Homework, when given, will have a purpose and meaning. The developmental age of the child and time needed to complete homework are taken into consideration by teachers in assigning homework.
Guidelines for Homework at MPCS
Grades One and Two
Homework is not typically given in first and second grade. If certain practice is needed or a project is given, on occasion, then there is clear and timely communication between the teacher and parent to facilitate the completion of the work. Parents need to be actively involved at this age. Reading to children at home daily is recommended at this age.
Grade Three
Regular or periodic homework may begin, as the teacher may deem appropriate, with no more than 15 minutes on a weeknight. Homework will help reinforce skills/concepts taught in class or will be work on a project for class. The purpose at this stage is to establish good habits around organization, time management and follow-through with work. Parents will be supporting these habits, but not doing the work for the child. Daily reading is also recommended at this age, in addition to any homework.
Grade Four
Regular homework begins if it has not yet. Nightly work should be no more than 20-30 minutes, preferably not over the weekend. The purpose at this stage is to have students take more responsibility for their work. They should turn it in daily or weekly and be held accountable for this work. Parents should be less involved in the homework, although may need to monitor its completion regularly. In addition, students are asked to read 15- 20 minutes per day after school on weekdays.
Grades Five and Six
Regular homework should not be more than 30-40 minutes a night on a school night. The purpose at this stage is for students to continue good work habits, take more responsibility for their work, and begin to practice time-management skills. Parents are less involved and may be monitoring completion or helping their child as needed, though most work could be done without parental support. In addition, students are asked to read at least 20 minutes per day after school on weekdays.
Grades Seven and Eight
Regular homework will be around 40-45 minutes a night on the weekdays. There will be more completion of classwork and long term assignments along with the daily practice. Parent should know what their children are doing for homework and monitor that it is completed. In addition, students are asked to read at least 20 minutes per day after school on weekdays.