Homework
Believe it or not, homework is an essential
part of First Grade. It gives the students a great opportunity to begin
organizing the use of their time and to set up successful habits that will
last for years to come. Homework should not take long or be
frustrating. I believe 10-20 minutes is appropriate for this age,
depending on their mood and your family schedule. You know your child best, so use your judgment when deciding how
much time your child spends doing homework. As a
first grade team we feel the most important homework activity your child can do
is reading daily. This could include either your child reading to you, or
you reading to your child.
Another
aspect of our homework is playing math games that support our Investigations
math curriculum. These give the opportunity for the children to practice
what they’ve learned in class. Look for materials that might include game
boards and cards. Please create a place to keep these
materials. Your child will need them throughout the year.
As
mentioned earlier, Homework folders will come home each Monday and should be
returned each Friday with their completed homework inside.
Homework
provides the opportunity to begin to learn responsibility and time
management. Please help your child practice these behaviors.
If you/your child ever has any questions about the homework, please contact me!
*Other activity ideas will come home as the year
continues and their needs advance, but hopefully this gives you an idea of
where to start. Set aside a time and spot for daily homework routines and
you will definitely see increased progress over time. Remember that the
attention span of your child is short and homework shouldn't be
frustrating. Five or ten minutes may be enough on some days and other
days your child may be motivated and want to work longer. Make it fun and always remember to read each night.
