Homework is set at Shorncliffe State School so students have opportunities to consolidate, revise or apply classroom learning. Homework tasks develop students' independence as a learner through activities such as investigating, researching, writing, designing and making. Homework fosters patterns of behaviour that encourage lifelong learning beyond the classroom. Home tasks strengthen home school connections and involve family in student learning.
Homework criteria is set for each year level and communicated to parents at the beginning of each year. Homework tasks are devised to be completed daily or over a one-week period, with the exception of home inquiry projects.
At Shorncliffe State School, we aim to provide homework that:
- is clearly related to class work
- is appropriate to particular years of schooling
- is varied and differentiated to individual learning needs
- consolidates, revises and/or applies classroom learning
- develops independence through extension activities
- assists students to prepare for upcoming classroom learning
- is monitored by the teacher
At Shorncliffe State School it is important that we have a balanced approach to homework to ensure sufficient time for family, recreation, community and cultural activities. Our students are not disadvantaged by not being able to access resources such as computers and the internet.
Recommended times and tasks:
Basic numeracy and literacy skills are the key areas covered as part of our homework program. In addition, students may receive other tasks to support their learning in other subject areas as determined by the classroom teacher. A gradual increase in time spent on homework has been adopted to create more demand and challenge as students move through the year levels. Reading is an essential component of homework for all students. For our younger students, it is important that parents get involved by reading books daily with time.
- Prep - 10mins generally from term 2, as introducted by the teacher.
Daily reading (being read to and reading home readers when provided) SMART spelling phonics activities, common/sight word practice
Years 1 - 6 - years 1 - 2, 10 - 15mins (1 hour max per week), years 3 - 4, 20 - 25mins (2 hours max per week), years 5 - 6, 30 mins (3 hours max per week)
Daily reading, sight word practice (Year 1), SMART spelling home activities, Mathletics/Number facts/Maths activities, home inquiry projects.
Responsibilities
Teachers:
- Follow the guidelines set out in the Shorncliffe State School Homework policy.
- Communicate homework expectations at the beginning of each year.
- Check homework regularly and provide timely and useful feedback.
- Explicitly teach strategies to develop organisational and time management skills.
- Give consideration to student's other academic and personal development activities (school based or other) when setting homework.
- Discuss with parents and caregivers any developing concerns about their child's homework and suggest strategies to assist.
Students: - Be aware of their class homework expectations.
- Accept responsibility for the completion of homework tasks within set time frames.
- Follow up on feedback given by teachers.
- Seek assistance when difficulties arise.
- Organise their time to manage homework and outside of school commitments.
Parents/Caregivers: - Be aware of the homework requirements for your child's class.
- Read to and with your child.
- Provide support to help your child complete homework tasks.
- Encourage them to organise their time, take responsibility for their learning.
- Help your child to balance their commitments and use their time wisely.
- Contact the teacher to discuss any concerns regarding homework in a timely manner.
The success and
benefits of homework depends upon good communication between the school and
home. Please contact your child’s
teacher with any concerns you have about homework.