Home Work Policy

Homework is an extension and a supplement of class work that has to be completed and/or learned by learners outside the classroom. There are four types of homework: practice, preparation, extension, and completion.

Practice assignments reinforce newly acquired skills. Practice also includes bonds and tables, phonics, spelling, and reading.

Preparation assignments help learners get ready for activities that will occur in the classroom.

Extension assignments are frequently long-term, large-scale projects and assignments that parallel classwork. Projects are done in class so that the teacher can teach essential skills. Learners do their own work so that the marks reflect their ability.

Completion assignments. Learners need to complete essential incomplete classwork and make necessary corrections.

PURPOSE OF HOMEWORK

Assigning homework serves various educational needs. It serves as an intellectual discipline, establishes study habits, eases time constraints on the amount of curricular material that can be covered in class, and supplements and reinforces work done in school. The purpose of homework is thus that learners should get the opportunity to teach further, through independent effort and as his/her responsibility, that which has already been taught or practiced under staff supervision. In addition, homework fosters a learner's initiative, independence, and responsibility and brings the home and school closer together. It also allows for differentiated teaching and learning and aids concentration.

OBJECTIVES

The following are the most important objectives of homework:

• ● We aim to provide learners with the chance to complete their schoolwork autonomously and according to their own circumstances.
• ● To provide an opportunity for independent acquiring of knowledge and mastery of skills.
• ● To provide additional practice, the amount of time learners are actively engaged in learning should be increased.
• ● To allow teachers an opportunity to monitor learners' progress and diagnose learning problems.
• ● To increase learners' independence, personal responsibility, and individual accountability.
• ● To facilitate more rapid movement through the curriculum.
• ● To increase communications between parents and the school

THE TEACHER AND HOMEWORK

• ● Giving homework on a regular basis will increase achievement and improve attitudes toward learning.
• ● Homework assignments must supplement the classwork in a sensible manner and be based on work that the learner understands. It should arouse interest and stimulate thought.
• ● Homework must be routinely controlled, collected, and/or assessed. It should be reviewed during class time.
• ● Homework assignments should be specific so that there can be no misunderstanding.
• ● An opportunity should be given for learners to record the required homework in the Homework Diary.
• ● Teachers must check diaries daily to ensure learners are writing down homework and that parents are signing daily.
• ● Teachers should also check for correspondence from parents.

GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS

• ● Where possible, a quiet and suitable place should be set aside at home where your child can do their homework undisturbed.
• ● Provide your child with all the necessary tools (e.g., stationery, access to libraries, etc.) to complete homework assignments.
• ● Help your child with research, but the written work should be their own. Allow them to write or type the information in their own words and draw their own pictures.
• ● Check your child's homework diary, which will indicate the required homework.
• ● Sign the diary once you have checked that all required homework has been completed.
• ● It must be emphasized that the purpose of homework is defeated if parents do the homework or provide too much help.
• ● If parents do the work for their children, it teaches them that they 'can't.' Your child's work must be assessed based on their ability, not yours.
• ● Monitor television viewing and leisure time, and establish a specific homework time and bedtime.
• ● If there is no assigned written homework, encourage your child to revise and read aloud to you regularly, as well as independently, before going to sleep. Do your children see you reading?
• ● Bonds and tables, phonics, or spelling also need to be practiced.
• ● Communicate any concerns or problems via the Homework Diary, so that teachers can intervene promptly.
• ● A positive work and homework ethic should be communicated at home.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LEARNERS

• ● Write down homework in the MPHS Homework Diary. If you lose your diary, buy another one immediately. Your diary helps you stay organized and on track.
• ● Be sure you understand the assignments. Listen carefully to instructions. Follow written instructions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if needed.
• ● Set aside a regular time for studying.
• ● Find a quiet, well-lit study area.
• ● Work on homework by yourself whenever possible, so that it reflects your ability.
• ● Produce quality work that you are proud to hand in. Write neatly, as presentation is important.
• ● Ensure assignments are done according to the given instructions and are completed on time.
• ● Make sure you have everything needed for future lessons so you are prepared to work.
• ● Ensure that your parents check your homework and thereafter sign your Homework Diary
• ● If you have been absent, consult your timetable and find out what you missed. Ensure you catch up on all lessons and hand in the work for assessment.
• ● If you focus and concentrate on your work in the classroom, you will complete your classwork and have less written homework.