Homework Policy

Definition

Homework is any planned educational activity to be completed by the student outside of the regular class.
Philosophy

We believe that homework is an integral part of the educational process and serves as an extension of classroom activities. Generally speaking, we have found that research indicates a positive relationship between homework and student achievement. In accordance with the Union Area School District’s Philosophy of Education, we also believe that homework should be based on the individual student’s needs, capabilities, and/or interests.

Objectives

To reinforce, maintain, and extend classroom learning
To stimulate new learning
To increase the involvement of each student with the learning task
To develop student responsibility, time management, and self-confidence
To promote creativity
To establish communication between parent and child/home and school on the importance of learning
To promote good study habits and techniques

Assignment Guidelines

As a child advances through school, it is reasonable to expect that the amount of homework assigned will increase. Remember always, homework should never be used as punishment or needless busy work.

In grades K-3, homework should be assigned 2-3 times a week for a total of 30 minutes of work for all subject areas.
In grades 4-6, homework should be assigned daily for a total of two hours of work for all subject areas each day.
In grades 7-8, homework should be assigned daily for a total of one and one half hours of work for all subject areas each day.
In grades 9-12, homework should be assigned daily for a total of two hours of work for all subject areas each day.

Types of Homework Assignments

There are numerous types of homework assignments that can be effective in various situations. Examples of these types are as follows:

Practice – provide the students with the opportunity to continue that which has been presented in class, to reinforce newly acquired skills.
Preparation – assignments aimed at preparing student for next lesson.
Extension – assignments intended to extend a previously learned skill, body of knowledge, or the thinking process.
Creative – provides students with an opportunity to apply previously learned knowledge in a creative, or imaginative manner.

Homework Responsibilities

Homework Responsibilities

A systematic approach to homework that clearly defines the role of administration, teachers, parents, and students can increase the frequency of the desired results. It is essential that all individuals assume specific responsibilities.
Administration
Inform teachers, parents, and students of homework policy
Provide for periodic review of homework policy guidelines
Encourage teachers to comply with the district’s homework policy

Teachers

Be familiar with the district’s homework policy
Develop individual practices that are consistent with the district’s homework policy
Make assignments meaningful to the student and relevant to the lesson
Develop criteria by which homework is to be evaluated
Insure purpose and directions are clear and concise to promote student understanding
Make certain that students have the proper skills and materials to complete assignments
Develop and communicate a make-up policy to students
Provide a means for notifying parents of homework quality and completeness
To avoid homework overload, communicate with students and/or teachers concerning other assignments

Parents

Be familiar with the district’s homework policy and teacher’s expectations
Demonstrate a commitment to the importance of homework
Provide an appropriate study environment (ie. time, materials, space, conditions)
Motivate and give assistance to child
Provide feedback to the school regarding homework
Maintain consistency with homework practices

Students

Be familiar with the teacher’s expectations concerning homework
Demonstrate a commitment to the importance of homework
Develop a system for remembering assignments
Complete assignments on time, as directed by the teacher
Budget time to complete assignments
Use an appropriate study environment (ie. time, materials, space, conditions)
Request help when needed
Be responsible for making up missed assignments