Homework

Read it:

· Reading novels

· Reading key extracts of texts/literature

· Reading articles

‘Language and literacy provide us with the building blocks not just for academic success, but for fulfilling careers and rewarding lives’. (Education Endowment Foundation) Reading helps to improve vocabulary, communication, grammar and writing skills

Spell it:

· Spelling and vocabulary tests

· Exploration of the etymology of key words

Spelling tasks help students to be able to spell key words within their subjects correctly. The more practice that students have at spellings, the better chance they have at remembering them. Being able to spell words correctly is something that will help students all through their life

Apply it:

· Extended written responses to a question

· Producing a piece of work which will demonstrate understanding of a topic or concept

These tasks might require students to demonstrate how well they have understood and learnt key things from their lessons. They might be extended written responses to a question which require students to apply their knowledge and understanding.

Retrieve it

· Knowledge Organisers

· Quizzes

· Self-testing

· Flashcards

· Graphic Organisers

· Learning grids

These are tasks which prompt students to recall/remember key information. The more we encourage students to retrieve information, the more chance we have of it ‘sticking’ and remaining in the long- term memory for students to retrieve with ease.

Practise it:

· Practice of skills

· Rehearsal of lines

· Practice of dance moves

· Music practice for performance pieces

· Use of subject specific platforms such as ‘Maths Watch’

Repeatedly practising something eventually helps students to remember and to master something to an excellent standard.

Pod it:

· GCSEPod- An extensive study support platform which provides students with access to additional content including film clips, assessment materials linked to specific subjects and topics

GCSEPod is an online resource which contains lots of mini film pods linked to most subjects and key topics. Teachers can use them to test their students, enhance revision and monitor their engagement. Students can self-test, build knowledge and monitor their progress.

Revise it:

· Self-testing

· Essay plans

· Practice essays

· Summarisation

· Mind maps

· Dual coding of notes

Active revision is an important skill that students need to master. Active revision and practice of exam tasks can reduce stress and anxiety associated with exams while allowing our students to achieve their full potential.

Bespoke it

· Tasks set by subject areas that are specific to the nature of that subject.

Occasionally staff may need to set a homework that does not comply with one of our ‘its’. In these instances you may see homework that is set using ‘Bespoke it’

Flip it

· Pre-reading information provided by teachers.

· Pre-reading fiction/non-fiction texts.

· Researching information/topic areas ahead of the lesson.

Pre-reading information in advance of the lesson to enable the retrieval of this knowledge and deeper thinking in the lesson. This is predominantly used with our KS5 students.