Homework Policy

Ensuring that homework is beneficial requires a balanced approach and clear communication between the student, the teacher and the families. Homework that is assigned should be purposeful, appropriate to the age level of the student, and tailored to the needs of the child and their family.

 

Reasons for assigning homework include practicing new skills, applying previously learned skills in new contexts, and/or fostering productive study habits and independence. Homework has the additional potential benefit of helping young children understand that learning happens everywhere, while also providing parents with information about our curriculum and opportunities to support their child in their learning.

 

The staff at Castlewood understands and promotes the importance of play as essential to fostering the cognitive, social, physical and emotional well-being of children. Therefore, time spent on homework should be in addition to, and never a replacement for play. With these ideas in mind, we practice the following approach to homework.

 

Grade	Monday, Wednesday, Thursday	Tuesday	Friday
K	Reading- 5 minutes with skill work Phonics Math assignment	Tap It Out Tuesday	Family Time
1	Reading- 15 minutes Math assignment	iReady	Family Time
2	Reading- M/W: 20 min Th: reading comprehension passage Math assignment	iReady	Family Time
3	Reading- 20 minutes Math assignment	iReady	Family Time
4	Reading- 20 minutes Math assignment *ELA extensions as needed	iReady	Family Time
5	Reading- 20 minutes Math assignment **HW as needed in other subjects	iReady	Family Time

 

 

Student Responsibilities
• To assume responsibility for completing homework independently and to the best of the student’s ability.
• To make sure to understand homework assignments by listening to directions, asking questions when something is unclear, and carefully reading instructions.
• To gather all necessary materials to complete assignments before leaving the classroom, and return homework assignments to school on time.

 

Family Responsibilities
• To provide a consistent routine and environment that is conducive to completing homework. Provide limits/guidelines on “screen time.”
• To ensure that the student receives the educational benefit from the assignment by encouraging independence, offering assistance and answering questions as needed without influencing the result.
• To notify the teacher if the homework is creating a problem at home

 

 

Teacher Responsibilities
• To provide meaningful homework assignments that students can complete independently.
• To clearly communicate homework directions and expectations.
• To monitor the amount of homework assigned so that it corresponds to school guidelines.