Goals for Home Assignments:
- establish good work habits
- foster enthusiasm for a broad range of topics
- reinforce skills learned in class
- enrich learning and develop thinking skills
I do not assign regular homework for the Enrichment class. Students may have work to do at home for the following reasons:
- Preparation for the next class - I may ask students to think about something or research a topic for the next class session.
- Incomplete Classwork - Students may bring work home if they didn't have time to finish in class. This work will be due the next class period.
Projects
A home project is assigned for each unit of study. The final product will be due the last week of the unit. A project sheet with instructions and expectations will be sent home to parents.
Creating home projects is a new experience for many elementary school students. They often have a grand vision of what they would like to create. Students know what they want, but may need assistance with plans, materials, and construction. I am aware of student capabilities, and am looking for effort, not perfection. I encourage families to work together, making the project a cooperative effort. If parents choose to help children at home, they should keep in mind that the purpose of parent support is to assist learning. Any help given should serve as a learning experience, not simply as a means of getting it "done." I am available each morning to help any students who have difficulty with assignments, need assistance with projects, or want advice. I may also be able to help with materials and resources.
Grading
Most assignments and projects are graded in three areas: accuracy, presentation, and elaboration. These attributes have been explained and demonstrated in class.
Accuracy: Students must complete all parts of the assignment. There should be minimal errors in content, grammar, or mechanics.
Presentation: Students are expected to turn in assignments that are neat, attractive, and well constructed or formatted. Students are learning to make oral presentations with confidence and poise.
Elaboration: I expect enrichment students to have high standards for themselves. A self-assessed "Good Enough" is not acceptable. Students should put extra effort into their work by adding details, descriptions, and personal connections.
Scores
4: Exceeds Expectations
Demonstrates exceptional effort and quality in assignments and projects
Works above and beyond minimum expectations
Uses excellent critical thinking skills
Exhibits superior leadership qualities
Works very well independently and in cooperative groups
Shows initiative and creativity
Has an outstanding work ethic
3: Consistently Meets Expectations
Demonstrates good effort and quality in assignments and projects
Works somewhat above minimum expectations
Uses good critical thinking skills
Exhibits some leadership qualities
Works well independently and in cooperative groups
Shows some initiative and creativity
Has a good work ethic
2: Marginally Meets Expectations
Demonstrates minimal effort and quality in assignments and projects
Sometimes works at minimum expectations
Rarely uses critical thinking skills
Demonstrates few leadership qualities
Needs reminders to work well independently and in cooperative groups
Shows little initiative or creativity
Project and Assignment Tips For Students
- Be sure to write your assignment in your agenda book and gather any needed books and supplies.
- Keep a folder for all Enrichment materials.
- Pace yourself when doing long-term projects. Do some of the parts each week, so you will not be in a last-minute rush to get it done. Allow at least a weekend to put on the finishing touches.
- Have a buddy to call if you have questions.
- Check your work for quality (remember accuracy, presentation, and elaboration).
- When finished, immediately put your work in your book bag.
- Let me know if you need help with materials or resources.
- See me before the due date if you want advice, or if you need more time.
- Before turning in work, check it for accuracy, depth of thought, and presentation.
- MAKE SURE YOUR NAME IS ON YOUR WORK!