HOMEWORK POLICY FOR RAINBOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Homework is any activity done outside the classroom to reinforce classroom instruction.  The purpose of homework is to provide the student with an opportunity to review and practice skills and information previously introduced and taught in the classroom.

At RES homework is considered a necessary adjunct to the educational program and to assist children in learning.  Assignment, review and evaluation of homework are an integral tool used by teachers in the education process.

Academically appropriate homework to support student learning is selected by the teacher according to the needs of students.  The time required for its completion will vary according to the age and ability of each student.  A variety of education approaches are used to aid students in their quest for life‑long learning.  Successful completion of homework assigned is intended to reinforce concepts taught in the classroom.  Parental involvement and support for the value and completion of homework is essential for student’s success in the education process.

In essence, the purpose for homework normally falls within the following four areas:

• To provide an opportunity for parents to play an integral role in their child’s education,
• To encourage students to be organized, self‑disciplined, responsible, resourceful and independent,
• To provide the opportunity for students to increase their academic abilities and achievement, and
• To reinforce and enhance the curriculum.

As a guideline, students are normally assigned homework two to four days per week depending on grade and developmental ability.  Students in our younger grades should be looking at about twenty to thirty minutes per night, middle grades thirty to forty-five minutes, and upper grades at forty-five to sixty minutes per night.  It should be understood that some students work at different paces and therefore could have more or have less than the times above.

Homework should be an extension of class work.  It should be practice on things already introduced and at least partially mastered.  With younger children the school will encourage parents to be involved and guide their children as they may need help with reading or writing.  Also, homework should be a positive experience and if parent and child work together in a happy way, the child will benefit more. 

For older children homework may include writing papers, research projects and projects in addition to further practice on what they have partially mastered in class.  However, teachers should clearly give step-by-step guidelines if the paper or project is complicated.   Older children may be able to work more independently.  However, it is good for parents to look over the child’s work to assure completion and understanding.  Again it should be a calm, positive experience and one that guides children into good work habits.

Homework that is given should be checked.  The teacher may do this in class or after class.  It is not expected that homework be 100% correct, as it is a learning experience.  However, at least 80% mastery should be our goal for every student.  All students in grades three through six will receive an assignment notebook.  This aids both student and parent in following the assignments given by the teacher so both students and parents can keep up to date on assignments.