NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE

By omar at 17:27:05, 04/09/2023

Classroom Tips and

Homework Policy

Omar Khidhir
Director of Education
Gasha Education Company
 DRAFT
Gasha International School Classroom Tips and Homework Policy

Every new school year heralds a fresh beginning filled with boundless aspirations, soaring
expectations, and a medley of challenges. This holds true for both educators who are
embarking on their first teaching journey and those seasoned professionals who have
weathered numerous academic cycles. At Gasha Education Company, we understand the
significance of this pivotal period in the academic calendar, and that's why we've crafted a
special resource known as "Classroom Tips and Homework Policy" to assist educators in
commencing the year on a strong note and preparing for the upcoming challenges and
triumphs.
"Classroom Tips and Homework Policy" is meticulously designed with you, the dedicated
educator, at its core. These resources are not mere theoretical constructs; they are distilled
from the crucible of real classroom experiences. We've drawn inspiration and wisdom from
the frontlines of education, ensuring that the guidance and policies we offer are grounded in
practicality and relevance.
Gasha Education Company takes immense pride in its role as a leader in providing educators
with the essential resources they require to not only navigate the complexities of modern
education but to truly excel in their roles. Our commitment to your success is unwavering, and
"Classroom Tips and Homework Policy" is just one of the many ways we strive to support and
empower educators like you. As you embark on this new academic journey, remember that
Gasha Education Company is here to serve as your partner in achieving educational
excellence.

At Gasha Education Company, we recognize the importance of a balanced and effective

approach to homework that supports the holistic development of our students. Our
homework policy is designed to align with international standards while considering the age
and developmental needs of students from Year 1 to Year 10.

Integration with Curriculum: Homework is considered an integral part of the curriculum and
is planned and prepared alongside Schemes of Work. It aligns with the learning objectives and
content being covered in class.
Progressive Development: Effective homework practices are established early in a student's
education and develop progressively across different Key Stages. Homework assignments
become more complex and tailored to the students' abilities as they progress.
Effective Setting and Management: Homework assignments are set and managed effectively.
Teachers communicate clear instructions and expectations for completing homework,
including deadlines and resources required.
Contribution to Attainment: Homework is designed to contribute to the challenge of raising
student attainment. It reinforces and extends classroom learning, allowing students to
practice and apply what they've learned independently.
Differentiation: Homework tasks are differentiated when necessary to meet the needs of all
students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). However,
some tasks (e.g., reading, art, drama) may not require differentiation.
Parental Support: The support of parents/guardians is considered essential in monitoring
homework. Parents are encouraged to be involved in their children's homework, providing
assistance and encouragement.
Marking and Feedback: Homework is marked and assessed in accordance with the school's
Marking and Feedback Policy. Constructive feedback is provided to students, helping them
understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
Quality Monitoring: The quality of homework is monitored and reviewed at regular intervals.
Consultation with students and parents may be part of this process. The results of these
reviews are often reflected on academic criteria within student reports.
Accountability for Incomplete or Missing Homework: Incomplete or missing homework is
closely monitored by the student's subject teacher and tutor. Sanctions or consequences for
not completing homework are imposed in accordance with the school's Behaviour Policy. This
ensures that students understand the importance of responsibility and meeting deadlines.
Incorporating these features into homework practices helps ensure that homework is a
meaningful and productive part of a student's educational experience, fostering both learning
and responsibility.

Benefits for Students

Over the course of the last four decades, extensive research into the practice of homework
has consistently revealed a multitude of advantages for students. Engaging in schoolwork
outside of the classroom has proven to be beneficial in terms of academic achievements while
simultaneously nurturing critical life skills. Here are some of the key findings:
Academic Gains: Research consistently demonstrates that students who complete homework
assignments tend to experience tangible gains in their skills, abilities, and test scores.
Homework extends the learning process beyond the confines of the classroom, providing
additional practice and reinforcement of the material taught in school.
Development of Positive Attitude: Homework encourages the development of a positive
attitude toward schoolwork. When students actively participate in their education outside of
school hours, they often become more motivated and engaged learners.
Enhanced Home-School Connection: Homework fosters greater cohesion between the school
and home environments. Parents and guardians become more involved in their child's
education as they assist with homework assignments, creating a stronger partnership
between educators and families.
Improved Self-Concept: Engaging in homework assignments can contribute to an improved
self-concept in terms of a student's ability as a learner. As students tackle challenging tasks
independently, they gain confidence in their academic capabilities.
Fostering Good Habits: Completing homework helps students develop essential life skills such
as independence, responsibility, organizational skills, and time management. These skills
extend beyond the classroom and serve students well in various aspects of their lives.
Expanding the Notion of Learning: Homework instills the understanding that learning
opportunities are not limited to school and classroom environments alone. By practicing
schoolwork at home, students come to realize that learning can occur anywhere and at any
time, encouraging a lifelong love of learning.

