Objectives | Homework Agenda | Work Folders | Computerized Report Cards |
Study Tips | Homework | Common Questions and Answers | Technology Expectations

| top |

Homework Agenda
We expect our students to have their homework agendas for each class period.  The agenda has holes in, so they should always reside in their binders. Fourth graders switch classes, i.e.-they have a different teacher for math and reading, but our goal is to teach them responsibility.  When they do not bring their materials, they cannot copy their evening homework down. This can result in many "0s" on assignments.  Please encourage your student to have his/her materials when they need them.  Also- parents, we ask that you sign the agenda NIGHTLY, which lets the teacher know that you have verified the work was checked and is complete, although possibly not correct. If your student loses their agenda, they must pay a $5 replacement fee, as they must always use their agendas. No other materials are allowed.
| top |

Work Folders
Work folders will go home each Friday. Please be sure to look over the papers in the folder.  Return the folder the following Monday.  Please RETURN ALL papers on the sign and return side within the folder. Any papers on the keep at home side you may keep for your reference. These will usually be stapled together, separate from the other papers.
| top |

Computerized Report Cards
The fourth grade uses computerized report cards. These report cards are identical to the paper ones, only they will have more room for your teacher to write specific comments about your child.  Please read these comments carefully.  With the Standards Based grading (1, 2, 3, 4), these comments will give specific things a child is weak and/or strong in. As always, sign the report card envelope and return it only.  Keep all papers found inside of the envelope, except for Resource or Speech papers which must be signed and returned.
| top |

Study Tips
Our students are required to know a lot of material for tests, even math!  They need to start studying and going over their notes nightly once they find out the date of a test.  Each teacher begins writing a test date on the homework board at least one week in advance of a test.  Students should study, using their books and notes for every test.
| top |

Homework
Homework will be assigned on Monday through Thursday nights. Some assignments will require more than one night’s completion time. Weekend assignments will only be made for a student needing make-up work due to an excused absence.

(taken from the Wendell Elementary G.T. Magnet Homework Plan; revised June 2006):

Homework is intended to enrich, reinforce, and extend the curriculum, and students have the responsibility for their own homework.

Our school implements the Wake County Public School System homework policy. Please refer to the student/parent handbook or www.wcpss.net for the complete policy.

Policy Guidelines:
1. Assignments will be specific and based on previously studied concepts for enrichment and/or review purposes.
2. Homework is considered an integral part of class instruction and is used to guide instruction. It is reflected in a student’s work habit grade.
3. Research-based guidelines for minutes of homework per day:
o 3-5 – 50 minutes per day

Student’s Role:
Although grade-level specifics vary, students are expected to make sure they understand the assignment and have the required materials to complete it before leaving school for the day. Students are also responsible for returning independently completed homework to school by the assigned time with any required signatures.

**Remember: Always do your best!

Parent’s Role:
Parent involvement is an important part of the total program. The parent’s role should be one of interest, praise, encouragement, and support.

General Guidelines:
1. Provide a quiet place to study that has good light.
2. See that the student has a certain time set aside to study.
3. Encourage the student to read daily. Younger children will need to read aloud to someone and/or have someone read to them.
4. Help the student organize his/her books and materials the night before so that he/she doesn’t forget needed materials the next day.
5. See that the student gets a sufficient amount of sleep each night.
6. Sign and return required materials each day (i.e. weekly folders and agendas).

Grade-Specific Guidelines:
2nd thru 5th grades – Parents may help with directions, but students will need to complete homework independently. Homework will be reviewed at school. As students learn new concepts, teachers expect that parents will not complete or correct their child’s homework so that teachers may better assess student understanding. Parents are encouraged to use the agenda or email to communicate any problems in understanding or completing an assignment.

Please observe the following when completing homework:

1. Homework is due at the beginning of class on the assigned date.
2. Generally, a letter grade is not given on homework assignments, and this system is used:

**Late work and papers without a name are incomplete and are not accepted.

3. Homework is written on the chalkboard during the basic instruction period.

Special assignments may also be posted on the wall for a week. Students will be given an agenda. Each child will be responsible for writing his/her own homework into the agenda. Parents are REQUIRED to initial the agenda NIGHTLY. This informs the teacher that the parent(s) has checked their student’s homework and that it is completed.

 
| top |