Homework

Primary School

In Primary School, we believe there is value in providing homework but recognise that a ‘one size fits all’ policy is outdated.

The homework program is encouraged for Kindergarten to Year 5 and compulsory for Year 6. Teachers will still set appropriate tasks, and feedback will be provided. Parents electing not to complete the tasks are asked to ensure that discussions have occurred with staff. This may include a collaboration of the benefits of completing a reduced selection of what has been offered for learning consolidation. Reading every night for enjoyment is considered a priority for all our students to develop successful readers who love literature.

Secondary School

Homework and study are fundamental to learning, with homework assigned by teachers and study undertaken by students independently. Both require dedicated time, and their importance grows as students advance. Establishing good habits early is crucial.

Homework set by teachers may take different forms. There are seven main areas:

• Nightly Review: Each evening, students are expected to spend a few minutes reviewing what they learned in each subject that day. This could involve thinking over key points, jotting notes in a journal, or revisiting class materials. Regular review helps to reinforce learning and build long-term understanding.
• Short Homework Tasks: These tasks are set by teachers and should be recorded in the student’s diary. They are usually brief activities such as completing a summary, copying a diagram, or reading a section of the text. These exercises help consolidate daily learning and ensure smooth lesson progression.
• Extended Homework Tasks: Extended tasks require more time and may involve research, completing multiple exercises, or producing a longer piece of writing. Teachers will usually provide several days' notice, and students are encouraged to plan their time effectively. These tasks are designed to deepen subject knowledge and develop important research and organisational skills.
• Reading Assignments: Students may be assigned longer texts to read over a period of time, with specific sections expected to be completed by set dates. It is important that students allocate regular time to stay on track with these reading requirements.
• Major Assignments: Major assignments assess students’ ability to manage deadlines, research from multiple sources, and present their work clearly and professionally. Ample time is provided, and students are encouraged to start early. Extensions will only be granted under exceptional circumstances.
• Enrichment Activities: At times, teachers may recommend additional activities to broaden students’ understanding, such as reading beyond the curriculum, attending cultural events, or watching educational programs. While not always compulsory, these activities play a valuable role in enriching student learning.
• Flipped Classroom Activities: In some subjects, students may be assigned teacher-prepared video lessons to watch at home. These lessons introduce new concepts, which are then explored further in the next class.

Notes on Revision

Regular revision is essential for consolidating learning and practising subject-specific skills. Students are encouraged to follow a cyclic process of review and note-making that involves:

• Reading through the material covered each day for each subject (as appropriate);
• Making summary notes of that material, completing problems and/or revising related skills;
• Developing a revision folder in which their summaries, tests, revision exercises and related materials for each subject are kept for future reference; and
• Setting aside time each week to review material from the previous month. Students should use their summaries and refer back to their class notes and texts as needed. This helps to keep skills and knowledge current and increases the depth of their knowledge.

It is important that students take responsibility for their own learning. Establishing consistent homework habits and effective revision techniques will support academic success. The skills developed through regular revision will also serve as a strong foundation for future studies.

Support

Faculty Coordinators and class teachers are available to help students develop effective study methods and build the skills needed for academic success.

Additional subject-specific and general homework support is available for Secondary students. You can find out more at opportunities.scas.nsw.edu.au.

Assignment Deadlines

Good planning is key to managing assignments effectively. Students are encouraged to start assignments as soon as they are set to avoid a last-minute rush. It’s important to understand the purpose of the task and the marking criteria from the outset.

Ideally, students should aim to finish assignments a few days before the deadline. This allows time to proofread and seek feedback from teachers if needed.