Homework Policy

HOMEWORK POLICY 

Introductory Statement and Rationale: 

This policy was redrafted in the school year 2021-22 in light of experience and a survey to parents and on the basis that the existing policy needed review and updating. It reflects developments in education and changes in areas of the curriculum. The consultation process regarding this review involved teachers, pupils, parents, the ISM and Board of Management. The aim of this policy is to give clarity to the whole school community as to the purpose of homework and what is expected at each class level. 

Why is homework assigned? 

• It is vitally important continuation of the classroom learning experience. 
• It is revision and consolidation of what has been taught and learnt during the school day. 
• It focuses pupils’ attention on a number of specific tasks in a short period of time. 
• It fosters and nurtures good study habits in preparation for secondary, third-level and life long learning. 
• It raises pupils’ awareness that learning is not confined to the classroom. 
• It provides a link between home and school and ensures that education is a partnership between home and school. 

What are our Expectations of Homework? 

• Because of its positive effects on the child’s learning, we, as teachers, expect all homework to be fully completed. 
• All homework, whether it be oral, mental or written, should be completed to the highest standard for each individual pupil’s ability. 
• It is expected that parents will check thoroughly that all homework is completed and will sign the homework journal accordingly. 
• Each pupil is expected to produce his homework the following morning. 
• All written homework should be done in an appropriate copy. 
• Incomplete homework is expected to be completed the following evening. 

Teacher’s Responsibilities. 

Teachers have an obligation: - 

• To give homework on a regular basis.To ensure that all homework is corrected. 
• To give a reasonable amount of homework. 
• To always give homework in a positive context. 
• To inform parents if homework is not being done or is being done to a lower standard than the child’s ability. 
• To differentiate homework according to a child’s needs. 

Logistics of Homework/Senior Classes. 

• All homework is written in the child’s journal. 
• Homework is given four days of the week, Monday – Thursday or at the teacher’s discretion. 
• Gaeilge, English, Maths are given every evening, as well as other tasks of teacher’s choice. 
• A variety of work is given – oral, mental and written. 

Homework Policy. 

Homework which is prescribed is well within the capability of the attentive child since it is based on work already done. It enables parents to have some indication of their child’s progress. 

Suggested time guidelines. 

In practice, the time taken will depend on each child. If parents feel a child is taking an excessive amount of time, they should discuss this with the teacher. 

Infants10-15 mins4^th40-45 mins. 

1^st20-25 mins.5^th45 mins- 1 hour. 

2^nd25-30 mins.6^th45 mins- 1 hour 

3^rd40-45 mins. 

Differentiation 

In the case of children experiencing difficulties teachers will differentiate appropriately 

Parents Role. 

• Parents can help by making sure the child has a suitable time and place set aside for homework – with no distractions. 
• They can hear oral work etc. 
• If the child is having difficulties, parents should discuss this with the teacher.  
• The homework notebook can be used to write to the teacher – 2-way feedback – read daily. 
• Homework should always be checked. 
• It should be signed by a parent/guardian. 

Weekend homework is not given generally. 

A note will be sent home if homework is not signed on a regular basis. 

Implementation Date 

Reviewed January 2022.                                   

Ratified by the Board of Management  

Signature