If you had to choose something that most students would agree on, not wanting to do homework is a hot contender. They’re tired, you’re tired, why would more learning be a good idea? But before you let Roger the Wonder Dog settle down with a nice hearty math worksheet, hear why at PACE Academy, homework is actually -gasp- a good thing!
Why Choose Homework
At Dr. Joseph F. Pollack Academic Center of Excellence (PACE Academy), we believe homework contributes toward building responsibility, self-discipline and lifelong learning habits. It is the intention of our K-8 public school to assign relevant challenging and meaningful homework assignments that reinforce classroom learning objectives. As appropriate, homework grades are modified based on students’ individual needs (i.e. IEP, 504 Plans).
The main purposes generally associated with homework are as follows:
- gives students a chance to review and practice what they have learned
- prepares students for the next day’s lesson
- provides opportunities to identify and learn to use resources such as the library, the Internet, reference books, and other community resources
- allows for more in-depth exploration of topics than is possible during class time
- helps students develop time management, study, and organizational skills
- provides parents with insights into what is being taught in the classroom and the progress of their children
How Much K-8 Homework
While students may feel like homework takes hours and years of their lives each and every day, the reality is at PACE Academy, we take into account attention span and effectiveness. Here is our approach, based on the studies of J.L. Epstein and F.L. Van Voorhis, for our tuition-free K-8 elementary school.
Guidelines for Quantity of Homework
Homework is as Easy as Reading
At our engaged public school, homework is not some unrelated packet of worksheets meant to burden our families. Reading with your child is a great example of what we consider to be reasonable homework. The best way to ensure that your child is a successful reader is to read together with them everyday. Take turns reading alternate pages, and find books that interest both of you. Have you read all the incredible graphic novels now available- they count!
It is also important that they see us enjoy reading, too; this will instill in them that reading is not only essential, but also an enjoyable part of daily living. Yep, that’s right, you’ve just been given an assignment: give your family your best “do not disturb me” look and finally catch up on something you’ve been meaning to read.
Reason #7: Too Much Fiber & Not Enough Protein
Sure, Roger the Wonder Dog may want to help you with everything, especially when it comes to eating, but there’s a reason dog food doesn’t come in notebook flavor. Instead, invite your dog up to cuddle and read WITH your child. Just don’t let him pick the subject or it will be reading the ingredients on the dog food bag over and over again.
Ready to set your child up for lifelong success? Join our PACE Academy Warrior K-8 family and enroll today!
About PACE Academy
Dr. Joseph F. Pollack Academic Center for Excellence (PACE Academy) is a tuition-free public charter school serving kindergarten through eighth grade in Southfield, Michigan. At PACE Academy, we empower our scholars to realize their fullest potential through meaningful educational opportunities. We partner with our families and community in preparing our scholars to become dynamic leaders in the 21st century by celebrating the importance of collaboration and accountability in all we do. Join our growing school, enroll today!