General assumptions
Homework will be consistent with the philosophy of the Homework Policy, School Plans and classroom practices. Homework is a positive supplement to the school learning process not a new learning experience, i.e. work should be of a revision nature allowing children to gain confidence by demonstrating their ability to succeed. Homework may be given up to four nights per week.
It is important parents contact and discuss with the class teacher any problems, which may arise with the children’s homework in order to avoid conflict and stress for the child, parent or teacher.
Parents and teachers need to be aware of ‘stress’ that a child may develop due to extra curriculum practices, e.g. music lessons, dance lessons, sport.
Responsibilities of the teacher
- Teachers will mark or respond to the student work when homework is requested or provided.
- The teacher response will be in a timely manner.
- Home work provided will be at a level appropriate for the student.
Responsibilities of parents
- Provide a suitable physical environment, eg. desk, suitable lighting and ventilation away from distractions (eg. television, ipods with earphones).
- Encourage a homework routine/timetable and provide rewards – verbal praise etc.
- Regular checking of child’s homework.
- Generally taking an interest in all set homework.
- Contact the classroom teacher with any queries or problems regarding homework.
Years 1 and 2 (up to 15 minutes)
Nightly reading
Orally to an adult/older child. This may include some word study.
Unfinished work
The children may be required to complete unfinished work at home or other simple activities set by the teacher.
Year 3 (up to 20 minutes)
Nightly reading
- Orally to an adult/older child. 3-5 pages with variation due to different types of supplementary materials.
- Depends on layout of book.
- Consolidation of tables and spelling.
Unfinished work
If children have not completed work after a reasonable time then they will finish it as homework.
Special interests
- Children with special needs may be required to complete home activities with parent co-operation.
- Parental requests for homework are handled on an individual basis.
Years 4 and 5 (up to 30 minutes)
Nightly reading
- It is expected that all children be encouraged to read at home.
- Consolidation of tables and spelling.
Unfinished work
From time to time work not completed at school will be done at home.
Years 6 and 7 (up to 40 minutes)
Nightly reading
It is expected that all children be encouraged to read at home. Encourage children to read or browse through a newspaper or informational publications regularly or watch a television news program daily, particularly SBS for world coverage.
- Learn spelling where applicable at teacher’s discretion.
- Completion of unfinished work.
- Consolidation of tables and spelling.
- Research projects as issued.
Note: Public libraries, universities, Government agencies, and web sites previewed by parents are all useful sources of extra curricular activity for students.
Internet reference
- Help Your Child Succeed at School by Andrew Fuller, www.andrewfuller.com.au