School Council recently initiated a review of the Homework Policy to ascertain whether the effectiveness of homework at North Perth Primary School could be improved. The review included consultation with parents and staff through online surveys, analysis of the data obtained, and consideration of John Hattie’s ‘Influences and Effect Sizes Related to Student Achievement’ research. Importantly, this research demonstrates, with the exception of daily reading, that homework has a low effect on student achievement at a primary school level. The new policy aims to ensure that homework is targeted, structured and relevant to classroom teaching and learning programs. In line with the research, the overall amount of homework has been reduced. Hattie also suggests that homework is more effective when it is supervised so we encourage that homework is overseen when possible.
For all the details either CLICK HERE or read the new policy below.
North Perth Primary School Homework Policy
Purpose
To provide clear homework guidelines for students, staff and parents at North Perth Primary School.
Rationale
Research shows that homework has minimal impact on the academic achievement of primary aged students. However, research also indicates the value of being a proficient reader. Therefore, North Perth Primary School encourages all students to read at home.
Homework is intended to foster a positive view of and enthusiasm for learning. All homework will be targeted, structured and supervised and relate directly to the teaching and learning programs of the class.
This policy has been written in consultation with teachers and parents and endorsed by the School Council. Implementation relies on a partnership between teachers and parents as well as a shared understanding of the intent of this policy.
General Guidelines
Homework is optional. When setting homework the following principles will be considered.
Homework should:
- endeavour to be family friendly, including family involvement and discussion
- encourage the development of organisational skills and sense of responsibility
- be age appropriate
- be presented in the form of a Homework Grid consistent within year levels
Homework should not:
- pose a significant burden on the family
- be used as a form of punishment for non-completion of classroom tasks
Students working on Individual Education Plans may be an exception to this policy.
Homework Tasks
Kindy and Pre primary
We encourage that all students be read to and/or read aloud on a daily basis.
Year 1-2
We encourage that all students read aloud to an adult and be read to on a daily basis. A Literacy and/or Numeracy task taking no longer than 5 minutes per night.
Year 3-4
We encourage that all students read aloud to an adult and be read to on a daily basis. A Literacy and/or Numeracy task taking no longer than 10 minutes per night in addition to reading.
Year 5-6
We encourage that all students read aloud to an adult and be read to on a daily basis. A Literacy and/or Numeracy task taking no longer than 15 minutes per night in addition to reading.
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 could be given to the requesting parent. Parents may be directed to other resources if they desire more homework for their child.