OBJECTIVES
There are several objectives of homework in this class. First, studies show improvement in student mastery/performance when they practice skills at home that are currently being taught in the classroom. Secondly, homework allows students to demonstrate that they can solve problems or perform various skills/concepts independently (away from the classroom setting). Third, parents are able to see what their child is currently learning, areas they're strong in, and/or need further practice with. Lastly, homework provides an opportunity for parents to provide additional support in needed areas.

HOMEWORK EXPECTATIONS
Students will be be assigned homework nightly, Monday through Thursday. Most homework will be due the following day, although periodically assignments will be due at a later date (especially more involved projects or lengthy reading response assignments). Students will log homework in their "Reminder Binders" at the end of each school day. These logs must be signed by a parent each night. Students will not be benched for unsigned logs, but students will lose their homework point for the day. These points allow them to earn end of the semester parties, and end of the year activities such as the 5th Grade Pool Party.
Homework will be turned-in, as well as parent signatures checked, the following morning - first thing. Homework will be considered incomplete even if a student did it but it was forgotten at home, or if a parent signature is missing. No phone calls will be allowed home that morning to ask a parent to bring it in for them. Please help your child be responsible by supporting the idea that their homework is not completed until you have signed-off on it and it is packed away in their backpacks for the following day. These crucial responsiblity and organizational skills will only benefit them as they move onto middle school and beyond.

INCOMPLETE HOMEWORK
Students with incomplete homework will be given the opportunity to complete their missing homework during recess that day. If homework was forgotten at home or a signature was missing, they can work on other incomplete class work, or simply get ahead on their reading during recess.

WHAT WILL HOMEWORK LOOK LIKE? HOW MUCH?
Most nights, students can expect to have a reading and response assignment, as well as a math practice page and a spelling/vocabulary contract. District policy is 60 minutes. If your child is continuously taking a significantly longer time to complete their nightly homework, and they're diligently working at it during the allotted time, please see me so we can modify homework as needed for your child.

MAKE SCHOOL AND HOMEWORK A PRIORITY
We're all busy - it's seems especially now adays. Our kids and families are active in all sorts of enriching and important after-school activities, from sports and music to mid-week church meetings. But, it's vitally important that school remains a priority. Work out a schedule that allows your child to participate in their various activities while also putting forth their best in school. Completing homework and being present in school is of the utmost importance for your child's developing attitude toward their education, as well as academic success.