Homework

Independent Learning is work that is completed outside of the timetabled curriculum with the expectation of independent study. When done well, independent learning enhances students’ learning of key constructs and component knowledge, improves attainment and develops students’ study skills and as such is an integral part of the school curriculum. Independent learning requires careful planning, linked to the knowledge organiser and integrated into the scheme of work of each curriculum area to support a mastery approach to learning. The quality of Independent Learning tasks and their relevance to main class teaching is more important than the amount set. 

Aims: 
Independent learning enables students to develop habits of working independently and learn knowledge in knowledge organisers. 

It will enable students to: 

• consolidate and extend work covered in class or prepare for new learning activities. 
• show progress and understanding of key constructs and component knowledge. 
• prepare for assessments and end of year examinations.
•  access resources not available in the classroom. 
• develop research skills. 
• have an opportunity for independent and creative work. 
• enhance their study skills e.g. planning, time management and self-discipline. 
• take ownership and responsibility for their learning. 
• engage parental co-operation and support.
• create channels for home school dialogue. 

Expectations:
The following expectations exist for teachers, all students, and parents:

Each teacher will:  

• set meaningful independent learning on Go4Schools linked to key constructs and key knowledge in knowledge organisers so that students understand the purpose of the tasks and why they are important.  
• clearly explain the independent tasks during lessons so students are fully aware of work set and how to succeed. 
• link independent learning to knowledge organisers by the use of the Independent Learning Knowledge task templates, twice per half term for appropriate year groups as per whole school policy.
• consider the capabilities of the class: independent learning that students can’t do without help is not appropriate, so tasks may need adaptation. 
• where possible provide students with choice to create ownership. 
  assign varied tasks that will engage and interest students. 
  reinforce and test completed independent learning by frequent and regular low stakes tests such as Do now tasks. 
• reward completed independent learning by awarding a praise point on Go for Independent Learning. 

Each student will:  

• know how to access and complete independent learning tasks. 
• complete independent learning tasks on time and to the best of their ability. 
• develop regular and appropriate study habits which include independent practice.
•  understand the relevance and value of independent learning. 

Each parent will:  

• know how to access their child’s/children’s independent learning tasks. 
• encourage their child to complete independent learning tasks and refer to the knowledge organiser. 
•  understand the relevance and value of independent learning. 

Independent Learning may take a variety of forms, including: 

• note-taking
• extended written tasks 
• reading 
• learning and recording knowledge – for example: facts, vocabulary, spellings
•  completing classwork
•  research 
• drawing or design work 
• preparing for discussions or presentations
•  on-line learning
•  answering questions
•  completing worksheets 
• revising for assessments and exams 
• past paper exam questions 

Expectations: How much and by whom? 

Guidelines for year group independent learning workload is listed below:

Year 7 & 8 – 1 hour per evening (3 x 20 minutes)

Year 9 – 1.5 hours per evening (2 x 45 minutes)

Year 10 & 11 – 2 hours per evening (2 x 1 hour)

Completion of Independent Learning 
Aim: 
There is a praise culture around students completing their independent learning: independent learning will be celebrated. 
Students will be made explicitly aware of the benefits of completing their independent learning tasks. Students are expected to complete their tasks for all subjects. It is an important aspect of their whole school experience and completion is likely to result in students building good independent learning habits, making more rapid progress in subjects and succeeding in the wider school curriculum. When students complete their independent learning tasks, teachers will acknowledge their effort and work with a positive praise point on Go ‘Independent Learning’. 

 
Non Completion of Independent Learning 
Students will be made explicitly aware of the impact of not completing their independent learning tasks. Students are expected to complete their Independent Learning tasks for all subjects. It is an important aspect of their learning and non-completion is likely to result in students falling behind in progress and achievement. There is not a detention system for students failing to complete their independent learning.