Homework Policy
HIMS Homework Policy 2011-12
It is the belief of Hamilton International Middle School that educational gains can be made by
students through well defined extended learning experiences directed by teachers and
supported by parents/guardians. Extended learning is defined as school related and assigned
work completed beyond the regular school day. It is the intent of Hamilton International Middle
School to assign relevant and meaningful homework assignments that extend and reinforce
classroom-learning objectives.
B. Time
Actual time required to complete homework will vary with each student’s study habits,
academic skills, and selected course load. Enrollment in certain programs may increase the
homework averages noted below. If your child is spending an inordinate amount of time on
homework, please contact your child’s teacher and counselor. Generally students in grade 7
and 8 will average approximately 1.5 – 2 hours of homework per night. Students in grade 6 will
average 1-1.5 hours per night. This equates to approximately 20 minutes per class, 40 minutes
for a block Language Arts/Social Studies class.
C. Late Work
Hamilton International Middle School believes homework is about student learning. Yet,
students are expected to turn in homework on-time. Students who turn in late assignments on
a consistent basis, based on teacher discretion, will receive a penalty. Students who turn in late
assignments may face the following penalties. Generally, there are two types of homework
assignments:
Type I: Assignments that are generally of a lower point value and are needed for full
participation in a lesson and/or assessment on the due date.
• (Penalty) Type 1: Assignments must be turned in on-time to receive full credit. Partial credit
may be assigned for any late assignment within this category. Work will be accepted until
the end of the unit of study or the end of the quarter, whichever comes first.
Type 2: Assignments that are generally of greater point value and have extended timelines for
completion (e.g. research reports, book reports, and major essays). Work on these projects
may exceed the approximate minutes per night described above. Individual teachers will
determine due dates.
D. Responsibilities
Staff:
• Assign relevant and meaningful homework that reinforces student learning.
• Give clear instructions making sure students understand the purpose of the assignment.
• Provide timely feedback on learning.
• Communicate and coordinate with other teachers to maintain a reasonable student
workload.
• Involve parents and contact them if a pattern of late work or incomplete homework
develops to collaboratively find solutions.
Students:
• Write down and keep track of assignments in the HIMS planner.
• Be sure all assignments are clear. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if necessary.
• Set aside a regular time for studying.
• Work on homework independently whenever possible so that it reflects student ability.
• Produce quality work; make sure assignments are done according to the given instructions
and completed on time.
• Communicate early on with the teacher if an extension is needed.
E. Absences
Students who miss schoolwork because of an excused absence shall, upon a timely request, be
given the opportunity to complete all assignments and tests that can be reasonably provided,
for full credit. As determined by the teacher, the assignments and tests can be reasonably
equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to the assignments and tests missed during the
absence. Teachers determine what reasonable deadlines are for accomplishing make-up work.
F. Extenuating Circumstances
Students and parents/guardians are expected to work with the teacher(s) to make a plan to
deal with extenuating circumstances. Examples of extenuating circumstances include things like
family emergencies, injuries, and extended illnesses.
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