Homework Info:
Homework is essential in 5th grade. We give a very reasonable amount of homework, you should be doing about an hour of homework a night. If it is taking more than an hour, please stop where you are. Draw a line or make a note of what you were able to complete in that time. Please have a parent write a note explaining that you worked for an hour. We care that you try! There should be evidence of work being attempted. When homework is not turned in, you will receive a homework slip that is to be signed by a parent and returned the next day with the assignment. If it becomes a consistent problem, it will lead to missing recess or other fun activities. It is important for you to stay on top of your homework nightly, so you do not fall behind in class.
Spofford Pond School Homework Policy (copied from 2026 Handbook)
Homework
The development of good habits of home study is a requisite for the competent elementary school student. Teachers assign homework to assist students in developing responsible behaviors in appropriate ways. A consistent implementation of the homework policy aids in the development of these good habits and assists students, parents and teachers toward a better understanding of, and a more positive attitude toward, the system’s expectations.
The amounts shown in the following table are recommendations. Your child’s teachers have the discretion to deviate from the recommendations based on the nature of the specific class, the methods of the individual teacher and the very nature of the assignments. Teachers should not give homework assignments to students as punishment. In cases where two or more teachers provide instruction to a class, the teachers must collaborate to ensure an appropriate load for students.
At the beginning of each year the Principal discusses this policy with the faculty and parents to outline the elements of appropriate homework assignments. A teacher who wishes to deviate significantly from the policy seeks approval in advance from the Principal. You should expect your child’s teachers to inform you of their plans for homework assignments and related procedures at the beginning of the school year.
All assignments made for homework should:
● Have a purpose clearly understood by the student.
● Provide further information or reinforce skills being developed in the classroom, at the time of the assignment.
● Be designed for successful completion without parental aid.
● Be corrected, and where appropriate, be discussed in a class.
Grade 5
● Approximately 50 minutes, Monday – Thursday.
● Daily reading for 30 minutes minimum in addition to the assigned homework.
● Long-term projects will require extra time in addition to regularly assigned homework.
Students in grades 3-6 will have an Agenda Mate. Agenda Mates are provided to students at the beginning of each school year and are useful for keeping track of daily homework and long-term projects. Projects and long-term assignments are sometimes included in homework assignments and occasionally may require additional time. Teachers may assign the homework on a daily or weekly basis.
Please Note: When a student is unable to complete an assignment despite using his/her time wisely, you may sign your child’s Agenda Mate noting this in lieu of your child completing the homework. If this occurs repeatedly, a conference should be held with your child's teacher.
Homework Responsibilities
Students need consistency in choosing when, where and how they should complete their assignments. Recognizing individual differences, we offer the following guidelines: a well-lit study area free of distractions, necessary “tools,” and adequate time allotted. It is important for parents to maintain a positive attitude and to provide encouragement and guidance when needed.
Homework Parent Responsibilities
● Provide a suitable place for study, with a consistent study time.
● Encourage your child to accept responsibility for finishing his/her homework.
● Assist with, but do not do, your child’s homework, as needed.
● Oversee long-term projects and assist your child in learning to budget his/her time appropriately.
● Recognize that homework is not limited to written assignments. It may also include studying, reading and researching.
● Communicate with teachers if your child is unable to complete assignments, either because of circumstance or ability.
● Maintain a consistent, positive attitude towards the homework policy.
● Understand that completion of necessary assignments may require parental support and additional time due to your child’s individualized learning style.
Homework Teacher Responsibilities
● Assign homework that is meaningful and useful.
● Emphasize study skills as part of daily classroom learning.
● Allow time for students to ask questions in order to clarify the homework assignment.
● Check assigned homework on the day it is due.
● Evaluate long-term projects in a timely manner.
● Provide the opportunity for both short- and long-term assignments.
● Maintain open communication with other staff to coordinate homework load.
● Inform parents of their responsibilities in monitoring homework.
● Communicate with students and parents when problems arise concerning homework.
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