Homework

Homework is work that is set to be done outside the timetabled curriculum. It contains an element of independent study in that it is not usually directly supervised by a teacher. It is important in raising student achievement.

Rationale

Not all homework is done at home; in fact, for some students who find it hard to work at home, or for some tasks which may require resources (books, software, equipment) more readily available at school, it is necessary or desirable to carry out the task at school.

Homework enhances student learning, improves achievement and develops students’ study skills and as such is an integral part of the curriculum. It requires careful planning and integration into the scheme of work of each curriculum area. At Key Stage 3 the school does not have a prescribed homework timetable. This is to encourage subject areas to set homework when appropriate and of a length necessary to achieve high outcomes for a given topic or project. This is also to encourage high level independent learning for our students.

Aims

Homework enables students to:

  • To take ownership and responsibility for learning.
  • Encourage independence
  • Consolidate and extend work covered in class or prepare for new learning activities.
  • Access resources not available in the classroom.
  • Develop research skills.
  • Show progress and understanding.
  • To enhance their study skills e.g. planning, time management and self-discipline.
  • Engage parental cooperation and support.

Responsibilities

The role of the Class Teacher:

  1. Set homework according to the timetable above.
  2. Provide the stimulus.
  3. Give full and comprehensive instructions, ensuring these are written in student planners.
  4. Set deadlines for completed work and ensure that they are met.
  5. As appropriate, mark and return all homework promptly.
  6. Provide help and support.
  7. Give praise wherever possible, including the use of positives in Class Charts
  8. If necessary, give sanctions in line with school policy, including the use of negatives in class charts.

The role of the student:

  1. To listen to homework instructions in class.
  2. To copy down instructions for the task and deadline date into the student planner.
  3. To ensure that homework is completed and handed in to meet the deadline.
  4. To attempt all work to the best of their ability.
  5. To inform the class teacher of any difficulties.

The role of the Form Tutor:

  1. To include homework in student mentoring where appropriate.
  2. To see that homework is being set and recorded in the student planner.
  3. To check that the student planner is being signed by the parent/guardian.
  4. To note and respond to any comments written in planners by parents.
  5. To liaise with the class teacher and SSM as necessary if problems come to light.