KIRRAWEE HIGH SCHOOL HOMEWORK POLICY
(Based on Department of Education and Training Homework Policy)
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of homework, like school work, is learning. Homework is important for students of all ages, as it helps them build on what they have already learnt in the classroom, and prepares them for the next stage in their learning.
Homework is also valuable for teachers, as it helps them assess the progress of their students.
Research carried out in Australia and overseas shows a clear link between the time spent by students on out-of-class study and student achievement.
A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN HOME AND SCHOOL
Homework helps to bridge the gap between home and school. It should be seen by teachers, students, parents and care givers as a vital part of the home-school partnership which supports young people while they learn.
Responsibilities:
| The role of teachers is to: |
- ensure homework is related to the work being done at school
- set homework which allows students to demonstrate what they are capable of and which challenges them to progress
- give students sufficient time for the completion of tasks
- ensure students are aware of what is expected of them and how their work will be assessed
- help parents understand what homework is required and when it is due, through requesting them to sign off their child's work
- communicate with parents about areas of concern related to homework
- assess homework to determine achievements by students
- maintain student homework records
|
| The task of students is to: |
- complete homework within the given time frame
- maintain a homework record for their teachers and parents
- show their homework to their parents or guardians and ask them to sign it
|
| Parents and caregivers can help by: |
- supporting students in completing homework
- providing, if possible, a dedicated place and desk for homework and study
- assisting teachers to monitor homework, by signing off tasks according to the timeline indicated in the student's homework record or diary
- communicating with teachers about any concerns with homework or their child's approach to homework
|
HOMEWORK GUIDELINES
Secondary students are taught by a number of specialist subject teachers. Homework will be set by all teachers, but not necessarily every day. Teachers will liaise about the amount of homework to be given and when the work must be completed; this process is to be coordinated by a designated member of staff for each year. Sufficient time must be allowed for research activities and larger assignments, so that students can access resources.
Homework activities will vary according to the needs of the various subjects being studied. While most homework will consist of completing work begun in class and preparing for future lessons, students may also be given work to consolidate what they have learnt and to help them progress to the next stage of their learning.
As a guide, students in Years 7-8 should be expected to spend about six hours per week on homework; those in Years 9-10 about eight hours per week; those in Years 11-12 would be expected to do considerably more.
In addition to carrying out the homework set by teachers, secondary students are expected to spend time at home reviewing the work they have learnt in class.
STUDENT DIARIES
All students are issued with diaries by the school. These are to be brought with them to each lesson and teachers should find them readily accessible.
Students are expected to record in their diaries:
- records of all work set
- dates work is done
- any absences from school or class
- their results in tests, projects, assignments
From time to time, teachers may use the diaries to record a student's progress or advise parents about particular matters. In return, parents might write messages for teachers. |
