Study (Homework)

Research findings show that homework and study has a large and consistent effect on learning, especially when done regularly.  In Years 11 and 12 study can affect performance more than work in school.  Private time, working alone, is a very important addition to class time.

What does research state about homework?

• Regular homework affects school performance positively.
• Checking by both teachers and parents to see that homework is completed is very important to students.
• The most dominant distraction in the homework and study scene is television.
• Year 11 students face a dramatic increase in the homework and study load.
• Homework and study extends the school day.
• Regardless of their current achievement or their socio-economic level, all students benefit from doing homework and study.

What is home study?

Any reviewing of course work other than homework or specific teacher directed activity.  This may include writing study notes and summaries, mind maps, research, flowcharts, diagrams and other revision strategies.

Students are responsible for:

• Making sure they understand clearly what has to be done, when it is due in, and any other details – if in doubt, ask the teacher.
• Recording all homework accurately in their Homework Diary.
• Finding out what was missed during any absence, and catching up with that work.
• Organising their time so that each subject receives a fair share of the time available.
• Contacting their Year Coordinator if they believe they are receiving too much homework.

Parents need to accept responsibility for:

• Providing a suitable environment (a desk, adequate lighting and ventilation and if at all possible, a private, free-from-interruptions area).
• Discouraging homework and study of any type in the vicinity of the television.
• Regularly checking the child’s homework diary.
• Taking an interest in assignments, checking results, and noting teacher comments.
• Contacting the school should there be any queries regarding homework or study.
• Encouraging a homework and study routine and providing rewards – such as verbal praise or television time for the completion of the study.  Encouraging the child to keep to a homework routine even when there is no set homework  since there is always extra reading or learning which can be done.

How much homework should a student do?

The overall quantity of homework must take into consideration the need for after-school and weekend leisure time activities.  Generally the following is recommended:

• Year 8      About 1 hour per night (about 5 hours of homework and study spread throughout the week).
• Year 9      About 1.5 hours per night (7.5 hours per week)
• Year 10    About 2 hours per night (10 hours per week)
• Year 11    About 2.5 hours per night (12.5 hours per week)
• Year 12    About 3 hours per night (15 hours per week)

The exact amount of time will depend on the individual ability of the student, how the student is progressing and the difficulty level of the course.