MRPS Homework Policy

Rationale:

Homework benefits students by complementing classroom learning, fostering good study habits and providing an opportunity for students to be responsible for their own learning.

Aims:

Implementation:

The school’s homework policy will be made available to staff and parents
The school’s homework policy will be discussed at Student-led Conferences in Term One
Classroom teachers will set homework appropriate to each child’s skill level and age
Homework activities should be interesting, challenging and where appropriate, open-ended
Each set task must be purposeful, meaningful and relevant to the current classroom curriculum
All homework activities must be assessed with feedback and support provided by teachers

Early Years (Foundation – Year 2) – 5-10 minutes per night recommended

Homework will consist mainly of:

Reading to, with and by parents.
Nightly reading recorded in reading diaries.
Simple extension tasks associated with classroom activities, e.g. word work tasks
Gathering of additional information or materials, e.g. Show and Tell
From time to time, some additional tasks or information collecting activities may be set by the class teacher. The involvement and support of parents is vital at this stage. Reading to your child, storytelling or games e.g.: “I spy” help to develop vocabulary and consolidate understanding.

Middle Years (Years 3– 4) – 10-20 minutes per night recommended

Homework will consist mainly of:

Independent reading on a daily basis
Tasks such as continuation of classroom work, projects/assignments and research.
It is acceptable for teachers to assign unfinished classroom activities as additional homework tasks.

Senior Years (Years 5– 6) – 20-30 minutes per night recommended

Homework will consist mainly of:

Independent reading on a daily basis
Tasks such as continuation of classroom work, projects/assignments and research.
It is acceptable for teachers to assign unfinished classroom activities as additional homework tasks.

Role of the Teacher:

Share homework expectations with families at the beginning of each year
Provide clear expectations about the homework given
Set relevant and meaningful tasks that are related to classroom learning
Monitor student completion of their learning
Provide feedback to the students
Determine tasks, considering the student’s ability, home circumstances and commitments
Specialist teachers may liaise with the classroom teacher to have children finish specific tasks where appropriate
Encourage students to read in the holidays

Role of the Students:

Students need to make sure they take home everything they need
Students need to manage their time so there is no panic when homework is due
Students will be expected to complete their own homework and, if there is a difficulty, they need to advise the teacher

Role of Parents / Guardians:

Notify the teacher if there is any difficulty with the tasks set
Listen to students read and ask questions about understanding
Parents are asked to sign their child’s Reading Diary (F-2)
Parents are asked to sign students work (3-6) and Reading Diary in Years 4-6
Parents are invited to provide feedback to their child by writing a message on the homework
Set an environment and routine at home that fits their family
Monitor disruptions

Evaluation:

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