Assessment
Teachers are regularly assessing students' progress against set standards, not each student's position in ranking order. In addition to teacher-designed tests, assessment takes into account classroom observations, projects, reports, homework and portfolios. Self-assessment and peer assessment are also utilized. Report cards are issued at the end of each semester to inform parents of their child's academic progress, work habits and character development. Progress reports are given in October and April, and communication between teachers and parents via email, telephone or after-school appointments is welcomed. The ISF Academy believes success breeds success, and recognizes the academic, social and behavioral achievements of our students regularly.
Students are not required to participate in public examinations administered by the Government of the HKSAR.
It is the intent of the school that graduates of The ISF Academy will receive the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma upon successful completion of their last two years of secondary school. Recipients of the IB diploma enjoy a high rate of acceptance at leading universities around the world, including those in Hong Kong and Mainland China.
Homework
Homework is a valuable aid to help students make the most of their school experience. Homework strengthens academic skills, reinforces concepts learnt in class, encourages students to develop responsibility and good study habits, and helps parents stay aware of their child's work. Teachers will assign homework based on the maturity and ability level of students in a given class. The following chart suggests average amounts of homework students can expect:
| Grade 1: |
Approximately 30 minutes every school night |
| Grade 2: |
Approximately 40 minutes every school night |
| Grade 3: |
Approximately 50 minutes every school night |
| Grade 4: |
Approximately 80 minutes daily |
| Grade 5: |
Approximately 90 minutes daily |
| Grade 6: |
Approximately 100 minutes daily |
| Grade 7: |
Approximately two hours daily |
Reading is an integral part of students’ language development. The times indicated above are inclusive of 15 to 20 minutes of home reading. Students are encouraged to read for pleasure on weekends and holidays. |