Designing Effective Homework

To achieve a positive impact on student learning, homework assignments must be well-

designed and carefully constructed. Some specific research findings include:
Homework is most effective when it covers material already taught. However, giving an
assignment on material that was taught the same day is not as effective as an assignment
given to review and reinforce skills learned previously.
▪ Homework is most effective when it is used to reinforce skills learned in previous weeks
or months.
▪ Homework is less effective if it is used to teach complex skills.

Qualities of Effective Assignments

When educators design homework tasks, they should take into account the following
characteristics. Effective homework assignments:
1. Offer clear and concise instructions to students.
2. Enable students to achieve success when working on them.
3. Do not extend for an excessive duration.
4. Can be accomplished within a flexible time frame.
5. Utilize readily available information and materials.
6. Serve to reinforce and provide practice for previously taught skills.
7. Differ from unfinished classroom assignments.
8. Captivate students' interest and encourage further exploration and study.
9. Spark creativity and imagination when applying acquired skills.
10. Foster collaborative work among students.
11. Promote discussions both at home and in the classroom.
Importance of Feedback
Significance of Providing Feedback Supplying students with specific and timely feedback plays
a crucial role in the learning process. It is imperative to furnish students with information
concerning their strengths and weaknesses, their areas of knowledge, and the quality of their
performance. Studies have demonstrated that students who receive personalized and
relevant feedback regarding their homework mistakes perform better than those who merely
receive scores on their assignments. Researchers have identified four essential questions that
teachers should consider when assessing a student's homework:
1. Does an error exist?
2. What is the likely cause of the error?
3. How can I guide the student to prevent this error in the future?
4. What noteworthy achievements or strengths did the student exhibit that deserve
recognition?

Classroom Management and Considerations for Instruction

It is crucial for students to comprehend the expectations regarding homework and
acknowledge their responsibility for completing assignments. Achieving This depends on the
effective implementation of classroom management and instructional strategies. When
assigning homework, educators should:
1. Ensure students understand the purpose behind the assignment.
2. Diversify assignments by including both short-term and long-term tasks.
3. Offer a range of assignments with varying levels of accountability.
4. Convey that homework contributes to students' overall grades.
5. Clearly define and communicate the expected quality standards.
6. Occasionally grant students the opportunity to create their own assignments.
7. Occasionally provide choices in assignment selection.

Furthermore, teachers should avoid making assumptions:

▪ Assuming that students have retained knowledge or skills taught in previous lessons.
▪ Assuming that external resources are readily available outside the classroom.
Assigning Dos and Don’ts
DOs
1. When planning homework, ensure that the topics and skills:
▪ Are within students' familiarity.
▪ Have been introduced during class.
▪ Are captivating and pose a challenge.
▪ Can be feasibly completed within an appropriate timeframe based on grade and age.
▪ Instil a sense of progress in students.
▪ Serve to review and reinforce previously taught skills.
2. Foster a general understanding that learning occurs both within and outside the school and
classroom settings, encouraging the development of a strong work ethic for at-home
assignments.
3. Prioritize advanced planning to allocate ample class time for providing explicit homework
instructions and addressing any questions or concerns.
4. Guarantee that all students have access to the necessary resources for completing their
homework assignments, and be sure to provide written instructions.
5. Dedicate a specific location within the classroom for homework-related activities, including
assignment distribution and collection.
6. Conduct thorough reviews of all submitted homework assignments after students have
turned them in.
7. Encourage parents to actively support their children's homework efforts.
8. Consider appropriate time frames for homework assignments, taking into account the
lesson's objectives. Some assignments may extend over multiple days, and in such cases,
provide clear and detailed instructions. Also, be mindful of the possibility that other teachers
may assign homework with similar time frames.
9. Establish, teach, and communicate homework policies and procedures to ensure students
and parents have a clear understanding of them. This includes specifying due dates,
submission locations, makeup procedures for missed assignments, and any connections
between homework and class grades, if applicable.
Don'ts
Avoid assigning homework that:
▪ Is unfamiliar, uninteresting, or impossible to complete.
▪ Simply consists of unfinished in-class work.
▪ Demands highly complex skills or sets unrealistic timeframes.
▪ Becomes repetitive and redundant.
▪ Occupy students' time aimlessly.
▪ Act as a mere "pen-and-paper babysitter."
▪ Serve as a punishment for not completing in-class assignments.
Avoid last-minute organization and assignment of homework, as this can lead to issuing tasks
that are either pointless or unmanageable, along with unclear instructions.
Avoid making assumptions about students' home environments, such as assuming all homes
have equal resources, parents possess identical skills and abilities to support their children's
learning.
Avoid the risk of completed homework assignments getting lost in students' desks, lockers, or
within the classroom.
Avoid collecting homework if you do not intend to review, check, or grade it.
Avoid assigning homework that is excessively difficult and unfamiliar to students, as this might
tempt parents to either complete the work for their children, accuse them of inattentiveness
in class, or accuse them of failure.
Avoid assigning long-term projects without regular teacher monitoring and scheduled
progress reports from students.
Avoid maintaining vague or subjective homework policies that result in unfair and inexplicable
consequences for some students but not others, such as lowering a student's grade or
revoking classroom privileges, or that consume class learning time with discipline and
reprimands related to incomplete homework assignments.

