Additionally, homework provides training for students in planning and organising time and develops a range of skills in identifying and using information resources. Furthermore, homework establishes habits of study, concentration and self-discipline, and allows parents and caregivers to see the progress of their child and also provides challenges and stimulus to gifted and talented students.
At Georges River College – Hurstville Boys’ Campus, we have consulted with our staff, students, parents and caregivers, in developing some homework guidelines relevant to the needs of our students in accordance with DET policies and practices.
In Years 7 to 10, students are given homework which is proportionate to the allocated periods for each of their respective subjects. For instance, in some subjects, like English, Mathematics and Science students have 5 periods per week. As a result, students will end up receiving homework almost everyday, which they will usually spend between 20 minutes to 60 minutes to complete and this may vary according to the level of each individual student.
In summary, homework in Years 7 to 10 comes in various forms, such as:
- completing the work that students began in class.
- an extension on work completed in class.
- revision.
- preparatory tasks for the next lesson.
- reading for enjoyment.
- recording of observations.
- ongoing tasks, such as completing a learning log, folio or journal.
- assignments or projects that require completion over an extended period of time. This includes research and / or creating something.
- watching a television report or video.
- gathering materials from newspapers and magazines.
- interviewing or asking for opinions.