to achieve the goal of reducing burden and increasing efficiency through intelligent homework. This will enable students to grow and progress in a more relaxed and enjoyable learning environment, ensuring that learning is a joyful experience.  

1. School environment and facilities  

In the process of actively promoting the application of intelligent education features, the school’s facilities play a crucial role. Our school places great emphasis on the development of information infrastructure; a fast and stable campus network enables teachers and students to use various intelligent education platforms and online resources smoothly. Additionally, the school has established cloud computing and big data centers, which provide strong data processing and storage capabilities for smart classrooms. These infrastructures provide a solid foundation for the successful implementation of smart classrooms. At the same time, the school also focuses on improving the information literacy of teachers and students. We regularly participate in training and learning activities related to intelligent education, thereby enhancing our own information literacy and teaching skills. We also encourage students to make full use of the intelligent education platforms, thereby improving their self-directed learning abilities and information literacy. This collaborative environment between teachers and students ensures the effective implementation of smart classrooms. Through these platforms, we have also strengthened communication between the school and families, allowing parents to better understand their children’s learning progress and development. Parents can obtain important information such as their children’s learning progress and homework completion status through the platform, and they can also communicate with teachers in a timely manner. This partnership between school and family not only increases parents’ awareness and participation in intelligent education, but also provides students with more comprehensive and personalized learning support.  

II. Case Process  

(1) Pre-class preparation – intelligent guidance and effectiveness  

1. Release of intelligent preview tasks: personalized guidance and comprehensive coverage

When preparing for the teaching of Lesson 3, Unit 3 in the third grade textbook, Volume 2, titled “Zhaozhou Bridge”, I first carefully read and understood the text “Zhaozhou Bridge” in accordance with the teaching references and textbooks, so as to have a clear understanding of the key points, difficulties, and essentials involved in this text. Then, I set clear teaching objectives. Subsequently, through the teaching modules on the Smart Education platform, I collected the teaching tasks and instructional designs related to the lesson “Zhaozhou Bridge” to gain a comprehensive understanding of the content of this lesson, improve my teaching quality, and provide guidance for students’ learning.  

I also found some videos, pictures, and audio materials related to the Zhaozhou Bridge through the intelligent platform. This allows the children to see the Zhaozhou Bridge more clearly and understand its historical background. In this way, learning becomes more interesting and engaging. To help the children get familiar with the text in advance, I assigned them some preview tasks using the intelligent homework platform. These tasks are both interesting and informative. I hope that while completing these tasks, the children can gain a deeper understanding of the grandeur of the Zhaozhou Bridge and the stories behind it. Previewing the material is very important; this enables the children to quickly get into the learning state during class and help them better grasp the knowledge.  

2. Self-directed learning and question-based feedback: Stimulate students’ desire to explore and sense of participation

When assigning preview tasks, I took into account the different levels of learning ability and interests of students, and designed the tasks in a detailed and personalized manner. For students with weaker foundations, I focused on helping them get a basic understanding of the basic information and physical characteristics of the Zhaozhou Bridge. For those students who are interested in historical culture, I guided them to explore the historical context and cultural significance behind the Zhaozhou Bridge in greater depth. This differentiated approach to preview tasks aims to meet the needs of different students and improve the overall effectiveness of the preview process. To support students’ independent learning, I compiled a variety of online resources, including teaching videos, high-resolution images, and detailed documents, providing them with a rich set of learning materials. At the same time, I carefully selected and optimized these resources to ensure their accuracy and educational value. These well-prepared learning materials provide strong support for students’ independent learning, enabling them to learn more easily and effectively.  

During the learning process, I also encourage students to actively record their questions and insights, and to provide me with real-time feedback through the intelligent assignment platform. I regularly review the students’ feedback, and offer specific answers and guidance regarding their questions and ideas. This timely interaction mechanism not only helps to resolve students’ doubts, but also enables me to gain a deeper understanding of their learning situation and needs, providing a solid basis for future classroom teaching.  

[Design Purpose] By releasing preview tasks through the intelligent homework platform and guiding students to learn independently while recording their questions and ideas, the intelligent teaching method not only improves the effectiveness and quality of pre-class preparation, but also fosters students’ ability to learn independently and their spirit of exploration.  

