HOMEWORK LEARNING TASKS

Introduction 

Homework is an essential and integral part of the learning process for students. It is a way of enhancing learning and allows parents to have regular input into their child’s education.
 
For any form of homework to be effective it is reliant upon consistent school practice combined with parental support.
 
Objectives
 
At Bitterne Park School the aim of Homework Learning Tasks are to:
  • Consolidate, support or extend what students are learning in the classroom.
  • Assist teachers in assessing students’ strengths, weaknesses and learning needs.
  • Prepare students for the rigour required to complete GCSE coursework and study.
  • Develop students skills and understanding of the world around us.
  • Stretch and challenge students.
  • Develop a greater sense of individual responsibility and independence in learning.
  • Promote positive dialogue and involvement between individual students, parents and teachers.
  • Celebrate the successes and hard work of students.
 
By working in partnership these objectives can be achieved and students will be prepared for the rigours of Key Stage 4 courses and beyond.
 
What are Homework Learning Tasks (HLTs)?
 
Homework Learning Tasks are project based Homeworks which require students to focus on what they are going to learn and how they will ‘show’ what they have learned. They will develop an independence to learning as well as give students a choice of how they complete tasks.
 
HLTs are set in all subjects each term (twice in the core subjects of English, Maths and Science) and are required to be completed over a three week period. All HLTs are published a term in advance and each one has a fixed start and end date. Students are responsible for completing HLTs and will be given support and advice by their subject teachers.
 
Additional Learning Tasks
 
Students may also be set Additional Learning Tasks by subject teachers. These will be written in the planner and 20-30 minutes in length. Additional Learning Tasks will allow for individual work to be set which is appropriate to the need of the student or group. These are short tasks and are compulsory.
 
How will HLTs be marked?
 
Each student will receive a grade for their HLT which they will record in their planner. These marks are then used as part of the overall assessment of a student’s individual progress. Parents can check these marks via the student’s planner and by attendance at the termly Individual Advice and Guidance Day.
 
HLT Marking Scale:
 
5          -           Outstanding
4          -           Very Good
3          -           Good
2          -           Satisfactory
1          -           Poor/Not completed
 
 
What happens if HLTs are not completed?
 
If a student does not complete a HLT they will be set a 45 minute detention by that subject. Parents will be informed of this via letter. If there are genuine reasons why a student cannot complete a HLT it is essential that the school is informed of this by letter, prior to the deadline date.
 
How can students gain support in completing HLTs?
 
Individual subject teachers will provide support for students. The school’s Learning Resource Centre is available until 4pm each evening. Here there is access to computers, books and a range of other resources to support students.
 
On Mondays and Thursdays there will be focussed support sessions appropriate to current HLTs that students are completing.

Further questions, help or support
 
If you have any specific questions or concerns about HLTs please contact your child’s Progress Leader or the appropriate Head of Subject. Alternatively, you can contact Mr Foster for Keystage 3 questions and Mrs Moles for Keystage 4 questions.

 
Homework Pack Downloads
 
Click here to go to the Homework Learning Task Download page 

If you have any problems with the Homework Learning Tasks please email:

hlthelp@bitterneparkschool.org.uk