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Elementary homework: your questions answered
Recently, our Folsom Cordova elementary schools have received numerous questions about the type and volume of homework our teachers are assigning. We'd like to take the opportunity to help clarify our practices and guidance to teachers as we settle into the school year.
Will my elementary student still have homework this year?
As has always been our practice in FCUSD, homework is a school-based decision, so variations may exist from school to school.
However, the District has recently provided recommendations to our teachers to help make homework even more meaningful, valuable, and connected to instruction in the classroom.
What are the homework recommendations?
According to research, in order to maximize the benefits of homework, assignments should:
- Be brief
- Make sure to only include research-aligned and standards-based tasks
- Not be a project
- Reinforce skills already taught in the classroom. Nothing should be sent home that is at the student's instructional level. All work sent home should be at each student's independent level.
Why is this being discussed?
Research shows that homework in elementary school has the most benefit when it meets the criteria above. Our teachers work hard to continually improve student learning, including evaluating their approach to instruction - so it makes sense that homework would be a part of that process.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about my child's homework?
Always feel free to reach out to your teacher to talk about any aspect of your child's education, including homework. Your principal is also a resource should you have questions or want to better understand your school's overall approach to homework.