Homework

 

 

Research on Homework:

• The academic benefits of homework increase with the age of students, with tangible benefits starting at grade 4.

• It is important to assign purposeful homework, which includes introducing new content, practicing a skill or process that students can do independently but not fluently, extending classroom learning to deepen knowledge, and to explore topics of personal interest.

• Ensure homework is achievable and yet challenging/interesting.

• Be clear about parent expectations and involve parents in appropriate ways, not placing them in the role of policing homework or becoming the teacher.

• Ensure expectations of quantity are age appropriate. 

 

Guidelines for Cooper's Crossing School:

• As a general rule, learning and skill development for elementary students takes place at school. Assigning work to be completed at home is something that, at the Kindergarten to Grade 4 level, should be done with caution and the clear the clear communication of expectations and reasons for the work.

• Homework should primarily focus on:

  • the regularly practice of reading and basic math skills

  • shared reflections on work done at school

  • occasional activities that extend the learning into the home environment (example: interviewing family members about family culture)

• As a general rule, on any night, expectations for the completion of school tasks, including home reading, should not exceed 15 minutes for kindergarteners and grade 1 students and 30 minutes for students in grades 2-4. 

• Any homework in addition to regular reading and math practice should have significant notice given.

• Parent roles must be clearly defined, and we as a school must understand the pressures on family life and not penalize students if work is not completed.  Concerns about completion, if they come up, should be addressed collaboratively with parents.  If a student is frustrated with the work, parents should allow them to stop and notify the teacher.  If this is a pattern, a plan should be put in place collaboratively with teacher and parents.

• If students miss school, the teachers should determine what work is absolutely necessary and come up with a plan with the families to have it completed, either at school or at home.