Homework : Turning Hassles into Happiness Pastries with a Purpose Washington-Henry Elementary School October 17, 2014 Graciously Sponsored by the wonderful WHES PTA 1

Click to edit the outline text format  Second Outline Level Third Outline Level  Fourth Outline Level Fifth Outline Level Sixth Outline Level Seventh Outline Level Eighth Outline Level Ninth Outline LevelClick to edit Master text styles Second level Third level Fourth level Fifth level What’s the purpose of homework? Highlights from our Hanover County Policy manual For the purpose of enriching and extending school experiences To supplement and reinforce the skills taught during the school day To benefit the student To assist students in becoming an independent and responsible learner 2

Frequency and Duration of Homework Grade LevelFrequencyDuration Kindergarten UnstructuredFlexible 1st Grade 3-4 times/week20 minutes 2nd Grade 3-4 times/week30 minutes 3rd Grade 4-5 times/week45 minutes 4th/5th Grade 4-5 times/week60 minutes* *Please see your child’s teacher if your child’s homework session consistently exceeds one hour.* * Incomplete class work may carry over to be completed at home. This work is separate from designated homework assignments. In the event that this happens frequently, it may be a good opportunity to discuss time management with your child. 3

Teacher Responsibilities Thoroughly explain homework and expectations Design activities that supplement and reinforce class lessons Differentiate assignments based on student needs and strengths Quality vs. Quantity Use discretion in making homework assignments over weekends and holidays to preserve time for family activities and long-term projects Assign homework at regular and consistent intervals Review in a timely manner 4

Click to edit the outline text format  Second Outline Level Third Outline Level  Fourth Outline Level Fifth Outline Level Sixth Outline Level Seventh Outline Level Eighth Outline Level Ninth Outline LevelClick to edit Master text styles Second level Third level Fourth level Fifth level Student Responsibilities Put forth best efforts Ask questions during homework explanation Try to complete independently or with minimal support Ask questions during review if needed 5

Parent Responsibilities Parents: review material with your child, i.e. check their facts, review study guides, and assist with studying Maintain an awareness of the child's homework assignments through SchoolNotes, newsletters, or Remind 101 (depending on teacher) Make available appropriate materials and resources, e.g., a quiet well-lighted work space and a regularly scheduled study/work time. Have on hand pencils, paper, glue, scissors, highlighters, etc. Give assistance when necessary; however, parents should not do the homework for the child. Confer with teacher on questions 6

A few notes from our 4th Grade Team With consistent expectations, our 4th grade team disperses homework differently: Mrs. Leadbetter Assigns daily, students record in agenda, lists on SchoolNotes page Mrs. Murray Assigns weekly, listed in newsletter, students record in agenda Mrs. Taylor Assigns daily, students record in agenda Mrs. Woods Assigns daily, students record in agenda, lists on SchoolNotes page 7

Click to edit the outline text format  Second Outline Level Third Outline Level  Fourth Outline Level Fifth Outline Level Sixth Outline Level Seventh Outline Level Eighth Outline Level Ninth Outline LevelClick to edit Master text styles Second level Third level Fourth level Fifth level Is this for a grade? While quizzes and tests are graded for accuracy, homework is only graded for completion. Weighting: class work and quizzes once, tests and projects twice Project work is to be completed at home. 8

Projects at Home Our 4th graders will enjoy an at-home project in Science and Social Studies this year. Teachers will: Communicate requirements in writing Explain the grading expectation to students Here’s a quick outline for your and your child: Finished written piece with physical representation Things to remember… Remind your child to pace him/herself Avoid buying project kits Projects will be weighted twice 9 *Hanover County policy states the average time suggested for daily homework does not include time for long term projects-

Click to edit the outline text format  Second Outline Level Third Outline Level  Fourth Outline Level Fifth Outline Level Sixth Outline Level Seventh Outline Level Eighth Outline Level Ninth Outline LevelClick to edit Master text styles Second level Third level Fourth level Fifth level What We Don’t Want… “I am sorry I can’t come out and play right now. I have to help my dad with my science project.” “Yay Mom! You got an A!” 10

Questions ?? 11

Helpful Websites ity/34550.html ity/34550.html _homework.html _homework.html ol/homework.aspx ol/homework.aspx *Please refer to the handout for study tips and suggestions that may be able to assist you at home 12

Thanks for coming to Pastries with a Purpose! Thanks, also, for your continued partnership with and support of our Homework Heroes! Enjoy your day. 13