Why is homework a vital part of education? 

Homework is a vital part of education because it helps the student retain the skills that are introduced in the classroom each day.  Just like an athlete who must practice to become an expert at their sport, a student must practice to become an expert at their academic skills.  Here are some suggestions for helping your child with homework.

• Make a "quiet corner" where students can work.
• Help students ONLY when they ask.  Independence is the KEY to a healthy self esteem and school success.
• READ the DAILY PLANNER!  I will communicate weaknesses and strengths of your child.
• READ DAILY WITH AND TO YOUR CHILD!  Research shows a direct link to school success with children who have a broad reading background!

Requirements:

Your child is expected to complete all assignments in class, but in the instance that your child does not complete assignments they are to complete the missed class work at home as homework.  Your child is expected to read nightly.   Remember a good rule of thumb for the amount of time spent on homework is; ten minutes of homework per grade level.  (Example: Kindergarten (Primary 1st year) = 10 minutes, 1st grade (Primary 2nd year = 20 minutes, etc.)  So, homework should never last more than 30 minutes on a given evening for a Primary student in their 3rd year of school.  

It is your child's responsibility to complete their homework.  The failure to complete homework and return it during the week will result in losing planned fun events.  A pattern of late assignments may result in the consequence of after school detention.  A notice will be sent home if this becomes an issue. 

How do I know if my child is reading at the appropriate reading level? 

You will know your child's reading level after I have assessed each child.  During your reading practice each evening always challenge your child to read "a little" above his/her reading level, but in their reading range.  This builds a stronger vocabulary and raises their reading comprehension.  NEVER let your child read at a frustration level! Click here for a list of books  in the library for your child's appropriate reading level.  After reading for the required amount of time each evening allow your child to revisit stories that are their old favorites because this builds fluency and supports their enjoyment for literature.

Here is a good rule of thumb to help you know whether or not your child is reading a book that is too difficult.  When your child chooses a book survey (look through) it.  Turn to any page and let them begin reading.  If your child reaches five words or more they cannot decode then they have chosen a book that is to difficult.  Your child may reach what we call "frustration" if made to continue reading this selection.  When this happens say to your child, "Let's choose another book.  This book sounds like a dream book.  Let's "dream" about reading this one another time in the near future."  But, never say to your child, "This book is too hard for you."  This may discourage him or her and have the opposite affect on their reading confidence. 

Do you ever wonder how you can help your child become a better student?  Check out these book titles: Scholastic Homework Reference Series  A great series to help YOU, help your child.

Thanks for supporting your child academically and for teaching them to be responsible for their own learning. 

My child wants extra practice what can I do?

If you child wants extra practice on math skills click here for great practice and give him/her a hug from me!

For other skills click here.