Homework Update

Hi Everyone,
         The first trimester is finished and it's time to up the expectations a bit.
Reading:
Students should be reading "Something" every night, Monday - Thursday.  Right now we are still reading Fish in a Tree and Wonder. There are nights that the students don't have to read one of those books because we didn't have reading that day.  Starting this trimester, they can always read something.  This is different than first trimester.  Students should be reading every night. (5th grade will start this tomorrow, I told them no reading for tonight.) Many students have 2 books in their books bags for this reason.  Storyworks or Storyworksjr. are great places to go and read.  Students know how to get to these sites, and the password for both is frogjar5.
Lexia:
Lexia is a computer program and the students work through levels.  Lexia goes to the end of 5th grade at Level 21.  Every student took a placement test in September that placed them at a level.  Once a student finishes a level, they receive a "Skillbuilder" packet that allows them to practice on paper what they did during that level.  These packets are to be kept in the students book folders and can be worked on at home.  Students can always access Lexia through the computer at home.

Rule of Thumb with regards to homework: 10 minutes per grade level.  4th graders should work no more than 40 minutes a night on homework.  5th grade should work no more than 50 minutes on homework.  So... students should read first and then once that is finished, work on a Lexia packet if they have one or go on Lexia or iready Math for the remainder of the time.  Computer programs are not mandatory to work on at home, but are there if you want.

My thoughts on homework:  I believe in homework.  I believe that homework should be independent and not frustrating.  If a child ever gets frustrated during homework, then he or she should put it away and parents need to email us or write us a note.  Homework is a place where students can practice what they have learned and learn time management.  If something comes up just send an email or write us a note.

Finally, students are expected to be prepared for class and be ready to learn once they enter the classroom.  Students have a choice everyday... take the class when it is happening or take the class the next day before school or after school.  Students will not be allowed to disrupt other students' learning.  Students are to pay attention and participate.