Homework Policy

Homework is a valuable learning activity for children. It provides the opportunity to practice skills as well as develop self-discipline, independent work habits, and responsibility. These are vital parts of a successful education.

An important aspect of homework is that it links school and home by providing parents with information about the material being covered in class. It also provides another opportunity for parents to be part of their child’s school life and recognizes the value of home/school collaboration.

The purpose of homework is:

· to provide additional time to complete assignments given during the school day;

· to reinforce what is learned in class;

· to promote independent work habits;

· to develop organizational and time management skills.

Well-designed homework assignments are age appropriate, relate directly to class work and extend children’s learnings in reading and writing beyond the classroom. Homework in reading and writing provides an opportunity to reinforce school learning at home so that it becomes regular and ongoing. The intent of Number Two School’s homework policy is not to dictate how much homework should be assigned. The amount of homework may vary from class to class and may differ according to the learning needs of the individual child. Not all children require the same amount of time to complete their work.

Children will receive assignments to be completed outside of the regular school day and may include the following:

· assignments not completed in class;

· work given to reinforce skills taught in class, such as spelling or math facts;

· independent reading or reading to your child;

· long range assignments, such as book reports or projects.

Teachers, children and parents all have a role to play with regard to homework. Responsibilities are as follows:

Teacher

· provides instruction in class to support homework assigned.

· respects the guidelines for homework time.

· assigns work that is within the capability of the student.

· clearly informs students and parents of homework expectations.

· follows up on homework assignments promptly with students.

Student

· records homework.

· organizes self and materials.

· completes and returns homework assignments on time.

Parent

· checks each child’s agenda daily.

· provides a quiet space for each child to work.

· establishes a homework routine.

· gives support, when necessary, but encourages children to work independently.

· monitors homework and communicates any concerns to the teacher.

The average total time a typical student should spend on daily homework nightly in a week:

Grade Time Total (minutes)

1 15 minutes plus an additional 15 minutes 30

reading or being read to.

2 20 minutes plus an additional 15 minutes 35 reading or being read to.

3 30 minutes plus an additional 20 minutes 50 reading.

4 45 minutes plus an additional 20 minutes 65 reading.

5 45 minutes plus an additional 20 minutes 65 reading.

There may be times when homework assignments may include more than the average daily assignment parameters and include extended writing assignments and/or long-term projects.