Homework
1.0 DEFINITIONS
Homework is an out-of-class learning experience assigned by a teacher to enhance student learning. Homework should be reviewed by teachers so that they know where students are now and how to better direct them towards their learning goals.
There are four types of commonly assigned homework, each having a different intended outcome as shown below.
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Type
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Definition
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Intended Outcome
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Application
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Completion
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Any work assigned during the school day not completed in class
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Helps students keep up to date with the classroom program
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The classroom program should be differentiated if a student has completion homework on a regular basis
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Practice
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Any work that reviews and reinforces skills and concepts taught in class
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Helps students practice newly acquired skills to develop fluency
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To be effective, practice homework requires students to already be able to independently perform the skills required.
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Preparation
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Any work that prepares students for upcoming lessons or classes
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Encourages students to acquire background information or to bring their prior knowledge and experiences to upcoming units of study
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Extension
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Any work that explores and refines learning in new contexts or integrates and expands on classroom learning
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Encourages students to problem solve, think creatively and think critically
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To be effective, extension homework does not require a student to learn curriculum content independently. Instead, students deepen understanding and relate learning to the real world.
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2.0 TIMING, SCHEDULING AND QUANTITY OF HOMEWORK
The amount of homework assigned to students should be different from elementary, to middle school to high school and that the amount of time a student spends on assigned homework depends on such factors as: the student’s needs, learning ability, subject, school schedule, proximity to tests, examinations and assigned homework due dates. Time spent on homework should be balanced with the importance of personal and family wellness and the wide array of family obligations experienced in our society today.
2.1 Kindergarten to Grade 6
There is a strong connection between reading to or with elementary children every day in English or in one’s first language and student achievement. As a result, homework assigned in the early grades shall more often take the form of reading, playing a variety of games, having discussions and interactive activities such as building and cooking with the family. In the K to 6 grades, effective homework may begin to take the form of independent work. In both cases, homework assigned for completion, practice, preparation or extension should be clearly articulated and differentiated to reflect the unique needs of the child.
2.2 Grades 7 to 8
Completion of homework for middle school-aged students can contribute to improved student achievement. Homework assignments for completion, practice, preparation or extension for students in Grades 7 and 8 shall be clearly articulated and carefully planned, in partnership among core and rotary teachers. Estimated completion time should be one hour or less.
3.0 GENERAL
3.1 No homework shall be assigned on scheduled holidays as outlined in the school year calendar or on days of significance.
3.2 Wherever possible, homework assignments shall be assigned to be returned using blocks of time so that families can best support homework completion by balancing the time required to complete homework with extra curricular activities scheduled outside the school day and activities that support personal and family wellness.
Parents who have concerns with homework expectations for their child shall be encouraged to contact their child’s teacher or the school principal to discuss the situation.
4.0 HOMEWORK DURING EXTENDED ABSENCES
Teachers shall not be expected to provide detailed classroom work and homework assignments for students who are away for extended periods of time as a result of family – or parent – initiated absences. For absences due to extended illness, parents may contact the school principal to discuss available options.
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