Homework Policy
General Statement
In Oatlands College we are committed to ensuring that all students benefit fully from the education provided by regular homework. This helps to consolidate the work done in the classroom, enables students to work on their own initiative and fosters self-reliance.
Homework Procedures
Homework is an integral part of the learning experience. It is given on a daily basis to reinforce the learning that has taken place in the classroom and to build on previous classwork. A range of homework is given and corrected on a regular basis. This includes written exercises, oral learning and project work. Subject teachers will give detailed homework requirements specific to their subject cognisant of Whole School Planning and Subject Department guidelines.
1. The class teacher checks written homework. This encourages students and helps determine progress.
2. Homework may be examined orally.
3. Teachers keep a record of completed written homework assignments.
4. Longer written exercises may be given at the weekend.
5. Good homework is acknowledged through the School Journal.
6. If a student fails to produce a homework assignment this is communicated to the parents/ guardians through use of School Journal/ letter/Phone call.
7. Tests may be used to check learning homework.
8. Homework is set by teachers before the end of each class. Students are given sufficient time to note the homework in their journals.
9. Students are expected to:
• Record in their Journal at the end of each class all homework given – written and oral.
• Revise the work covered in the class.
• Present homework well – dated and written in their copies in a neat and clear fashion.
• Present homework on time.
10. Homework should be undertaken in a quiet calm atmosphere, which will be similar to the circumstances under which the students will subsequently have to take examinations. It is also best undertaken in a carefully organised and tidy environment where the required material is readily to hand. Study is best done in blocks of time with a period of relaxation between sessions.
11. There are no precise rules for the amount of time students should spend on homework – it depends on the age of the student, the number of subjects to be studied and the level. The following general outline may be helpful:
First Year Two hours per night
Second Year Two hours per night
Third Year Three hours per night
Transition Year Minimum – one hour for core subjects
Extra for project work
Senior Cycle A minimum of four hours per night
12. Parents/ Guardians can help their sons in the following ways:
• By providing a quiet comfortable environment for homework.
• By setting aside a regular time and place for homework.
• By establishing a routine in so far as it is possible.
• By checking that homework is being done.
• By checking the journal on a daily basis.