50 templates for improving teaching and learning Section 9: Checklists for reflective teachers

Am I setting effective homework?

Teachers’ notes
Rationale Homework is such a widespread feature of the education system that it is almost
taken for granted. However, research shows that homework is not always
effective at enhancing learning so its use needs to be regularly reviewed. Muijs
and Reynolds (2005) provide an accessible summary of the evidence on the
effectiveness of homework and this is reflected in the checklist.

Evidence suggests that homework is less effective for younger students. In the
lower primary level, homework may be completely ineffective and in upper
primary should probably never exceed 20 minutes per day. The effectiveness of
homework improves at secondary level but even in the upper years should
probably not exceed 90 minutes per day.

How to use The checklist contains a list of questions about those aspects of homework that
are thought to be most strongly linked to effectiveness. Teachers should reflect
on their use of homework and answer the questions to identify areas of good
practice and areas for improvement.

© Connect Publications 2007

50 templates for improving teaching and learning Section 9: Checklists for reflective teachers

Am I setting effective homework?

 ? 
Purpose
Am I always clear about the purpose of the homework?

Do I avoid setting homework as punishment?

Homework and curriculum

Is homework integrated into the lesson and/or topic?

Does homework reinforce the main curriculum ideas?

Level and type of task

Is the homework appropriate to the age and maturity of the students?

Is homework challenging but achievable?

Is homework suitably differentiated?

Organisation
Are students encouraged to use a homework planner to organise their work?

Are students encouraged to indicate the time spent on the homework?

Are there consequences for students who do not attempt the homework?

Is homework in line with any institution-wide approach/policy?

Is support for homework available outside lessons?

The environment for homework

Can I be sure that students have an adequate home environment for
homework?
Is homework often linked to everyday life and student experience?

Do I provide opportunities for parental feedback?

Quality of feedback
Is feedback provided swiftly?

Is feedback formative?

Comments/ideas

© Connect Publications 2007