Why is there homework?

Homework is given for several reasons. 

	To revise:  Just like in sports or learning a musical instrument, it takes practice to be good.  Students need practice to excel in school
	To extend:  It extends our lessons taught in class.  We have a short time together, once they have the concept, they can go beyond what we do in class.  All homework assignments are either class work they did not finish or skills taught in class.  General rule, I will always go over the assignments and directions and we will do the first problem together.  After all, learning didn't begin at school and it should not end there either.
	To inform:  Parents help validate student learning when they are supportive of school work and it also helps the parent to be informed of what the child is learning.

Homework helps teach responsibility and helps them to know that studying, learning and reading will be a continuing part of their whole lives. 

Students can expect between 40 - 50 minutes of homework every night except for Friday (unless there are special circumstances that deems it necessary - but this is very rare).  A good rule of thumb is 10 minutes of homework per grade level.  They will generally have math homework every night, with a science assignment once or twice a week. 

If your child is taking more than 50 minutes to an hour to complete homework from his/her four core subjects, please let me know.  Write down what your child did, what he did not do and what you think seemed to be the problem (distracted, played around, did not understand, organizational skills, too much...). 

Homework assignments are due the day after it is assigned (unless stated otherwise).  Please see grading policy for late work.  Projects will be due on the due date and will not be accepted late.  Any student missing school or my class for any reason must make up all assignments in a timely manner.  School policy states a student will receive one day for every day they are absent to complete work.  If your child is out sick longer than three days, please call or email me and pick up work for them. 

All homework assignments must be complete.  Any assignment that is not complete, points will be deducted.  If over half of the assignment is not done, the assignment will be returned to the student as a zero.  All math homework and corrections need to show all work.  Anything turned in without work, will not be graded - "No Work - No Credit".

To Succeed... We all need to do our part!

Teacher's Responsibility Concerning Homework -

• Informing parent and student of homework policy and procedure

• Posting homework assignments for the week

• Allowing students time to write assignments in agendas on Monday

• Ensuring that the homework assigned has purpose and is related to the academic goal

• Grading and returning homework in a timely manner

• Giving students opportunities for corrections if needed

Students Responsibility Concerning Homework -

• Using time given on Monday to write assignments in agenda

• Responsible for writing assignments on their on time if they are out of class on Monday

• Showing their agenda to parents Monday evening

• Turning assignments/projects in on the due date

• Completing assignments missed during absences in a timely manner

Parents Responsibility Concerning Homework -

• Ensuring a study work place for student

• Checking agenda every Monday evening so that you are aware of the student's responsibility

• Giving support and encouragement to student

• Communicating questions and/or concerns with teacher

• Set a Schedule.  Students work best if they have a routine and a schedule to follow.  Allow them time to take a break after arriving home, a snack, rest, or play. 
   

• Provide a home study center for your child.  Designate a place for your child to work.  Be sure there is adequate light and few distractions.  Have resources ready and available for them - pencils, paper, computer... (see list below)
   

• Be available when your child is doing homework.  If your child has questions or is confused as to what to do, it is helpful if they have an adult to ask. 
   

• Don't do the homework for your child.  Yes, I encourage them to seek parental help.  However, I am looking for what they know and understand.  Seeking guidance is acceptable, but the outcome should still be their work.
   

• Check homework for completion.  I encourage students to have a parent or guardian check over the work for completion and accuracy.  This also supports your child by showing them that you take an interest in their work.  It also keeps you, the parent or guardian, informed as to what your child is learning and gives you an opportunity to check that the work is getting done.
   

• Praise your child.  Children seek adult approval and are motivated to please if they feel their effort is recognized. 

THE CARDINAL RULE FOR HELPING:
"Never Work Harder Than Your Child"

Here are some suggested homework supplies needed at home from time to time throughout the year...

• Pencils (never pens)

• Erasers

• Crayons

• Markers

• Colored Pencils

• Glue Stick

• Scissors

• Dictionary

• Notebook Paper