Homework is assigned at the discretion of the teacher. It is not "busy work," but rather a reinforcement or extension of the classroom activity. The teacher utilizers homework assignments to check the level of mastery for each student and to target those students who may need extra help. Homework is not only written work, but also studying and reading.
The amount of time needed for homework depends on the needs of the individual student.
The following, however, is a typical time frame:
Kindergarten - Approximately 10-20 minutes
Grades 1 & 2 - Approximately 20-30 minutes
Grades 3 & 4 - Approximately 30-40 minutes
Grades 5 & 6 - Approximately 40-60 minutes
Grades 7 & 8 - Approximately 60-90 minutes
Some students will take longer to do their homework than others. Some students will need more adult assistance than others. All students, however, need some parental involvement to develop effective home-study skills. As the student grows and matures, they should be able to do more and more on their own.
It is impossible to over-emphasize the impostance of developing good study habits. Success in school depends on the effective use of one's time.
A Serious Student :
Finds a quiet place to study - no electronic distractions
Goes to a quiet place regularly - not just to cram
Arranges homework from the most difficult to the easiest of subjects; has a dictionary and uses it frequently
Re-reads paragraphs that are difficult to understand
Learns to outline the main topics of longer passages
Proofreads everything he/she writes
Writes legibly so time is not wasted in reading what was written
Is attentive in class and ask questions
Asks for help after school when necessary
Does homework immediately after school or at home after a short break
Keeps physically fit - eats balanced, nutritious meals, gets sufficient regular sleep, and does adequate exercise
Keeps a balance between homework and extracurricular activities
Students are responsible for bringing home books and papers necessary to complete assignments. If homework is not completed on the day it is due, the child will still be required to complete the assignment. Furthermore, the grade given for the assignment may reflect a penalty.