Homework
What is the purpose of homework?
At Westlands, we believe that the purpose of homework is to encourage the development of key skills and our RADAR values, including those of resilience, achievement and aspiration. Homework provides our students with further opportunities, beyond the school day, to retain and develop their knowledge and skills. Homework has a positive impact on average (+5 month progress), particularly with students in secondary school.
Why is homework important?
Homework provides opportunities for students to think, act and pursue their studies independently, while also improving their literacy and problem solving skills. Although still supported by their teacher and resources, it allows students to take ownership of and develop a personal responsibility for learning. Homework goes beyond just the task itself; it helps students take control of their workload and increase their time management skills.
Research further suggests that homework has the most positive impact on student learning when:
- It involves practice or rehearsal of subject matter already taught.
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It is done by the students, to the best of their ability.
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Students have a quiet, designated place at home to complete homework.
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Students develop a routine for completing homework.
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Teachers plan for homework as an integral part of student learning.
What online platforms are used?
Online platforms are an excellent way to set homework that is meaningful, linked to the curriculum and adapted to our students' needs. Please note, not every homework will be set on these platforms and students should log onto Google Classroom for their homework instructions.
We use a variety of homework platforms that suit each subject and best support our students' progress. Our most common include;
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Mathematics-Sparx Maths for KS3 and KS4 and Integral Maths for KS5.
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Science-Kay Science for KS4.
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History and Geography-Seneca.
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MFL-Language Nut.
Homework Timetable
How will homework be set?
Teachers will upload instructions, materials and reminders to Google Classroom, acting as an online digital homework diary for students. It is our students responsibility to go to their Google Classroom and open the post with homework instructions for that week. Their teacher will also share the information in lessons with them.
KS3 Homework Timetable
We use a two-week homework timetable at KS3. English, Mathematics and Science will be set weekly, with History, Geography, MFL, Reading and IT being set fortnightly. The night below is the time we suggest students complete their homework. This timetable acts as a way to manage their time effectively. Teachers will post homework to Google classroom and clearly state when it is due, with a minimum of one week to complete.
| Week | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
| 1 | English | Maths |
Reading History |
Science | MFL |
| 2 | English | Maths | Geography |
Science IT |
Art |
KS4 Homework Timetable
Subjects will set weekly homework. The night below is the time we suggest students complete their homework. This timetable acts as a way to manage their time effectively. Teachers will post homework to Google classroom and clearly state when it is due, with a minimum of one week to complete.
Year 10
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
| English | Maths | History or Geography | Science | Options A and B |
Year 11
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
| English | Maths | History or Geography | Science | Options A and B |
KS5 Homework Expectations
Sixth Form students are expected to have developed sufficient independent study and self-organisation skills to be able to manage their own workload. Three hours of homework per subject will be set per week, varying between exam practice, research and retrieval practice. This will be posted on Google Classroom.
How is feedback given on homework?
Feedback is given in a variety of ways.
Teachers will not annotate every piece of homework. Online platforms (like Seneca and Sparx Maths) provide feedback to students as they complete tasks. Teachers are able to use these to identify misconceptions and plan lessons accordingly. This means that homework is used to identify gaps in learning and support progress.
Where can I get support and help with homework?
A homework club runs twice a week. Internet access and chromebooks are provided for students, as well as a quiet place, supported by a member of staff.