Homework is an out-of-classroom learning experience assigned by a teacher to enhance student learning. The purpose of homework is to ensure it is both effective in promoting high quality student learning and achievement and it nurtures a desire for students to keep learning.
In the TDSB Effective Homework:
Is curriculum based and meets the developmental and individual needs of the student through differentiation and modification;
Wherever possible, homework shall be assigned to be returned using blocks of time so that families can best support homework completion by balancing the time required to complete homework with extra-curricular activities scheduled outside of the school day and activities that support personal and family wellness;
- May be used to provide feedback to the student;
- Is designed to require no additional teaching outside of the classroom and is engaging and relevant to student learning;
- Has a direct link to the topic or skills that have been taught in class;
- Ensures that students understand what is expected of them before leaving school;
- Is intended to be a positive experience and not punitive;
- May be designed to involve parents/guardians in supporting their children’s learning but does not require them to teach concepts;
- Is communicated to parents in many ways including curriculum nights, parent-teacher conferences, student agendas, School Council meetings and newsletters.
Students are responsible for:
- Recording homework in their agenda, planner, chromebook, or smartphone;
- Ensuring that they clearly understand the homework criteria and timelines assigned;
- Asking for clarification or assistance from the teacher when homework tasks or the expectations are not clear or there is a time conflict due to homework in many different subjects;
- Managing time and materials, e.g. by bringing home necessary materials;
- Regularly completing assigned homework in a timely manner to the best of their ability.
Note: Completion of homework can contribute to improved student achievement, particularly in upper grades. Homework in grades 9 to 12 shall be clearly articulated and planned with an estimated completion time of two hours or less.
Homework is an essential part of each department’s curriculum. It may take many forms, depending on the subject and each individual’s needs. Students are responsible for all work assigned in each class. Homework is considered the joint responsibility of the school, the student and the parents/guardians. It is the school’s responsibility to provide appropriate, relevant homework. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the assigned work is understood, and to complete the work to the best of his/her/their ability. It is the parent(s)/guardian(s) responsibility to provide an environment conducive to independent study.
In each class, students should keep a record of all work assigned, including due dates, using their own calendar. Before leaving school, and before leaving home the next day, students should refer to this calendar to ensure that they take what they need with them and are ready for the upcoming day’s planned events. Most homework should be done alone, in an environment free from peers, computers, cell phones, TV, radio and other distractions. A homework schedule should be prepared to guarantee opportunity for this vital school component. Regular review is an essential part of homework. Students should review without prompting by teachers or parents/guardians.
TDSB’s Homework Policy
Homework is an important part of every child’s school experience. It is an opportunity to engage in learning at home and to support what is learned during the school day. Homework encourages good study habits at an early age that will help students to be successful. School staff, teachers, students and the family all play a key role in supporting homework. Positive and open school-home partnerships ensure students have the support they need to be successful.
The TDSB Homework Policy outlines how everyone involved works together and is written based on current teaching and learning practice, research, student census data and the results of consultation with parents, educators and the community. The policy balances the time required to complete homework with extra-curricular activities and other activities that support personal and family wellness.
Homework Tips and Resources
Parents/guardians are a key part of finding homework success. Some tips on what you can do to support your child include:
- Set a time for homework and provide a quiet space away from distractions
- Practice math, reading and writing daily and encourage your child to help you read and write everyday items such as recipes, newspapers or shopping lists
- Show interest and talk about what happened at school
- Praise and encourage your child to ask for help when needed
- Keep in touch with teachers and ask about completed homework