Don't Let the Dog Eat Your Homework

Let me begin by saying that I believe that kids should be kids. Kids need time to play, time for soccer practice, time for dance rehearsals, time for piano lessons, and time with family and friends. While homework is important, it should not get in the way of kids doing 'kid stuff'.  Therefore, I don't plan on assigning a lot of homework.

Homework will be assigned on Monday each week and should be completed by Friday (leaving everyone with homework-free weekends). Homework will be posted on Google Classroom. Kids can complete homework online and submit online. Kids can also print the homework and work offline. Then scan or take a pic and upload it in Google Classroom. If that's too much trouble, print it, complete it and send it in to school for me to check.

Reading homework: Sometimes there will be a reading response activity for homework. Most of the time, I will simply ask students to read for about 15 or 20 minutes each night. Kids become better readers by practicing reading, so I just want them to read. I would also like to encourage kids have conversations about books with someone in their family. Talking about books builds comprehension. 

Math homework: There will often be a math assignment. It will closely reflect what we have been learning in class.

Writing homework: Sometimes there may be a small, creative writing assignment, something familiar, something like what we've been practicing in class.  And no spelling homework. We've got that covered in class.  

Other Homework: Once in a while, Social Studies, Science and Other Topics will be reflected in homework. 

What can you do to support your child with homework? Help your child make a homework plan - when and where homework will be done. Also be available to clarify instructions if needed. Encourage your child to work neatly and accurately.  Encourage your child to work independently. Gradually shift the responsibility of completing homework to your child.  

Parents often ask, "Should I correct the homework?"  I say, yes... and no. Just like a teacher, offer your child some feedback or suggestions for improvement.  At the same time, don't nit-pick every little error.  I don't want homework to become a battle between you and your child. 

So, there's no need for the dog to eat the homework. Homework in Grade 2 will be a breeze.