Reception:
▪ At this early stage, the focus is on fostering a love for reading and learning.
▪ Encouraging children to take home books for shared reading with parents is an
excellent way to promote literacy from a young age.
▪ It's important to keep homework time minimal to maintain engagement and prevent
overwhelm.

Year 1:
▪ In Year 1, the emphasis is still on foundational skills, but there is a gradual increase in
the time spent on homework.
▪ Daily counting in steps of 2, 5, and 10 is crucial for building early math skills.
▪ The introduction of a weekly science homework assignment shows the beginning of a
broader curriculum.

Year 2:
▪ Year 2 continues to prioritize reading and phonics.
▪ The introduction of multiplication practice is aligned with early math development.
▪ English and science homework assignments become a regular part of the students'
routine, building their responsibilities.
Year 3:
▪ Year 3 marks a progression with an increased focus on comprehension, vocabulary,
and more multiplication tables.
▪ The 3, 4, and 8 times tables are introduced, expanding math skills.
▪ The continuation of English and science homework ensures students are developing
essential subject-specific knowledge.

Year 4:
▪ In Year 4, the emphasis on reading deepens, fostering better text understanding.
▪ A broader range of multiplication tables is introduced, further strengthening math
abilities.
▪ The addition of 30-minute math homework signifies a more significant workload,
preparing students for future challenges.

Year 5:
▪ Year 5 maintains the focus on reading and spelling while adding the challenge of
multiplication and division facts up to 12x12.
▪ Longer homework times in math, English, and science signal the increasing academic
expectations.

Year 6:
▪ Year 6 introduces critical thinking skills through reading and places more emphasis on
refining spelling abilities.
▪ Multiplication and division facts are practiced extensively.
▪ Homework times significantly increase, preparing students for the transition to
secondary school.

Year 7 & 8:
▪ The transition to secondary school often comes with an adjustment to a more
structured and demanding workload.
▪ Students in Year 7 & 8 are expected to complete a minimum of 30 minutes of
homework for English, Maths, Citizenship, and Science.
▪ This prepares them for the increasing academic rigor in the coming years.

Year 9 & 10:

▪ As students enter the final years of secondary education, they are required to dedicate
more time to homework.
▪ The minimum 60-minute homework for subjects like English, Maths, and the Sciences
reflects the advanced level of study and preparation for external exams.
▪ The inclusion of subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, and ICT in
homework assignments aligns with the broader curriculum.
This structured approach to homework reflects a thoughtful progression that aligns with
students' developmental stages and prepares them for the challenges they will face in later
years of education. It also emphasizes the importance of regular reading, foundational math
skills, and subject-specific knowledge acquisition, all of which are critical for a well-rounded
education.

Year 11 AS Level:
Nurturing In-Depth Understanding and Preparation for Higher Studies
As students transition to AS Level in Year 11, their academic journey takes on a new dimension.
With a paramount focus on delving deeper into subjects and gearing up for advanced studies,
students are tasked with dedicating significant time to self-study at home. This extended study
period is not only vital for academic development but also paves the way for future success.
The guidelines below articulate the homework expectations for Year 11 AS Level students in
the subjects of Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics:
Time Commitment: In addition to regular school hours, students are required to commit a
minimum of 4 to 6 hours daily to reviewing and enriching their understanding of the subjects
at home.

