Homework is given on average once per week. This work is essential to the student's learning, skill building, and ability to keep up with the class and expectations. The assignments given are to deepen the students understanding, improve reading comprehension, develop independent study skills, and to practice what we do and learn in class. This independent work is designed to support in-class work, and therefore is an integral part of the curriculum. When students do not complete the homework, they are missing out on very important aspects of the class.