How Parents Can Help

Homework Habits

At James Thomson Elementary School we believe that the home is a large part of the total learning experience for children at all age levels. Parents can begin the Homework Habit by reading with younger children every night and, as the student gains reading skills, by listening to them read. School is an active and interesting place and it is always interesting to chat with your child about daily school experiences.

For the older students daily homework may be assigned (Grade Three, up to 30 minutes and Grades Four and Five, up to 45 minutes) The time is expected to be actual time doing homework. We recognize that our students are busy and travel often makes weekend homework difficult. Therefore, homework will usually be assigned Monday through Thursday. Larger term projects may be assigned from time to time as weekend homework.

If your child encounters homework difficulties please contact the teacher via a note or a comment in the planner. Individual teachers will determine the classroom homework assignment policy that is most effective for their class.

If your child has worked on homework for half an hour and has not completed the assignment, please initial the planner and communicate with the teacher indicating why the assigned homework was not completed.

We Use Homework in Elementary School:

To develop good study habits.
To provide for individual student's learning differences.
To have time for further research.
To promote good communication between school and home.

How Parents Can Help

Provide a regular study area.
Establish a consistent "homework time" (e.g. right after dinner).
Assist your child in:

find time to read together!
practicing math drills, games,
reviewing material for tests,
helping with spelling lists,
listening to reading and reading to your child,
discussing topics of interest.