The Homework Grid

In 2007 Homebush Public School will be introducing a revolutionary new homework system across K-6, called “The Homework Grid.” The Homework Grid was originally devised by St Augustine ’s Parish School in Adelaide to address a series of issues they had regarding homework. It incorporates ideas and recommendations suggested by Ian Lillico, a leader in boys’ education.

The Homework Grid broadens the definition of work done at home to incorporate a series of less sedentary activities. Homework in the past has involved children in sedentary activities, which have contributed to obesity. The Homework Grid aims to provide opportunities for children to be involved in more physical activity as well as providing life skills and academic skills that take them beyond the school. It also aims to bring families closer together as they work through the completion of the Homework Grid on a fortnightly basis.

How Does the Homework Grid Work ?

There are 12 individual components, which are completed over a fortnightly basis, similar to a contract. Each day children complete different sections of the Homework Grid and record either through a journal or verbally what they have completed the night before. Parents are involved in making sure each component is completed and signing off sections as they are completed.

What are the 12 components of the Homework Grid ?

Read: This should be a nightly activity and may involve reading books, magazines, newspapers etc.
Be Read To: This assists the child to bond with their parents as they listen to them read using intonation and expression. It enables children to use their imagination and develop an appreciation for books.
Shopping: It provides opportunities to provide life skills such as budgeting, selecting, discerning, totalling, money handling, reading item labels, discovering what things cost and value for money.
Physical Activity: This should be a daily part of the homework routine. It assists children to attain more healthy, active and happier lifestyles. This may involve sport training, walking, riding a bike, walking the dog etc.
Housework: This should be a daily component of the Homework Grid. This provides a bonding experience between parents and children and enables children to be given responsibility at home. This could include children making their bed, setting and clearing the table, washing or drying the dishes, etc.
Art: This provides a balance between work and leisure activities. It may include work set by schools and teachers such as drawing, investigating different artists, painting, sewing etc.
Teach Your Parents: The best way to understand what has been learnt is to teach the concept to someone else. This may involve teaching parents or siblings about a concept they have learnt at school or through research .
Play a game with an adult: This develops communication and interaction between family members and enhances problem solving skills. It could include outdoor or indoor activities or even games designed by the children themselves. It also develops patience and cooperation.
Assignments/ research: This is where research can be undertaken through a variety of means such as internet, television, newspapers, libraries etc.
Meditation/ Spiritual / Relaxation: This enables children to participate in some introspective time. It may include activities such as prayer, listening to music, watching television or meditation.
Use Computer for Work: This entails using the computer for researching, email, word processing, using specific programs to develop skills such as spreadsheets and data bases.
Cultural : This develops an appreciation for The Arts and may involve attending concerts, shows, music lessons, drama, listening to music and other activities which may be related to the child’s cultural background.