At Dalmain, homework is designed to be short, focused, and age-appropriate. Research shows that shorter daily practice is most effective, helping children develop skills, confidence, and positive learning habits.

📖 Reading – 15 minutes per day (all children) 📖

Reading every day builds:

• Vocabulary

• Comprehension

• Imagination

Pupils should spend at least 15 minutes each evening reading. This could be:

• A book, comic, or magazine

• Reading aloud with a family member

• Listening and sharing a favourite story

Parent Tip: Set aside quiet time each evening and talk to your child about what they read.

➗ Maths – Daily Key Instant Recall Facts (KIRFs) ➗

KIRFs are essential number facts (e.g. number bonds, times tables) that support all areas of maths. They help pupils calculate quickly and accurately, boosting confidence in problem-solving.

Recommended practice times:

• Year 1 & 2: 5 minutes per day

• Year 3 & 4: 10 minutes per day

• Year 5 & 6: 15 minutes per day

How KIRFs Home Learning Works

• Each half term, children will be set a new focus - see attachment below.

• Practice should be little and often, not long sessions.

• KIRFs can be learned anywhere: in the car, walking to school, or at the dinner table.

• Regular practice supports quick recall and long-term retention.

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How Parents Can Help at Home

• Provide a calm, distraction-free space.

• Encourage short, regular practice.

• Ask questions and show interest.

• Praise effort as much as achievement.

• Model good habits by reading or practising alongside your child.

With your support, homework will:

• Reinforce class learning

• Build confidence in maths

• Nurture a lifelong love of reading

Thank you for helping us strengthen the home–school partnership at Dalmain!