Home Sweet Homework
Homework! It always seems that little brother or sister can't wait for homework, while big brother or sister wishes it would just disappear! Luckily, for most first-graders, this is the first year that they've had homework on a regular basis, and are usually quite excited by it! Homework in first grade is primarily about developing responsibility in our children. They are responsible to bring home the assignment, complete it with a parent's guidance, and then return it. These skills will help to serve the child well later in his/her school life!
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
First graders should spend no more than 15 minutes each evening on homework. If your child is consistently spending more time than this, or if a particular assignment takes considerably longer, please let me know. If your child is tired and unable to continue, please do not force it; he/she can finish the following day. While our goal is to instill responsibility and increase attention span, we all have days when we're not at our best!
A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS -- PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Much of the assigned homework in first grade is designed to be done with family members. There are games, interviews, questions, etc. that may accompany a homework assignment. Even independent tasks, however, need parental involvement. Always check your child's work, and sign and date it. Unless otherwise specified, homework is due the following school day. Parents often wonder, "Should I correct my child's mistakes? How will the teacher know he/she is having a problem?" My advice is, yes, point out the mistakes to your child in a gentle way, and use that opportunity to reteach and clarify the skill. If you would like me to know about a particular problem area, always jot a note, and I'll respond as soon as possible.
HOMEWORK SCHEDULE
(SUBJECT TO CHANGE, OF COURSE!)
MONDAY - Spelling and Phonics. The weekly spelling list and sentences are given out, with an attached assignment. Early in the year, it is often writing the spelling words. Later on, assignments can include using the words in sentences or stories, writing rhyming words or putting in ABC order.
TUESDAY - Poetry. Your child has a poetry binder which should come home each Tuesday and go back to school on Wednesday. The poem for the week should be in your child's take home folder. Your child should read the poem with or to you, and then complete the accompanying task. Always have your child read to you some of the other poetry he/she has collected. Click below to read details about our Poetry Homework Assignments.
WEDNESDAY - Math. Often the assignment will be a game to play with family members or a skillsheet reinforcing certain math concepts.
THURSDAY - It varies. Early in the year it may be to simply study for Friday's spelling test. As the year progresses, it may be a phonics/spelling review.
FRIDAY - Have a great weekend!
Read more about Poetry Homework Assignments!
Read more about our curriculum!
Read more about spelling!
Read more about poetry!
I hope this has answered some of your questions concerning first grade homework! Please feel free to contact me about any specific concerns!
Buzz back home!
Some graphics from Paint Pots (thank you!)