(II) Classroom teaching – intelligent interaction, and assignment presentations  

1. Using multimedia to present information in a visual way, thereby stimulating interest

In class, in order to help students understand Zhaozhou Bridge beyond the descriptions in textbooks, I organized a unique combination of visual and auditory elements during the lesson. I selected several high-resolution images of Zhaozhou Bridge; each image captures the bridge’s grandeur and its rich historical significance. Additionally, I collected and edited a wonderful video material. Through the teaching platform, I presented how Zhaozhou Bridge looks during different seasons, its tranquility under the sunset, and the busy scene of people walking across the bridge. As these images were displayed in the classroom, students seemed to be transported into a time tunnel, and they truly experienced the beauty and mystery of Zhaozhou Bridge. Their eyes reflected a desire and curiosity about the unknown world, and they developed a strong interest in the history and culture of Zhaozhou Bridge. This intuitive visual and auditory experience laid a solid emotional foundation for the subsequent teaching, making students more eager to learn about the next topics.  

Insert the image here  

Figure 3: The classroom uses a smart platform to display images of the Zhaozhou Bridge  

2. Conduct group discussions to deepen understanding together

In the teaching process, in order for students to gain a more in-depth understanding of the Zhaozhou Bridge, I encouraged them to engage in group discussions. Within each group, every student participated actively; they listened to each other, exchanged ideas, and discussed various aspects of the Zhaozhou Bridge as well as its profound cultural significance. They had lively discussions about the Bridge’s intricate design, historical background, and artistic value. Some students were amazed by the cleverness of the Bridge’s design, and realized the wisdom and craftsmanship of the ancient craftsmen; others expressed respect for the Bridge’s historical origins, reflecting on the passage of time and the accumulation of history; yet others were captivated by the beauty of the Bridge’s architecture and its unique architectural style and exquisite craftsmanship. Such in-depth discussions not only helped students gain a more comprehensive and thorough understanding of the Zhaozhou Bridge, but also improved their teamwork skills and thinking abilities, allowing them to learn from each other and progress together during the communication process.  

3. Display excellent work samples to set an example and promote mutual growth.

I carefully selected and displayed some of the excellent preview assignments of the students through the intelligent assignment platform. When these assignments were shown on the screen, there was immediate praise from the students in the classroom. These excellent assignments not only demonstrated their talent and effort but also served as an example for other students. Their faces were filled with pride and joy, and the other students were greatly encouraged. They realized the effort and hard work behind those excellent assignments, and also felt the gap between themselves and those students. As a result, they decided to follow these excellent students as examples, study harder, and strive to produce excellent assignments in the next time. This way of displaying excellent assignments not only creates a positive learning atmosphere but also promotes the progress of all students. At the same time, it helps students understand better the relationship between effort and success, encouraging them to continuously strive for excellence and surpass themselves.  

[Design Purpose] This course design focuses on the Zhaozhou Bridge as the theme. By using a variety of tasks and materials, students’ interest and curiosity are stimulated, encouraging them to actively explore the charm of the Zhaozhou Bridge. Differentiated tasks are provided for students at various levels of learning ability, so that everyone can find a suitable starting point for their learning. Additionally, a wide range of online resources, such as videos, pictures, and documents, are utilized, allowing students to directly experience the beauty and historical significance of the Zhaozhou Bridge during their preparation phase. Students are also encouraged to ask questions and share their ideas. Through a smart assignment platform, immediate interaction between teachers and students can take place, enabling timely understanding of students’ learning progress and providing accurate guidance for classroom teaching.  

(3) Homework after class – Use it to reinforce knowledge and deepen understanding  

Under the current context of educational reform, I strive to combine traditional education with modern technology. By providing interesting and challenging after-class assignments, I aim to encourage students to deeply explore the charm of the Zhaozhou Bridge, while also developing their creativity, practical skills, and overall qualities. This not only helps to reinforce classroom knowledge, but also represents an innovative approach to talent development. The goal is to integrate information technology with aesthetic education within the “five aspects of education” in a meaningful way, thereby promoting the healthy growth of students.  

1. Task 1: Write guide statements that highlight the inheritance and promotion of history and culture

Assignment requirement: In order to enable students to gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the Zhaozhou Bridge, I asked them to write a lively and interesting guide text. During the writing process, students were required to make use of online resources to gather information about the historical background, design features, and artistic value of the Zhaozhou Bridge, and then incorporate this information effectively into their guide text. This assignment not only helps to reinforce students’ knowledge from class, but also improves their writing and communication skills, as well as their cultural awareness. Additionally, by creating such guide texts, students can also feel a sense of responsibility and mission to preserve and promote the excellent traditional culture of China.  

[Design Purpose] By writing guide notes, students are encouraged to delve deeper into the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Zhaozhou Bridge. This process not only helps to reinforce classroom knowledge, but also enhances students’ writing and expression skills, thereby improving their cultural literacy. During this process, students will fully understand their responsibilities and missions in preserving and promoting the excellent traditional culture of China. At the same time, it stimulates innovative thinking, achieving a perfect combination of knowledge accumulation and emotional development.  

