Middle School Homework Guidelines

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BOARD OF EDUCATION HOMEWORK POLICY (Policy 6140)

Homework assignments provide practice to strengthen skills that already have been taught in class and to enhance learning.  Homework should not be a substitute for classroom instruction, nor used for disciplinary purposes.  Teachers shall differentiate homework assignments to meet the individual needs of students.  Teachers should take into consideration students’ access to educational and technological resources when making homework assignments.

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Middle School Homework Guidelines

Homework is defined as any assignment for study or preparation to be completed outside of class, specifically at home. Homework contributes toward building responsibility, self-discipline, and lifelong learning habits.

As with all schoolwork, but specifically with homework, the interaction among the teacher-student-parent is essential for successful completion of the tasks.  Yet, the final responsibility for completing the homework rests with the students.

Homework assignments include:

• Practice exercises to follow classroom instruction
• Preview assignments to prepare for subsequent lessons
• Extension assignments to transfer new skills or concepts to new situation
• Creative activities to integrate many skills toward the production of a product

Guidelines for Teachers

1. The assignment(s) have a purpose:
   1. to reinforce concepts introduced in class,
   2. to establish study habits,
   3. to participate in research activities,
   4. to enrich the instructional topic,
   5. to supplement and complement daily classroom activity,
   6. to help students to become more self reliant
2. Time is provided in class to clarify the homework assignment.
3. Credit is given for homework and is a part of the nine (9) week grade and generally should count from 10% - 30% of the grade.
4. Long term assignments have established checkpoints.
5. Generally, total homework should be approximately equal to 10 minutes times their grade level on a weeknight.  Sixth grade should expect about 60 minutes total time to complete homework, while eighth grade should expect about 80 minutes.
   This is assuming the individual has completed daily assignments to date.
6. Homework assignments and expectations recognize individual student differences, abilities, achievement levels and needs.
7. Homework is not restricted to written assignments.  Students should study and/or review notes and text daily.

Guidelines for Parents

1.  Set a regular, uninterrupted study time each day

2.  Establish a quiet, well-lit study area

3.  Monitor student’s organization and daily list of assignments

4.  Facilitate homework completion rather than help with homework content

5.  Be supportive when the student gets frustrated with difficult assignments

6.  Contact teacher to stay well informed about the student’s learning process

Guidelines for Students

1. Write down assignments

2.  Be sure all assignments are clear; don’t be afraid to ask questions if necessary

3.  Set aside a regular time for studying

4.  Find a quiet, well-lit study area

5.  Work on homework independently whenever possible so that it reflects student's ability

6.  Produce quality work

7.  Make sure assignments are done according to the given instructions and completed on time.