HOMEWORK

Purpose of Homework

The purpose of homework is to help students become self-directed, independent learners and is related to the educational progress of the student. It serves to help all students reach their instructional goals. Specific homework assignments may

• ·        Strengthen basic skills;
• ·        Extend classroom  learning;
• ·        Stimulate and further interests;
• ·        Reinforce independent study skills;
• ·        Develop initiative, responsibility and self-direction;
• ·        Stimulate worthwhile use of leisure time;
• ·        Acquaint parent with the student's work at school.

Students in grades 2 through 8 will be issued an assignment book. The assignment book is also referred to as an agenda book. The purpose of this book is to help students learn to keep an accurate homework account, to plan for long-term assignments, and to learn to allot the time necessary to complete assignments. Students are required to bring their assignment book to all classes including homework club if applicable. Should the assignment book become lost, the student will be required to purchase a new one for $5.00.

Length of Time on Task

Homework assignments each night should take approximately the amounts of time listed below. If the length of time your child spends on homework varies greatly from these guidelines, please consult with the classroom teacher.

Grade 1:            15-20 minutes

Grade 2            20-30 minutes

Grade 3            30-40 minutes

Grade 4            40-50 minutes

Grade 5            50-60 minutes

Grade 6            60-70 minutes

Grade 7            70-80 minutes

Grade 8            80-90 minutes

Parental Involvement

Parents can help with homework by doing the following:

·        Provide an environment conducive to learning at home;

·        Provide a quiet place to read and study away from television and other distractions;

·        Provide good lighting, a pencil and paper;

·        Provide a desk or flat surface for writing.

Make-up Work

Students are responsible for contacting the teachers for missed assignments. If a student is absent due to illness or suspension, the student is expected to make up the work that was required. Teachers will develop reasonable timelines for make-up work.

Extra Help

Students may always seek extra help from his/her teachers if the work is difficult or the student has been absent. Students may arrange times to stay after school for extra sessions or make-up. Eastford Elementary School sponsors a Homework Club from 3:30 to 4:30 Monday through Thursday.