I am sure the words from this song were on the minds of many throughout the state this weekend. Many meteorologists have said that this was and continues to be a difficult storm to predict. This storm has also left many wondering why the decision to close schools came so early. Public schools serve as evacuation sites and schools in Hillsborough could be asked to house those coming from the Eastcoast. Thankfully, we are in a position to wait and it appears the Diocese has made a good decision. Let us remember to pray for those who were not so lucky and have felt the wrath of Dorian.
I would like to talk about Homework in this Blog. Homework should be meaningful. At the Elementary level, homework should include:
- Reading
- A few (3-5) well-chosen math problems
- Studying for tests
- Working on a piece of a project that must be completed at home (i.e., interview your parent, collect baptism photos, etc.)
- Practicing math facts, sight words, spelling words, etc.
It should be a rare occasion that students in grades K-4 have homework in science, social studies, or religion. I did not include grade 5 as they are preparing for middle school and expectations should increase as the year goes on. Once students reach middle school, the math facts, etc. can be replaced by flipping the classroom and more content area assignments. But again, it should be meaningful. Something I may not have mentioned to new teachers or reminded returning teachers is our policy as it relates to projects. As stated in our handbook, at least 90% of project work should take place at school under the guidance of the teacher. Not only does it allow the teacher to assist, but it also ensures that it is the student's work.
The debate for and against homework continues. What does seem to be clear is that as students get older (middle school and then high school), there is a positive correlation between homework completion and academic success. What helps most at the elementary level is allowing time for reading, both independently and being read to. However, other homework does have value at this age. It instills important learning habits and skills such as how to prepare for a test, time management, organizational skills, and responsibility.
What should you take from this? Continue to give homework, think carefully about what you assign, and give as little as possible but do give what is necessary.
Have a wonderful week. I will be at Tampa Catholic on Friday working on Religion Standards.
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