Parents assist with the marking of homework
This innovative approach to science homework arose out of the
Department's concern regarding the need to cover 11 modules in the
academic year leading up to the Key Stage 3 performance tests.
After some deliberation, it was decided that two modules could be
completed in their entirety as free-standing homework tasks. Pupils
are given a term to complete each module, and their progress is
reviewed on a three weekly basis.
'Home Learning Zone' resource packs
To support this approach to independent learning, the above packs
were produced for the Health and Energy modules. The packs
comprise:
- a diagrammatic route map showing pupils their way through the
module. Pupils are given guidance on where to start, according to
their level of prior learning;
- a help sheet detailing where assistance and resource
information is available. This includes a 'Special Science
Surgery' that operates one evening a week from 3.15 to 4.15pm in
the Learning Resource Centre, where a teacher and sixth form
mentors are available to respond to individual learning needs;
- a self-assessment 'Skills Sheet', highlighting the skills
required when completing the module. When reviewing their
achievements pupils are able to appreciate the transferability of
these skills to other subject areas and life generally;
- a list of 'key words' that will help pupils with each homework
task, and promote literacy development within science; and
- differentiated homework tasks - these include a title for each
task, how long it should take to complete, and the 'personal
learning outcomes' of each activity.
It should also be noted that the homework tasks are designed to
incorporate a range of brain-based learning strategies, to meet the
needs of different learning styles.
Research skills assessment criteria
The Learning Resource Centre supports this approach to
independent learning with a criteria-based,
'stamped' reward for the pupils in their module resource pack.
This acknowledges the level and quality of research undertaken. This
is well received by the pupils, and also, provides valuable
information for staff.
Parent and teacher 'marking record score/comment
sheets'
In order to generate a dialogue between pupils and parents about
science, the science department has devised a mark-sheet that calls
upon parents to mark certain pieces of work, using an answer sheet
and homework record card. These are posted directly to the parents,
with a covering letter, at the beginning of each module. The
mark-sheets also provide space to encourage parents to communicate
with the staff on any issues that arise from their involvement.
The staff marking scheme is criteria-linked, acknowledging effort
and understanding. Effort is also rewarded through a fortnightly
draw, with the winners given small prizes of a scientific nature.
Learning outcomes
These include:
- the opportunity for pupils to be more flexible with the time
they allocate to homework;
- staff report increased motivation in terms of the completion
of homework and an improved quality of work;
- parents have expressed their appreciation of the opportunity
to make informed comment on their children's work; and
- pupils see homework as being purposeful.
This Home Learning Zone scheme has brought a more coherent and
consistent approach to homework in a large science department.
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