Homework Expectation

School-Wide Homework Expectation

Working collaboratively with faculty and drawing upon both research-based articles and various state-wide district policies, we developed a shared understanding and expectation for homework at Smith Academy. Shared belief systems and consistent expectations will allow us to better serve students. 

Purposes of Homework: Homework is defined as written or non-written tasks assigned by a teacher to be completed outside the classroom. These assignments should complement class work and be relevant to the curriculum. Homework is a natural extension of the school day and an important part of a student's educational experience. Homework encourages self-discipline, pride in one's work, positive self-esteem, and an interest in learning. Homework reinforces the Hatfield home/school connection.

Kinds of Homework: Homework may be assigned in preparation for upcoming lessons or as an extension of class work.

  • Preparation Homework - given to prepare a student for upcoming lessons
  • Practice Homework - designed to reinforce lessons already taught in class
  • Extension/Creative Homework - intended to provide challenging learning opportunities for enrichment and extension of the lesson

These assignments reinforce the Massachusetts Curriculum frameworks and promote inquiry, problem solving, discovery, analysis, and application of essential concepts.

Administrator Responsibilities

  • Supervise the dissemination of homework policies and procedures to staff, students, and parents.
  • Monitor the implementation of homework practices according to established expectations.
  • Ensure clear lines of communication remain open between school and community concerning homework expectations.

Teacher Responsibilities

  • Provide for students' individual differences and acknowledge varied learning styles by varying homework assignments.
  • Establish guidelines/rubrics, appropriate to each assignment, for the assessment of homework.
  • Homework will count 5-15% of a student’s overall quarterly grade.
  • Give clear, concise directions, allowing time for students' questions.
  • Review the progress of long-term projects periodically.
  • Record and/or collect assignments as appropriate.
  • Make homework relevant to the lessons and useful for learning.
  • Use homework as one tool to gauge how well students are understanding lessons.
  • Provide prompt and meaningful feedback.
  • Discuss students’ needs and progress or challenges with parents as appropriate.
  • Ensure that students who have missed school understand make-up expectations.
  • Promote school and community relations that foster academic success.

Parent/Guardian

  • Provide a quiet study environment, free from distraction.
  • Communicate with educator if your child's work for a class seems consistently too easy, too hard, too little or too much.
  • Notify educators if situations arise that interfere with students’ ability to complete homework .
  • Be available to help your child, but please allow for proper self-exploration of their abilities. If you overly assist or complete your child's work, the educational process is compromised. 

Students

  • Students are expected to master the skills of independent inquiry by utilizing their notes, texts, and online resources when they are struggling.
  • Organize their homework assignments and deadlines in a planner or calendar.
  • Independently seek clarity on how to complete assignments before leaving class or school.
  • Complete homework on a consistent basis.
  • Work conscientiously for a reasonable amount of time on your homework, but move on or seek help if you struggle with a concept or skill.
  • Seek clarity when you are struggling to understand specific content or master a specific skill.