I believe that prior to middle school, homework should be approximately 10 minutes x grade level.  

Fifth grade students should have about 50 minutes of homework nightly.  

Language Arts:

The primary reading homework is to read 30 minutes daily and record this on the monthly reading log.  If other obligations preclude reading for a night, the time can be made up at another time within the month.

Students will begin book reports, written and oral, beginning second quarter.

Finally, students will get a spelling list at the beginning of the week, and are expected to practice and work with the words throughout the week, with an assessment taking place at the end of the week.

Math:

Currently math homework largely consists of pages to be completed in the student’s Singapore Math workbook or textbook. Additional problems may be presented to the student at the end of class.  Math homework is due the next school day unless otherwise noted.  The frequency of homework will reflect progress in class, with homework to focus on practicing and reviewing skills already taught.   

 Science:

Homework for science will consist of completion of a project related to the FOSS kits utilized in class.  Projects may be done on an individual basis or as part of a group of 2 or 3 students from my homeroom.  Students will be provided with a list of ideas of appropriate projects to help those unable to generate their own ideas related to the science topic.  Due dates will be very reasonable and presentation of the project will be made to the class.

Social Studies:

Homework for social studies will consist of completion of a project related to the content presented in class.  Projects may be done on an individual basis or as part of a group of 2 or 3 students from my homeroom.  Students will be provided with a list of ideas of appropriate projects to help those unable to generate their own ideas related to the unit topic.  Due dates will be very reasonable and presentation of the project will be made to the class or posted in the hall.