Homework / Study Policy

Homework consists of written work, and material to be learned, reviewed and revised.

1. The Purpose of Homework:

• to reinforce classroom learning
• to give practice in written work, e.g. essays, mathematics,
• to check that the student applies correct work methods
• to develop independent research
• to develop self discipline
• to develop a student’s confidence in her ability to write and learn independently

2. Homework is an essential part of teaching and learning in Ard Scoil na nDéise.

3. It is important that parents show interest and actively support their daughters in doing their homework.

4. Parents and students should be aware that all second level students are expected to do homework in the evenings and at weekends and time should be set aside for this purpose.

5. Ard Scoil na nDéise feels strongly that parents should ensure that part-time work and other non-school activities do not interfere with their daughter’s satisfactory academic progress and examination success.  In the evening and at weekends students need time for study, adequate rest and relaxation.

6. Homework should be done in a quiet place that facilitates learning.  Distractions such as televisions, radios, mobile phones, etc should be switched off during study time.

7. Early in their first term in Ard Scoil na nDéise the Guidance Counsellor will give help to 1^st Years in how to approach study and present homework.   This homework support will continue during 1^st Year. 

8. In their first few weeks in 1^st year, students will usually have some time set aside at the end of class to start homework so that they are clear about what is required of them. 

9. Supervised study is usually available after school.  At the start of the school year students who are interested will be given a letter outlining arrangements and costs.

10. Guidelines for the amount of time spent on learning and written homework for each Year. 

    1st Years	1 hour per night
    2nd Years	2 hours per night
    3rd Years	3 hours per night
    5th Years	3 and 1/2 hours per night
    6th Years	3 and 1/2 hours to 4 hours per night

    Homework for 4^th Years can vary with project work and various assignments and homework. 

Teachers

• Teachers are requested to ensure that each student record homework in her Homework Journal. 

• Homework should be thoughtfully selected.  When giving homework, teachers should be mindful that the length of time to be spent at homework should be consistent and reasonable. 

• When setting dates for class tests teachers should try to avoid students having too many tests scheduled for the same day(s).

• Where collected for correction, homework should be returned to students promptly.

• In assigning homework teachers will be mindful of students’ varying abilities and needs. 

Parents

• Parents/guardians are encouraged to support and monitor their children in doing homework.

• Parents, especially of Junior students, are encouraged to check the list of homework assignments in the Student Journal daily and to ensure that it is done.

• Parents can support their daughter(s) to start revision for tests in good time.

• Occasionally a student is put on a “Homework Report” and encouraged to adopt a proper approach to homework.  When this happens parents/guardians are requested to sign the report when completed.

Students

• Students must use the Homework Journal to list the homework given.

• Students should do homework as soon as possible after it is set and avoid the last minute rush. 

• In presenting homework the emphasis should be on effort and quality.

• Efforts must be made to present homework neatly.

• Students must learn to meet deadlines.  Therefore it is very important that written homework and assignments be handed up on time.  Students who fail to hand in homework on time – unless there are exceptional circumstances – will not be entitled to have their work corrected. 

• Projects, Assignments and Portfolios to be submitted for State Examinations must be handed in at least one week prior to the deadline imposed by the State Examinations Commission.  Receipts will be issued by the teacher when work has been submitted.

• Students should start revision in good time and not leave the work to the last night before tests. 

• If a student has difficulties concerning homework she is encouraged to approach the teacher concerned to discuss the problem. 

• Where there is a continuous failure to attempt homework, parents will be informed at Parent-Teacher Meetings and in School Reports, and sanctions may be imposed. 

• Occasionally a student is put on a “Homework Report” and encouraged to adopt a proper approach to homework.  When this happens parents/guardians are requested to sign the report when completed.

This revised Homework Policy was adopted by the Board of Management at its meeting on 17^th April, 2007.

___________________

John O’Flynn, Chairman                                                   17^th April, 2007.

Board of Management.                            

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Ard Scoil na nDéise
Convent Road, Dungarvan
County Waterford, Ireland
Tel: (058) 41464
Fax: (058) 44801
E-mail: [email protected]