Mathematics:
Independent Study:
Comprehensive Review: Thoroughly revisit class notes and textbooks, ensuring a firm grasp of
concepts.
Problem Practice: Engage with a diverse array of mathematical problems from multiple
sources.
Advanced Problem Solving: Tackle complex exercises and puzzles that challenge problem-
solving skills.
Beyond the Curriculum: Undertake independent exploration of mathematical concepts that
extend beyond the syllabus.
Collaborative Learning with Teachers:
Virtual Office Hours: Attend virtual sessions to address queries, seek clarification, and receive
additional guidance from teachers.
Group Problem-Solving: Collaborate with peers and teachers to work through intricate
problems as a team.
Topic Deep Dives: Engage in detailed discussions with teachers to grasp the nuances of specific
mathematical concepts.
Solution Feedback: Submit your solutions for practice problems to teachers for constructive
feedback and improvement suggestions.
Biology:
Independent Study:
Comprehensive Review: Immerse yourself in revisiting class lectures and study materials to
fortify understanding.
Complex Analysis: Delve into in-depth analysis of intricate biological processes and their
underlying principles.
Reference Materials: Engage with recommended reference books and scientific articles to
broaden knowledge.
Hands-On Learning: Conduct self-guided experiments and observations to consolidate
practical insights.
Collaborative Learning with Teachers:
Research Discourse: Participate in discussions with biology teachers about recent scientific
research and its implications.
Case Study Exploration: Analyze real-world case studies to apply biological concepts and share
findings with teachers.
Data Interpretation: Collaborate with teachers to interpret and analyze data obtained from
virtual labs.
Critical Thinking Dialogues: Engage in conversations that foster critical thinking about ethical
quandaries and current biological issues.

Chemistry:
Independent Study:
In-Depth Study: Dedicate time to immerse yourself in the study of chemical theories,
reactions, and mechanisms.
Problem Mastery: Confront complex chemical problems and equations, refining problem-
solving skills.
Virtual Experiments: Conduct virtual or home-based chemistry experiments to practically
apply theoretical knowledge.
Real-World Applications: Explore the real-world relevance of chemistry across various
industries and contexts.
Collaborative Learning with Teachers:
Experiment Review: Collaborate with teachers to analyze data from virtual or home-based
experiments and discuss their implications.
Modeling Workshops: Engage in workshops that involve constructing physical models or visual
representations of chemical structures.
Data Deciphering: Engage in discussions with teachers to unravel the meaning behind
experimental data and observations.
Applied Chemistry Insights: Explore the practical applications of chemistry within industries
and real-life scenarios through discussions with teachers.

Physics:
Independent Study:
Thorough Revision: Engage in meticulous revision of fundamental physics principles and
theories.
Advanced Problem Solving: Challenge yourself with intricate physics problems spanning
mechanics, electricity, magnetism, and beyond.
Virtual Simulations: Experiment with virtual simulations and home-based experiments to
grasp key physics concepts.
Cutting-Edge Research: Investigate current breakthroughs in the realm of physics through
independent research.
Collaborative Learning with Teachers:
Virtual Lab Analysis: Collaborate with teachers to dissect data from virtual experiments and
explore their implications.
Conceptual Dialogues: Engage in conversations delving into the conceptual foundations of
physics theories and their historical evolution.
Deeper Explorations: Journey into advanced physics topics beyond the syllabus in
collaboration with teachers.
Future Prospects: Discuss present breakthroughs, research trends, and the future trajectory
of physics with teachers.

Whether studying independently or in tandem with teachers, proactive engagement is

paramount. Students are encouraged to approach these study methods with inquisitiveness,
critical thinking, and an eagerness to learn. The equilibrium between self-driven exploration
and interaction with subject teachers creates a holistic and enriching learning expedition that
transcends the boundaries of the classroom.

Study Environment: Constructing a focused and interruption-free study milieu at home is

essential. This setting should facilitate prolonged periods of concentration and learning.
Necessary resources, such as textbooks, reference materials, and online tools, should be
within easy reach.
Balancing Commitments: While dedicating considerable time to home-based studies, Year 11
students are advised to strike a balance. Participating in physical activities, pursuing personal
interests, and enjoying quality moments with loved ones contribute to overall well-being.

Teacher Support: Students are encouraged to seek clarification on challenging concepts during
regular school hours. Teachers stand ready to offer guidance, address questions, and provide
supplementary resources for enhanced understanding.

Note: Approaching homework with a growth mindset is crucial for Year 11 AS Level students.
They should view challenges as avenues for learning and growth. Consistency, self-discipline,
and a genuine passion for the subjects will fuel academic accomplishment and pave the way
for a seamless transition to A Level study and beyond.

In conclusion, this comprehensive homework policy is designed to support our students'

academic growth and foster a love for learning from the earliest stages of their education
through to their final years of secondary school. We believe that a balanced approach,
gradually increasing the complexity and time spent on homework, prepares our students for
the challenges they will encounter in their educational journey. By emphasizing foundational
skills, critical thinking, and subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip our students with the
tools they need for success. We encourage open communication between teachers, students,
and parents to ensure that homework remains a constructive and manageable aspect of our
students' educational experience. Together, we can help our students reach their full potential
and develop into well-rounded individuals ready to face the future with confidence.