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Homework @ Hodge Hill College

• There is a two pronged approach to homework for both KS3 and KS4 pupils.
• All pupils are expected to completed daily independent tasks, with KS3 pupils given a weekly timetable based on selected subjects & KS4 pupils provided with a weekly checklist based on all of their subjects.

The second prong is that all pupils complete activities related to their upcoming assessments in every subject as found on ‘Foldr’. Pupils log in using their individual details, and they will be able to find revision materials and activities related to their current study.  In order to help students make the most of the resources, there are also ‘how to use’ guides available which provide useful techniques and advice.

How to access Foldr

Benefits of Independent Study;

• Importance for pupil’s future;
• Preparing them for future education where they will have to carry out independent research.
• Providing opportunities for practice, preparation, and extension work.
• Assisting in the development of a range of intellectual skills.
• Assist in the development of generic skills by providing opportunities for individualised work.
• Fostering initiative and independence.
• Developing skills in using libraries and other learning resources.
• Training pupils in planning and organising time.
• Developing good habits and self-discipline.

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Key Stage 3

• All pupils should be completing daily at least one hour of additional independent study such as MathsWatch alongside their normal school day. 
• Pupils are expected to read at least 20 books across the whole year.  There is a list of 20 Must-Read books for each year available on the school website and all of these books are also available in our library.
• There are a variety of tasks that pupils can be doing and there is a weekly timetable (see below) recommending activities that should be done for Years 7-9.
• These independent activities should be done in collaboration with the assessment preparation which provides students with tasks and advice that will enable them to achieve their very best in their assessments for each subject.

 Key Stage 3 Weekly Activity Timetables

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Key Stage 4

• Pupils should be completing daily activities such as MathsWatch or reading as outlined in the revision checklist (see below) for Year 10 and 11 alongside their normal school day.
• They should also be revising for their option and core subjects using revision notes made in class, the revision guides as provided by the school and any other relevant material. 
• Key Stage 4 pupils should pay attention to the upcoming assessments as shown and be completing the provided tasks to enable them to achieve the very best in these assessments.

Key Stage 4 Weekly Checklist of Daily Activities

• MathsWatch/ SuperMathsWorld/ Khan Academy
• Science Revision Cards/ Kerboodle
• Option Subject*
• Independent Reading (Refer to 20 Must Read Books for your Year)
• Option Subject*

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Examples of KS4 How to use Guides

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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.

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