4M Homework Information

Strategies to Support Students at Home:

Together decide on best place to complete homework.
Designate a specific time for homework to be started and completed (some students like to take care of it as soon as they get home, others need a break first). I suggested having an end time 30-60 minutes before bed, except reading if reading is relaxing to avoid a stressful end to the evening.
The "When...Then..." approach maybe helpful. "When you finish your math, then you can take a five minute break." or "When you have completed your homework, then you may _______ (watch favorite show, etc.)."
To help with organization and reduce frustrations have frequently used materials in the homework location. (Suggested items: box, crate or bin for books such as Everyday Mathematics SRB and shape template, a "Just Right Reading" book, large ruled notebook paper or sprial bound notebook, dictionary, thesaurus, and other materials. Pencil box with pencils, pens, colored pencils, crayons, markers, highliters, erasers, glue stick scissors, stapler, paper clips, calculator (for checking work), compass, dice for games, and handheld pencil sharpener. Items that can be used for counters such as: dried pasta, plastic counters, etc.
Shaving creme, sugar or salt (with a few Jimmies or colored sugar added) are fun way multi-sensory ways to practice word study words, handwriting, math facts. Shaving creme on the shower or tub wall works well for homework practice and cleaning the tub at the same time!
Limit or restrict screen time (t.v., video, computer games, etc.) on school nights. Research shows a correlation that the more screen time students have (especially on school days) there is an increase in incomplete, reduced focus on homework and sleep difficulities. It is shown that limiting computer and video games 30-60 minutes prior to be helps induce a more peaceful nights sleep.

Homework Expectations:

All assignments generally completed within 30-45 minutes daily
Independent reading in a "Just Right Book" 10-15 daily
Parent reading
Word Study assignment (5-10 minutes) daily
Everyday Mathmatics Study Link (5-10) daily
Parent review (remind to use strategies but not doing it for student)
Parent & student signatures required (reading log & packet completion)

Homework is:

Generally completed within 30-45 minutes each night
Team work (student, parent(s) & teacher)
Student effort
Parent supported
Independent practice with discussion at times
Not to be tear provoking (send in a note or email me)
Graded on effort only (4 possible points)
Student's time to practice and apply skills & strategies taught
Sent home as a packet each Friday or next school day if cancellation
Self paced (with review of Word Study words daily)
Due Friday or next school day if snow day, etc.
Late or incomplete homework is due following school day
Automatically extended 1 day for each day absent
Student's responsibility to complete, pack & return
Not to be brought in by parents if forgotten (building responsibility)
Games when assigned
Parent reading when assigned
Parent review and signature required
Modified during short weeks
Not assigned during vacations
Modified based on individual needs

Review, Discuss, Reward and Celebrate!