Year 1 homework help!

[catkind]

We didn't used to have homework at this age or for many more years, so not sure what we're supposed to make of this. We keep getting massively open-ended homeworks that seem simply way beyond DS.

This week's is to research a particular topic.

What do they expect him to do? Are they supposed to have research skills at 5? DS could possibly read a book if we find a suitably simple one on the right topic, but most of them aren't even reading that well. This particular topic involves 12 people (and very definitely says all of them, not just pick one). It would be torture trying to get DS to just copy down 12 names let alone anything else about them. Or are they expecting us to just do an internet search and show him some pictures?

Research could include talking to people and asking them what they know too. Eg "Mum, what does the Prime Minister do?"

That's a thought. I know 2 (but only the two DS already knows), DH knows another 3. Nearly half way!

Anyone else he could ask? On phone if nor in person.

Hmm, can't think of anyone. DH is a walking encyclopedia, he has more random knowledge than anyone else I know.

I have a Y1 and they have had open-ended homework, too. DH was chatting to a friend who is a teacher and, apparently, Ofsted approve of it but, tbh, even with a topic that engages them and a motivated/conscientious child, it is a nightmare the more so when, after handing one in, your child comes running out saying "Mummy, we didn'y HAVE to do it!": why set non-obligatory homework? After a general chat to set parameters, we helped them find books and they read the relevant bits, went online, watched relevant dvds (the two projects I am thinking of were Mini-Beasts and Frozen (ice not Disney!)). Having decided on a format, for which I provide craft material, the child then writes the booklet, decorates the poster, etc. ... We definitely don't do the work, but we help print suitable bits off, guide research or suggest ways forward, help with spelling, provide motivation ...

Glad I'm not the only one finding it hard. DS is not really that interested, certainly not conscientious, and finds writing and drawing really hard going. And they say they're easing them into homework gently. I dread to think what happens when it starts to get serious!