Homework
My goals for homework:
- -help foster a love of reading
- -give students a chance to reflect on their learning and make academic choices
- -promote organizational skills and good study habits
Homework Components
Reading
Students should be reading for 30 minutes every night. I require students to record their reading each night so that I can help support students to find just right books for reading at home. If the book is too hard, they will not be understanding what they are reading. If it is too easy, they will not be growing as a reader. Check out this link for ideas on how to tell if it is a just right book for your child. In addition, students should be interested in the book they are reading. Here is a list of suggestions of books for 3rd and 4th grade readers.
Academic Choice
I believe that homework should suit the individual child's needs. Therefore, each week students will be given a variety of choices to work on at home to help with their learning at school. In addition to reading, they should spend 20-30 minutes on these choices. Three times a week students will be choosing a word study activity to practice their words. I will let parents know if there are particular choices that I feel will benefit your child the most. Students will record their choices each night and parents will sign a log to bring in each week. I will ask for this to be signed and returned each week to help students build the habit. I appreciate your support in holding them accountable.
Here are some examples choices that will be offered each week:
-Freckle (Individualized online math program)
-Xtra Math (Individualized math facts practice)
-Math flashcards
-Writing/Research project
-Type to Learn (Structured typing program)
-Practice word study words
-Provided math games to match with current unit
These choices may change during different units and times of the year.