Homework Policy

Purpose

To provide clear guidelines for the setting and completion of homework for students at North Perth Primary School.

Rationale

Research indicates that purposeful out-of-class learning, which enhances the educational program, contributes to student achievement and independence. Further, homework provides an opportunity for parental understanding of their child’s current skill level and involvement in their child’s learning. In this way, homework is intended to foster a positive view of and enthusiasm for learning. It is also intended to facilitate discussion, where appropriate, between teachers and parents regarding progress of the child.

This policy has been written in consultation with the teachers and parents and is therefore supported by them. Implementation relies on a partnership between teachers and parents as well as a shared understanding of the intent of this policy.

Guidelines for Setting and Completion of Homework

General Guidelines

Homework need not be pen and paper work, nor does it need to be given daily. When setting homework the following principles should be considered. Homework should

Be family friendly, including family involvement and discussion
Cater to the individual needs of the child
Encourage open ended investigation that has a defined purpose
Encourage the development of life skills and sense of responsibility

Homework should not

Pose a significant burden on the family
Be used as a form of punishment for non-completion of classroom tasks

Homework Tasks

Homework tasks in all year levels are similar however the time allocation will vary to accommodate the skill level of the children. Tasks are

Home reading is to be completed daily to encourage independence and enjoyment of reading. Methods for effectively assisting with reading will be provided by the class teacher at the beginning of the year. A parent signer card may be used to keep a record of books read in junior years.
Other small assignments related directly to the class program/theme may be added, and may include finishing off work. From year 4 onward it may also include learning spelling and multiplication tables. This is to be communicated clearly via the parent communication folder or diary, which is to be returned to school daily.

Where homework is given the approximate commitment will be:

Kindy and Pre-primary - Reading to/with your child is encouraged, the child or parent may undertake reading. Reading time approximately 10 – 15 minutes.
Year 1 to Year 3 - Children are encouraged to read for approximately is 10 – 15 minutes.
Year 4 and 5 - Homework commitment is approximately 15 - 20 minutes daily.
Years 6-7 - The homework commitment on average will be approximately 20 - 30 minutes daily.

Parent Requests

Requests for extra homework or less homework are to be discussed with the class teacher. The teacher is under no obligation to set extra homework, but advice will be given to the requesting parent. Parents may be directed to commercially available texts if they desire more homework for their child.

Some parents may wish to define activities for their children that are in keeping with the purpose of current classroom tasks/activities. This may be discussed with the classroom teacher if parents wish to do so.