Homework Policy

Definition of Homework

Homework is the out-of class tasks that a student is assigned as an extension of classroom work. The three main types of homework are (non-exhaustive):

A. Practice exercises– providing students with the opportunities to review, revise and reinforce newly acquired skills, including:

• consolidation exercise e.g. math tables, concept maps
• mastery exercises e.g. writing
• revision exercises e.g. revisiting concepts and skills taught in class

B. Preparatory homework – providing opportunities for students to gain background information so that they are better prepared for future lessons, including:

• background reading e.g. reading on the topic to be covered, researching on a  topic
• preparatory reading e.g. English text for class discussion / debate

C. Extension assignments– encouraging students to pursue knowledge individually, including:

• creation task e.g. an art work
• investigation tasks e.g. science
• research tasks e.g. using a computer to find material on the Internet
• reflection task e.g. reflection and discussion on blogs and forums

 Purpose of Homework

• Allows for practising, extending and consolidating work done in class
• Provide feedback on students’ learning
• Provides students opportunities for self-management
• Establishes habits of study and self-discipline
• Provides parents with insights into what is being taught in the classroom and the progress of their children

Homework Guidelines

 The total estimated time for homework completion per class are stated below:

• P1/2 – about 1 hour a day
• P3/4 – about 1.5 hours a day
• P5/6 – about 2 hours a day

Expectations of Students

Students expected to:

• be aware of the importance of homework
• record the homework assigned in their Student Diary
• complete homework within the given time frame
• seek assistance from teachers and parents when difficulties arise
• organize their time to ensure that sufficient time is given to quality homework within set deadlines

Parent Support

 Parents can assist by:

• ensuring that there is time set aside for homework
• encouraging and supporting students to complete homework
• checking their children’s Student Diary for homework that has been assigned to their children
• monitoring homework by signing completed work
• communicating with teachers any concerns about the nature of homework and their children’s approach to the homework