Homework For English Classes

A Guide for Parents

Sancta Maria pupils should be completing English homework on a regular basis.  This homework will sometimes simply consist of reading.  Pupils who read every night do much better than reluctant readers.  When reading, pupils need to consult a dictionary every time they read a strange word.  This process will build vocabulary.  One way to assist your children with reading is to ensure that they read newspapers and magazines like The Listener or Time.  Try to get your son/daughter into the habit of reading half an hour every night.

Pupils in every class will work on assignments throughout the year.  Parents can assist by ensuring that assignment work is attempted most nights and not left to the last few days to rush through.

Spelling tests are done in class and pupils study for these at home.  Results for spelling tests are usually mixed.  Some pupils regularly score 20/20, but too many are consistently scoring below 10.  Please check your child’s spelling scores and help them to improve their results.  Test them at home.  The words tested in class will be tested in the end of year exam.  There is a Year 9 and Year 10 spelling list.  Pupils need to know how to spell these words.

Pupils also have journal writing to complete for homework.  In their journals, pupils will write diary entries, poems, creative essays, their opinions, film reviews etc.  These journals are collected and assessed.  Writing, like reading, needs to be practised, and journal writing assists in this goal. 

There are many one-off homework exercises to complete, such as preparation for book talks or speeches, debate research, set essays etc.  There is always something to do.  Find out what your child must do and never accept the age-old excuse of not having homework to complete.  There will always be books to read.