At St Joseph’s, teachers view homework as an important way to encourage and foster independent learning skills which are important for later schooling. In setting homework, the class teacher aims to:
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Encourage the development of independent study habits
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Give parents an opportunity to share in their child’s learning
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Refine the student’s skills of time management and organisation
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Develop the student’s sense of responsibility
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Practise skills and reinforce work learnt in class
It is important that students consolidate their classroom work by completing set homework. Homework consists of spelling, mathematical concepts and reading, as outlined in our school homework policy. Teachers need to hear from parents what is actually happening at home so that homework is not a source of conflict in the family. It is important that communication remains open and positive, and that teachers and parents work together in ensuring that the value of homework is maximised.
The parents’ role is to provide support and encouragement and above all, to take an interest in the work being done. This does not mean that they do the homework for their child.
Homework includes the following;
READING
Children are to read for a set period appropriate to their age every night. To develop student’s comprehension skills, parents are encouraged to:
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Retell
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Talk about character/s
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Predict what might happen next
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Discuss your favourite part of the story
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Discuss book features such as author, illustrator etc.
MATHEMATICAL FACTS & CONCEPTS
Mathematics homework is a consolidation of work covered in class. Tasks should be completed independently by the students. Misconceptions and difficulties are to be directed to the class teacher.
SPELLING
Spellings will be set and monitored by the class teacher. Students will be given strategies to help them practice their spelling at home.
