It is generally accepted by school staff and the parent community that homework can contribute to the enhancement of children’s learning and promote direct parental involvement in children’s learning. It also helps students to develop study habits and time management skills, whilst promoting independence and self-discipline.
Teachers will advise homework arrangements and expectations early in the new school year. Homework will be set for completion each week. The amount and type of homework will vary depending on the year level and individual student needs. Be assured that teachers carefully consider the amount and content of tasks set for homework.
In Prep to Year 3 many activities at home or in play can assist children to develop literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills.
Homework tasks may include:
daily reading to, with, and by parents/carers or other family members
linking concepts with familiar activities such as shopping, preparation of food, local environment and family outings
conversations about what is happening at school
preparation for oral presentations
opportunities to write for meaningful purposes.
Guidelines for the amount of homework are as follows:
In the Prep year, generally students have limited set homework. In Years 1, 2 and 3, set homework could be up to but generally not more than 1 hour per week.
In Years 4 to 7 some homework can be completed daily or over a weekly or fortnightly period. Homework in Year 4 and Year 5 could be up to but generally not more than 2 to 3 hours per week.
Homework in Year 6 and Year 7 could be up to but generally not more than 3 to 4 hours per week.
Homework is your child’s responsibility. It is monitored and checked and a record kept for reference. Checking to see that it is complete shows your interest, and setting up home structures to encourage completion builds responsibility. Please sign your child’s homework the night prior to handing in to the teacher. If your child has difficulty with homework a short note to the class teacher would be beneficial.