Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.

1. What do I do if I don't understand my homework?
2. What do I do with completed work?
3. What are we doing today?
4. What happens if I forget to do my homework?
5. Can I use a Homework Pass if I forget my homework?
6. What happens if I forget my planner at school?
7. Why do I have to get so many things signed?
8. Is fourth grade hard?

What do I do if I don't understand my homework?

I ask that you always TRY your homework.  If you are truly stuck on something,
you may skip that section or question and continue with the rest of the
assignment. Simply write NH (for needs help) on that section, and I will go
over it again with you.  Have a parent initial next to the NH to indicate that
you gave it your best shot.

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What do I do with completed work?

Completed work ALWAYS goes in my completed work tray unless I tell you
otherwise.  NEVER put completed work on my desk...you never know where it
might end up!  

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What are we doing today?

I will post the daily schedule on the whiteboard in the morning.  It may not
always be there right away, as we sometimes need to change the routine for
special activities, assemblies or projects.  Please don't ask me what we are
doing.  I will never leave you guessing, but it is easier and more efficient
when I can tell everyone at once.  That may mean that you have to wait a
couple minutes (and I know you will use those couple minutes wisely!), but I
don't want to answer the same question 16 different times!  Sometimes the
schedule needs to change after it has been posted.  I know this is difficult
for some people, but I try to do this as little as possible, and I will let
you know as soon as I know about changes in the schedule.

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What happens if I forget to do my homework?

Homework is an important part of learning.  It teaches responsibility,
organization, and prioritizing skills and tells me whether students understand
a skill or lesson I have taught when asked to do it independently.  You must
do your homework!!!  If you do not do your homework, you will need to change
your SHARE card, complete the homework for the next school day, and have a
parent sign it.  Of course, there are times we all forget something we are
supposed to do. Each trimester,
you will be given one Oops...I forgot Certificate.  When you use the
certificate, there will be no penalty for the work being late.  However, you
still need to do the work, due the next school day with the certificate signed
by a parent.   If you fail to turn
in homework often,  I will
call/meet with your parents and you will use recess time to make up missing work.

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Can I use a Homework Pass if I forget my homework?

Generally, yes.  If you have earned a Homework Pass, you may use it for ONE
missing assignment.  I will have you bring the pass home to get it initialed
by a parent and then bring it back to school.  There are several assignments
for which a Homework Pass cannot be used.  For example, pieces of long-term
projects or chapters of novels we are reading are not eligible for Homework
Passes.  

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What happens if I forget my planner at school?

ALWAYS check the website.   I make every attempt to update the
homework daily, immediately after school.  Sometimes, I do not get to it right
away.  I have meetings and other obligations after school.  
The last option is to call a friend.  Forgetting your planner is not an excuse
for missing homework!

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Why do I have to get so many things signed?

Your parents are important teachers...I teach you for one school year...your
parents teach you for much longer!  They are interested in what you do when
you are not with them, and it is important that they are aware of your
projects and progress.  Having things signed tells me that your parents have
seen your work and assignments and is one way I communicate with your parents
about your successes, struggles, progress, and assignments.

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Is fourth grade hard?

Yes...and no.  Any grade in school should be a learning and growing
experience.  You may grow and change in many ways...learning to get along
better with others, getting better in math/writing/language arts/reading,
getting extra practice with skills you already have, learning new ways to do
things, and discovering more about the world around you.  I know you will find
something that will challenge you this year!  If you work hard and pay
attention in class, I will help you work through your challenges.  

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