Homework

There is evidence that homework can lead to significant progress.  The Education Endowment Foundation states than, on average, good homework has a positive effect on student learning.  At Ryedale School we follow a set of principles to make homework as effective as possible.

Principles

• Consolidation – homework should get pupils to consolidate the work that they have done in lessons.
• Accessibility – homework, and the instructions for it, should be easily accessible. As well as telling students about the homework in class, we also write the instructions on Microsoft Teams.
• Accountability – students are rewarded for good homework and sanctioned if the homework is not completed.  In each subject, students get one chance to forget a piece of homework per term before they receive a detention
• Value – teachers communicate the value that homework has and design in-class tasks that demonstrate this value.
• Feedback – teachers give feedback on homework, but this could be verbal feedback.
• Support – students are able to access support such as homework clubs and the library.  Y7 and Y8 can attend homework club in B9.

Definition and Explanation of Consolidation

The most effective homework tasks are those that consolidate learning that has taken place in class. When tasks are given that do not consolidate prior work, then there will be little learning value and students are likely to struggle.

Examples of effective consolidation tasks:

· Exam question practice

· Low stakes testing (including online platforms)

· Mind mapping from memory

· Using flash cards

· Using an information source (knowledge organiser/video) to make notes

Helping Your Child Succeed with Homework

Why Homework Matters:

Consolidating learning at home will help students to confidently recall key knowledge on which they can build new information leading to more confidence in lessons and better academic outcomes.

Tips for Supporting Your Child with their Homework:

1. Create a Study Space:

• Ensure a quiet, well-lit area free from distractions such as phones and TV.
• Stock with necessary supplies (pens, paper, calculator).

2. Set a Routine:

• Establish a regular homework schedule that is organised around extra-curricular activities and other tasks.
• Break homework time down into manageable chunks with breaks in between.

3. Stay Informed:

• Use Teams and your planner to keep track of assignments and deadlines.

4. Encourage Independence:

• Allow your child to attempt tasks on their own before offering help.
• Praise their efforts and progress, not just results.

5. Guide towards Support:

• Were you given any information sheets, help sheets, example answers?
• Can we break the homework down into smaller tasks?