Frequently Asked Questions
Fourth grade comes with an increase in responsibilities that include bringing all necessary materials needed to complete the school day, keeping track of belongings, and completing homework on time. This includes having all materials when rotating to their switch classroom. Below, you will see some frequently asked questions from parents and other helpful tips on how to support your child in having the most successful year possible.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS HOMEWORK?
Each day, students are required to copy their homework assignments into their planners. They are given time in class to do this and it is considered one of their responsibilities. I try to spot check that students have written down homework, but will not check each student's planner every day. All work is expected to be returned the next day, unless the students are told otherwise. A signature in their planner signifies you as a parent have checked their folder, homework, and planner for completion.
WHEN IS HOMEWORK DUE?
All homework assignments are due at the beginning of the day; any assignments turned in after this time are considered late. Most assignments are due the day after they are assigned unless students were told differently. Students will not be allowed to call home for homework that they forgot.
WHAT IF MY CHILD FORGETS HOMEWORK?
Students who have missing work will have their planner signed, and will be responsible for completing the assignment. In most cases, students will be able to turn the assignment in the next day, but in some cases they may have to come in during lunch or recess to complete the work.
MY CHILD IS STRUGGLING IN A PARTICULAR AREA, WHAT CAN I DO?
All students have access to our online math program Education Galaxy. This program adjusts to each student's individual strengths and areas of growth, so it will target areas that your child finds more challenging. It is an excellent resource! On my web page, you will find links to interactive sites that students may use to practice certain skills. If you feel your child still needs additional help, please let me know and I can provide some additional practice they can work on at home. I will also reteach some skills students struggle with in class through individual or small group instruction. Tutoring is usually offered to students demonstrating the greatest need beginning in mid-late February. This is not an exact science as I can only take on a certain number of students to effectively address all their needs and tutoring is done on a volunteer basis on my own time.
HOW CAN I HELP REINFORCE CONCEPTS TAUGHT AT SCHOOL?
-Practice basic multiplication facts at home!!! I often suggest that parents use time driving in the car to get this done so it does not take any extra time out of your day. Students need to be fluent with their basic facts to be successful with more complex multiplication and word problems in 4th grade-this is very important!
-Go over homework each night with your child to ensure that he/she is grasping current skills.
-Talk to your child about what he/she feels is difficult and provide additional opportunities to practice at home.
-Use analog clocks and watches to help tell time and ask your child how much time has passed since a certain event took place.
-Use appropriate vocabulary, such as parallel lines, congruent, and obtuse angles, and have your child find real-world examples of these around them.
-Allow your child to count money out to a store clerk and have them check to make sure the right amount of change was given.
-Cook/bake with your child and allow them to measure the ingredients necessary for the recipe.
-Go over homework each night with your child to ensure that he/she is grasping current skills.
-Talk to your child about what he/she feels is difficult and provide additional opportunities to practice at home.
-Use analog clocks and watches to help tell time and ask your child how much time has passed since a certain event took place.
-Use appropriate vocabulary, such as parallel lines, congruent, and obtuse angles, and have your child find real-world examples of these around them.
-Allow your child to count money out to a store clerk and have them check to make sure the right amount of change was given.
-Cook/bake with your child and allow them to measure the ingredients necessary for the recipe.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT YOU?
Using the REMIND app or email is the best way to contact me ([email protected]). I am usually able to check my email throughout the day and will respond as quickly as possible. I have a conference period from 2:00 pm-2:30 pm each day; please message me on REMIND or email me if you would like to schedule a conference during this time.
