Homework - How Much Is Appropriate?
by Mrs Mom
I recently had a conversation with another woman in my town about homework assignments, and it got me wondering…
She thinks our kids get too much homework, and I don’t share her opinion. My daughter is in 2nd grade and has a brief assignment every night, Monday through Thursday. It takes her about 15 to 20 minutes (or less) most nights. She is also supposed to read for a minimum of 20 minutes nightly. And just recently the teacher asked that all the kids spend 5 minutes nightly working with math flash cards to increase their ability to quickly come up with answers to their addition “math facts.” And throughout the week the kids are supposed to be studying their 20 spelling words for their spelling quiz on Friday.
The reading component of this isn’t really in question. My daughter would happily read for 20 minutes or more every night even if it wasn’t required. So, that brings the total amount of time to 20-25 minutes, plus a little spelling review.
My daughter likes doing homework, and most days cheerfully picks it up as soon as she gets off the bus and has a little snack. She has a gymnastics lesson once a week, and another activity (dance, swimming, soccer or softball, depending on the season) throughout the school year, and she has plenty of time for playdates with her school friends, and plenty of time for play on her own (she’s an only child) or some family time, too. It seems like a good balance.
So… My question… Does this amount of homework seem excessive for 2nd grade? I know that in our school, once the kids get to 3rd, 4th and 5th grade the amount of homework increases each year. It seems to make sense to me that they get a regular amount of homework in 2nd grade, so that they can develop the discipline required for getting it done, and get ready for the bigger challenges coming next year.
I am wondering how much homework is typical in other school districts. Also, any teachers out there who could share “a professional opinion” on the subject? THANKS!
Tag:homeworkPosted: February 4th, 2007 under Homework, School Related by Mrs Mom.
Comments: 4
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Comments
Comment from Kmom
Time: February 5, 2007, 2:40 pm
You ain’t seen nothin’ yet! Homework in our school is huge! Starting right on from 1st grade to 5th! It takes us hours at night to do homework.
Comment from Joey’s mom
Time: February 6, 2007, 4:19 am
I agree with you. My son has about 20 min of homework a night (except Friday). He gets it done rather quickly because he is a bit advanced in his subjects. We also use Dr. Cale’s method of work first, then play. However, if a child is struggling to understand a subject or is over-scheduled, I could see where a parent might feel that their child had too much homework. The parent needs to sit down and get involved. Not do the assignments for them, but watch and see if their child is struggling and with what concepts. Then, a conference with the teacher may be in order. Also, take a step back and look at their child’s schedule. We allow our son to be involved in two activities a season, that way he gets a balance and variety.
Comment from Dawn McDonnell
Time: February 6, 2007, 12:15 pm
Dear Mom’s
Regarding homework. I have 3 children. 1 girl (kinder) 2 boys 4th &5th grade. We live in North Fl.
I personally have moved 8 times throughout the northeast in C, Westchester NJ and Long Island. Every area is different regarding homework. Each teacher is different and each child takes on a different personality in this life journey of learning.
I chose to stay home and I had one son who did have an over
abundance of homework to include laptop classes in 3rd grade doing powerpoint presentations. This is a public school.
His teacher was tough. My other sons teacher was easier.
This is life. Homework should be review of the materials.
Often there are many projects that do not seem necessary and I find parents do them for their children.
The whole point is to prepare them to compete in the world
on their own. So, let them do it themselves with little parental help and hold them responsible for their choices. Keep the standards. They will test you until they are gone.
Good luck
Its tough being a good parent.
Comment from Phyllis
Time: February 6, 2007, 3:18 pm
I would sure love to agree with you Moms, but having a child with newly diagnosed ADHD/ADD, homework is tough! Expecially when a teach expects him to do all his unfinished work from school! He sits for 6-7 hours, and then to expect him to sit another hour or two, forget it! He’s so hyperactive when he gets home, he can’t still still and focus. While we are trying medications, it may be a long road until he is “normal” like other kids.
We just changed schools, and his new teacher is WONDERFUL! She understands his needs, has lots of structure, but does not expect him to make up much incomplete work. He is now enjoying school for the first time! Homework is reasonable and “easy” compared to his last teacher. His incomplete work, punitive consequences, and stress level at his previous school were damaging his self esteem. Since changing schools, my stress level has just come down 5 notches, as well. I thank God for teachers who understand each child in the class and encourages each one to do his/her BEST, which is not always the same for each child.
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