Scoil Bhríde Homework Policy
- 1. Why give homework?
v To re-enforce what the child learns during the day
v To provide a link between teacher and parent
v To develop a child’s concentration skills and develop a work ethic
v To further develop independent work habits
Homework is meant to be achievable by a child i.e. it provides an opportunity to practise work already done.
It is normally prepared by the teacher, however in senior classes, some homework is designed to challenge children’s ability and provide opportunities for creativity.
2. What is expected?
Children are expected to do their homework to the best of their ability – no more no less.
- 3. How often is homework given?
v Homework is given on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays but not on Fridays.
There are two exceptions:
v If homework has been neglected during the week
v In Senior Classes some work may not be finished during the week and may need to be finished at weekends
Sometimes, at the discretion of the teacher or principal children are given “homework off” as a treat or as an acknowledgement of a special occasion. Homework may be given if a child has not completed homework properly, i.e. has not made a good effort or has presented untidy work.
- 4. What is the content of homework?
v Ideally homework will contain a balance between reading tasks, learning tasks and written tasks.
v This balance is not always possible and can vary considerably from day to day. However, it should be noted that homework time devoted to reading and learning is as important as written work.
v Homework will regularly contain reading, spellings, tables, written work, pieces to be memorised, drawing/colouring, collecting information/items and finishing work stated in class.
v Children often feel that reading and memorisation work is not real homework. Parents can play an important role in listening to reading and items to be learned ensuring this work is done well.
5. How much homework?
The following are guidelines for time spent at homework. Different children will complete the same homework in different lengths of time. Time spent will vary from day to day and also from the beginning to the end of the school year. It is important to remember that it is the quality and not the quantity of homework that matters.
v The following are general guidelines only.
Jun. & Sen. Infants: 15-20 minutes (after introductory period)
Rang 1 & 11 30-35 minutes
Rang 111 & 1V 40-45 minutes
Rang V 45-60 minutes
Rang V1 1 hour
If the children cannot finish the homework in this time it may be advisable to inform the teacher.
6. Standard of Work
Children are expected to do their best at all times. A high standard of neatness and penmanship is
expected.
7. Incomplete Homework
If for any reason the child does not do homework a note of explanation is expected from the parent(s)
/guardian
8. Role of Parents/Guardians
v Set suitable times for homework.
v Turn off T.V.
v Make sure child has the proper physical conditions for doing homework – a quiet time, clear table,
helpful books such as a dictionary.
v Observe the work.
v Check over completed work.
v Prompt and guide if help is necessary.
v If you have given a reasonable amount of help and your child still cannot complete the task, you can
help best by writing a note telling of the child’s difficulty.
v Encourage and give credit for effort.
Review and Monitoring
This policy will be monitored and reviewed by the Board of Management on an annual basis or when the need arises.
Policy adopted by the BOM on 06.09.2010
Sr. Maryjohn Chairperson, B.O.M