Home Learning 2017

Term 2 Tips - 2017

We are learning about our own family history and how to say our mihi

One of the major themes for this term is completing the Pou Maori. This involves learning about the stories that make up the local history and how we can locate ourselves in the Maori world. 

Term 1 Tips - 2017

We are learning about Lent and the differences we can make during this time.

Our theme for this term is ‘Care for our Common Home - Kaitiakitanga’. We are looking to grow in compassion and empathy for the poor and vulnerable in other countries around the Pacific and the rest of the world. Pope Francis challenges us in this year ‘Laudato Si’ to make a difference in others’ lives by making small changes to our daily actions

Home Learning at Holy Cross School 2017

This year we have made some small changes to our home learning programme.  These changes are based on your feedback, our own review of home learning and of course, current research findings. 

Research shows that the types of home learning that have the most impact on student learning are:

  • Joint parent/ whānau interventions e.g., Pause-Prompt-Praise reading
  • Teacher designed interactive home learning (TIPS)
  • Access to family/ community knowledge e.g., students interviewing family members
  • Teacher feedback on home learning
  • Quality interactions as opposed to independent worksheets and exercises

Writing, punctuation and spelling skills are learnt in a meaningful way.  While supporting your child’s learning you will all benefit from quality family time.  We encourage you to try out some of these activities: Target, Boggle, Scrabble, crosswords, or writing a letter to a grandparent or relative.

Last year we purchased a number of quality board games for our older students. We hope to loan these to families to support their child’s learning at home.  The class teacher may suggest specific games.  Students can borrow these games from our school library. Next term we will hold a Board Games evening so you can come along and try some of these fantastic games.

Teachers Including Parents in  Schoolwork (TIPS)

TIPS Home Learning activities relate to what your child is learning in class.  Your child’s teacher will design each activity with a literacy, mathematics or inquiry-based focus.  TIPS activities provide an extra opportunity for families to work together and have rich learning conversations.

We look forward to working in partnership with you this year to support meaningful home learning opportunities.

Best wishes,

Holy Cross School Staff