Homework
3rd graders should complete approximately 30 minutes of homework every day. Any assignments not finished in class must be completed at home. Should your child finish his/her work in class, s/he should do the following:
Practice their math facts (flashcards, or see the Links page for some websites) 5 minutes every day. Rapid and accurate recall of basic math facts, especially addition and subtraction, will make learning higher-order concepts easier to grasp. Begin with addition. After addition facts are mastered, continue on to subtraction, multiplication, and finally, division.
Read for at least 20 minutes every evening. Having been a reading specialist for several years, I emphasize reading to my third graders, for I believe that if a child excels in reading, s/he will excel in most subjects. This can be done in a variety of ways:
Have your child read and reread his or her library book or own book aloud to you. Practice reading fluently (pausing at appropriate punctuation marks, reading smoothly, etc) and with expression. Studies have shown that reading fluently improves comprehension.
Read children’s magazines.
Read the book that your child is reading to himself/herself. Discuss story elements such as characters, plot, setting, theme, etc. Talk about what you both liked or didn’t like.
Find child-appropriate websites and have your child read a biography about his or her favorite athlete, actor, author, etc. Discuss what new things your child learned.
The main thing is to make sure that reading isn’t seen as a chore to your child. The best way to improve reading is to read every day!
Practice their spelling words at least 5 minutes every day. Do a practice test together, have an at-home spelling bee, just make it fun!
If your child is absent, please arrange for assignments to be picked up before 3:30, or have it sent home with another student.