IKB
The term “homework” refers to an assignment to be prepared
during a period of supervised study in class or outside of class or which
requires individual work in the study hall or home.
The purposes of homework are to improve the learning processes,
to aid in the mastery of skills, and to create and stimulate interest on the
part of the pupil. Homework can serve as
a vital link between the school and family.
Homework is a learning activity which should increase in
complexity with the maturity of the pupil.
With increased maturity, learning should become an independent
activity. This should be established
through consistent assignments which encourage students to investigate for
themselves and to work independently as well as with others. Homework teaches responsibility, work ethic,
ability to plan, and study skills.
Teachers will make meaningful homework assignments. The purposes should always be clearly
understood by both the teacher and the pupil.
Students and parents should be clear as to how homework will affect
students’ grades.
Homework assignments should be consistent in terms of the
amount given each day and the time required for each assignment so that a
pattern of meaningful homework can be established by the teacher and/or the
student. Students are responsible for
making up homework assignments due to absence.
The information for any homework assignment should be clear and
specific so that the pupil can complete the assignment. Consequences for not turning in homework on
time should be clearly understood.
Homework should not require the use of reference materials not
readily available in most homes, school libraries, or the public library, and
should require the use of those materials only when the pupil has had
instruction in the use of them.
Homework is not to be used as a form of punishment under any
circumstances.
Some form of homework should be required at all grade
levels, but a mixture of mandatory and voluntary homework is most
beneficial. The assignment might be as
simple as to study for a weekly spelling test, complete work not done during
the day, or read a book for a future report.
“Homework” might also refer to family activities of an educational
nature (such as read a story, help with cooking, play a game, practice flash
cards, listen to the news, read a newspaper, visit a library or museum, and so
on).
APPROVED: December, 1990
Guidelines on the frequency
and duration of assignments are:
1. Grades 1 to 3 – One to three
nights a week, 15-30 minutes a day;
2. Grades 4 to 6 – Two to four
nights a week, 30-60 minutes a day;
3. Grades 7 and 8 – Average
of five nights a week, 60 to 120 minutes a day;
4. Long range assignments only
should be made for weekends, rather than nightly homework;
5. Daily assignments may be
worked on during school study periods, as well as at home.
Parents can assist the success of homework by creating a home
environment that facilitates student self-study. The child should be provided with a well
lighted, quiet place to study. A
consistent, scheduled time for your child to do his/her homework is very
important. When teachers request that
tests, quizzes, comment cards, “blue books,” and homework assignments be
signed, it is important for your child’s progress that you respond in a timely
manner. Parents should contact the
teacher if children are having problems with homework. A positive, supportive attitude toward
homework is part of the partnership between home and school that makes
education successful.