Homework : Turning Hassles into Happiness

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

2. 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

3. Frequency and Duration of Homework *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. *Please see your child’s teacher if your child’s homework session consistently exceeds one hour.*

4. Teacher Responsibilities • Thoroughlyexplain 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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.

9. 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 • *Hanover County policy states the average time suggested for daily homework does not include time for long term projects-

10. 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!”

11. Questions??

12. Helpful Websites • http://www.solpass.org/ • http://www.discoveryeducation.com/parents/ • http://school.familyeducation.com/homework/activity/34550.html • http://www.pbs.org/parents/goingtoschool/helping_homework.html • http://www.nasponline.org/resources/home_school/homework.aspx *Please refer to the handout for study tips and suggestions that may be able to assist you at home

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