Tab 1

Homework @ Hodge Hill College

As a result of some of the outstanding work produced by pupils over the lockdown period and to build upon the independent learning skills gained by them during this time, we will be setting regular homework tasks to help with our COVID-19 recovery curriculum plan.

During the lockdown period, our YouTube channel received 100,000+ views alongside an average of 98% Class Charts logins. We believe that linking aspects of home learning to what the pupils will be learning in class over the next term and beyond will be beneficial for the pupils than just catching up on learning in school. The tasks set will be a consolidation of what the pupils are currently studying in school.

Through our Work Hard, Get Rewarded scheme, we will reward pupils at the end of the half-term for completing work to a good standard. Any incomplete work will result in homework completion detentions.

Click here or on the image above to launch Class Charts

Benefits of Independent Study

• Develops good learning habits necessary for further education
• Develops good learning habits, self-discipline and resilience
• Trains pupils in planning and organising their time
• Allows pupils to take responsibility for their own success
• Provides opportunities for practice
• Allows pupils to extend their knowledge and develop their interests

Daily Reading 

Pupils are expected to choose a library book and read it daily to their parents and themselves.

There is a list of Recommended Reads below and all of these books are also available in our library. Every book that is taken out by a student, returned on time and reviewed will result in 3 points being allocated to that form with regard to winning the KS3 challenge and corresponding reward event. 

Consistent reading at the pupils reading age and above brings several benefits such as vocabulary expansion, memory improvement, stronger analytical thinking skills and better writing skills which will be valuable for progression within all subjects. Alongside the practical gains for success in school, reading is also a great tool for stress reduction and can provide mental stimulation keeping the brain strong and healthy.

MathsWatch

Click here or on the image above to launch MathsWatch

MathsWatch is an online learning tool which allows students to further embed learning from the classroom. It is also the system upon which Team Maths sets homework assignments and through which students can revise. Each student has a unique login and username, which are used to login and access their account. Their homework assignments are listed there, and they can complete these over a number of sittings. If they are struggling with a question, by scrolling down they can use the helpful videos, or alternatively can attend the MathsWatch club on Tuesday after school, or see their teacher.

Use of MathsWatch is an excellent supplement to student learning, in addition to helping students to highlight areas of weakness. Progress and usage is rewarded through certificates, assembly announcements and enrichment badges.

Tab 2

Our Homework Plan

Tab 3

Tips for Parents

• Set up a homework-friendly area. Make sure kids have a well-lit place to complete homework. Keep supplies such as paper and pens within reach.
• Can you see what your child is doing? It is independent study however to monitor distractions you should be able to regularly check that your child is completing the work.
• Schedule a regular study time; Pupils will work better at different times so ensure you know when this is as children respond positively to routine.
• Help them plan; if your child has a particularly heavy homework evening encourage your child to break up the work into manageable chunks and take time for a 15 minute break every hour if possible.
• If providing your child with a snack; ensure that it’s ‘brain food’ such as water and fruit which keeps the brain hydrated and working to its maximum. Sugary snacks may provide a temporary ‘high’ but in the long term will also disrupt concentration and lower the capabilities of key skills such as forming new memories (and therefore work).
• Keep distractions to a minimum; Completing independent study without interruptions such as the TV, loud music or mobile phones will ensure that the time doing the work is better spent.
• Make sure kids do their own work; Pupils sometimes need to make mistakes to learn and this should be encouraged to build up the vital soft skill of resilience.
• Motivate and monitor; Ask your child about what they’re doing. Give encouragement, check completed tasks and be available for questions and comments.
• Praise their work and efforts; Achievement is the biggest motivator.