The Importance of Homework
Homework is not simply busy-work assigned to children to keep them
occupied at home. Homework assignments and studying serve several
educational needs that are essential to receiving a complete education.
They provide an opportunity for children to develop self-discipline,
study habits, and time management skills. Children can set homework
goals and enjoy a feeling of accomplishment when the goals are met.
Children learn how to be independent and responsible. They practice
taking initiative by beginning projects on their own and studying when
necessary. Homework also closes the gap between school and home.
Learning should happen at home as well as in school.
Types of Homework
- Practice homework allows kids to review what they covered in class.
This increases comprehension of a subject or topic while helping
children retain it for longer periods of time.
- Preparation homework helps children prepare for an activity or in-class assignment. This includes research and brainstorming.
- Extension homework includes long term assignments such as papers or
projects. These assignments should correlate with subjects kids are
learning in the classroom.
Parents Can Help
Parents can help kids succeed at homework. Setting aside a specific
time every day can make homework part of a child's daily routine. Find
a quiet and distraction-free area that your child can use when doing
his or her homework. Review homework assignments with children and
provide support and guidance, but be sure not to do the work for them.
If assignments are unclear, communicate with the teacher and ask
questions. Keep all supplies students may need at home. It also may be
helpful to introduce kids to the many resources available that can make
homework easier. The library and internet are helpful for researching
for reports and projects.
Most importantly, parents should provide constant support and
encouragement. Demonstrate to children how important homework is by
taking an interest and guiding them.
Beginning August 6, your child will receive regular homework each school night. Your child's homework assignment will be listed on their "Daily Report". Homework should take about 20 minutes to complete. Please let me know if the homework is taking particularly long, or if your child does not understand part of the homework, so that I may provide extra help for him/ her at school. I check the homework everyday, and will circle incorrect answers and place it in the "For Home" side of your child's folder. Please review and correct the homework and leave it at home.
Another important part of your child's homework is preparing for weekly memory verse, spelling and vocabulary tests. A hand-out including these study items will be sent home every Monday and your child will be tested on these items each Friday (unless otherwise noted). In addition, your child should spend 20 minutes reading, or being read to each night.
Special project-based homework assignments will take the place of regular homework at least one week per quarter. These assignments will allow you and your child to extend upon the project-based unit taking place in the classroom. Detailed instructions will be sent home in advance. The assignments are meant to be enjoyable and exciting, so have fun with them!