2. Task 2: Digitally draw the structural diagram of the Zhaozhou Bridge; a perfect combination of technology and art (optional)

Assignment requirement: In the digital age, I encourage students to use information technology tools, such as advanced drawing software or 3D modeling software, to create diagrams of the Zhaozhou Bridge’s structure. This approach allows students to understand the architectural structure and design principles of the Zhaozhou Bridge more intuitively through hands-on operation and collaboration. Moreover, the process of drawing and modeling also helps to develop students’ skills in digital drawing and modeling, thereby enhancing their information literacy and innovation abilities.  

[Design Purpose] This assignment aims to encourage students to use digital tools, such as advanced drawing or 3D modeling software, to create structural diagrams of the Zhaozhou Bridge. This innovative approach not only enables students to understand the architectural structure and design principles of the Zhaozhou Bridge in a visual manner, but also develops their skills in digital drawing and modeling. It also enhances their information literacy and innovative spirit. Through this assignment, students can combine technology and art effectively, showing both respect for traditional culture and the power of modern technology.  

3. Intelligent assignment platform: interactive feedback and personalized guidance

In this crucial teaching phase involving assignment submission and feedback, I encourage students to actively use the intelligent assignment platform to upload their work. Through the preliminary evaluation by the intelligent grading system, students can receive immediate feedback on their assignments. Subsequently, I will conduct manual grading, providing personalized guidance and suggestions based on each student’s individual strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback approach enables students to quickly understand their learning status and make targeted improvements accordingly. Additionally, I will adjust the teaching content and methods according to the students’ performance in their assignments, in order to meet their diverse learning needs.  

4. Peer evaluation of assignments: Promotes communication and cooperation, leading to mutual growth

In order to create a positive learning environment and encourage mutual learning and progress among students, I organize activities where students evaluate each other’s homework. During these evaluations, students not only need to carefully read the homework of their peers but also provide their own assessments and suggestions. Such activities help students identify the strengths and weaknesses of their peers, as well as promote communication and cooperation among them. This, in turn, helps develop their sense of teamwork and abilities. At the same time, students can also learn new knowledge and methods from the homework of their peers, thereby improving their learning abilities and overall quality.  

[Design Purpose] Through the intelligent assignment platform, immediate interactive feedback and personalized guidance from teachers can be provided, while ensuring that students can improve their knowledge effectively. The assignment evaluation process also promotes communication and cooperation among students, leading to their mutual progress and overall development.  

IV. Outcomes of the cases and reflections  

Through the teaching practice of the case of “Zhaozhou Bridge”, I was able to utilize the intelligent education platform to achieve a comprehensive optimization of teaching processes—from pre-class preparation, classroom instruction, to post-class reinforcement. With the help of the intelligent education platform, I can design personalized pre-class tasks for students, ensuring that each student can prepare according to their own knowledge level and interests. This personalized approach not only improves the efficiency of pre-class preparation but also lays a solid foundation for students’ subsequent classroom learning. During classroom instruction, I make full use of the multimedia resources provided by the intelligent education platform to present the history, cultural value, and social significance of Zhaozhou Bridge in a clear and engaging manner. This teaching method not only stimulates students’ interest in learning but also helps them understand the classroom concepts more deeply. After class, I assign personalized reinforcement exercises through the intelligent homework platform. These exercises include reviewing and strengthening the knowledge learned in class, as well as activities such as drawing diagrams of Zhaozhou Bridge’s structure and writing tour guides, which encourage students to think deeply. Additionally, I encourage students to use online resources for self-study, thereby broadening their knowledge.

Although certain results have been achieved in the teaching of “Zhaozhou Bridge”, I have also identified some problems and shortcomings. Although I have tried to make the preview tasks more personalized and comprehensive, some students’ learning needs and interests remain unmet. In future teaching, I will further optimize the design of preview tasks to ensure that every student can find a learning path that suits them. During the interactive parts of classroom teaching, I have noticed that some students are not very engaged. To address this issue, I will pay more attention to guiding and supporting the students, so that they can fully participate in discussions and presentations. At the same time, I will encourage students to speak up and ask questions, thereby fostering their critical thinking and innovation skills. Throughout the teaching process, I will pay closer attention to students’ learning progress and promptly understand their needs and feedback. Through regular communication with students, I will provide them with more targeted guidance and support, ensuring that they can achieve better results in their studies.