Purpose/Philosophy of Homework

 

• Reinforce and review skills taught (ensures mastery)

• Apply skills

• Develop personal responsibility

• Integrate cross-curricular concepts (long term projects)

• Prepares students for tests

• Experience reading for personal enrichment (book logs, book reports)

 

Communication

 

Explained in grade level handbooks/back to school letters including information such as: time, frequency, grading scale, absence policy for students and how homework is assigned when the teacher is out, long-term projects, purpose, due dates, rubric, etc.

 

Expectations

 

Homework is assigned Monday through Thursday.

 

• Kindergarten – 10 to 20 minutes, including reading

• Grade 1 – 10 to 20 minutes including independent reading

• Grade 2 – 10 to 30 minutes plus independent reading

• Grade 3 – 15 to 30 minutes plus independent reading

• Grade 4 – 20 to 30 minutes plus independent reading

• Grade 5 – 30 to 60 minutes plus independent reading

 

Content

 

• Review skills recently taught as well as from previous units

• All subjects: reading, writing, math, science, social studies

• Daily homework as well as long-term projects

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Grading

 

• Parent signature of homework sheet, planner, etc

• Homework acknowledged by teacher with check marks, sticker, rubric

• Parent is contacted if there is a pattern of missed or incomplete homework

• Long-term project may address more than one subject area

• Homework passes for daily assignments are sometimes given as part of an incentive plan in classrooms but are not used for long-term projects

Role of the Student, Teacher, Parent/Caregiver

 

• Student: Attempts all homework, Completes and does their best on assignment

  • Returns assignment on time

  • Is aware of assignment, understands requirements, including the format

  • Asks questions of teacher, parent, or study buddy

 

• Parent/Caregiver: Supports the policy of the classroom teacher

  • Provides a quiet place with desk, chair, supplies, good lighting

  • Grades K - 2 – provides assistance as needed

  • Grades 3 - 5 – monitors and checks for completion

  • Communicate concerns regarding homework to teacher

 

• Teacher: Ensures every assignment is relevant and directions have been provided/explained

  • Provides and follows homework routines

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The homework policy for grades 6-8 is outlined in the middle school handbook.