The Homework Debate: Finding the Right Balance for Student Success

Schools across the country are taking a fresh look at the role of homework in education, and taking steps to ensure that homework is effective. 

The National PTA and the National Education Association have long recommended that students be given 10 minutes of homework per grade level. In other words, 10 minutes for first grades, 20 for second grade, and so on.

High school students who take rigorous courses may need more homework. It’s not uncommon, however, for students to receive more homework.

The Benefits of Homework

A 2006 research analysis by Duke University psychology professor Harris Cooper found a positive correlation between homework and student achievement.

Cooper found that homework has benefits for improving study habits, attitudes toward school, self-discipline, inquisitiveness and independent problem solving skills.

Many schools have modified their homework policies to address both quality and quantity. Some schools have even adopted no-homework policies.

Since the research seems to indicate some benefits of homework for students, it’s easy to see how some parents would be concerned that their children might be missing out on an educational advantage without it. 

In general, research shows a modest benefit for elementary school students, with the benefit increasing in middle and high school. 

Quality vs. Quantity

Given the strain placed on the limited time children have to spend with their families each day during the school year, it’s important to be sure any time they spend doing homework is meaningful. 

In an interview with Edutopia.org, veteran middle and high school English teacher Brian Sztabnik recommends that teachers ask themselves the following five questions when assigning homework: 

• How long will it take to complete?

• Have all learners been considered?

• Will an assignment encourage future success?

• Will an assignment place material in a context the classroom cannot?

• Does an assignment offer support when a teacher is not there?

Check with your school to see if it has a policy regarding homework. Even when districts do establish policies, they usually include some flexibility. If a student is routinely receiving more homework than district or school policy advises, reach out to the school with your concerns.

Make the Most of Homework

The U.S. Department of Education offers the following tips for helping your child get the most out of homework:

• Make sure your child has a quiet, well-lit place to do homework.

• Make sure the materials your child needs, such as paper, pencils and a dictionary, are available.

• Help your child with time management. Establish a set time each day for doing homework, and don’t leave it until just before bedtime. 

• Be positive about homework. Encourage a positive attitude about homework by modeling that attitude.

• When your child does homework, you do homework. This will help your child associate homework with tasks he will need to perform as an adult.

• When your child asks for help, provide guidance, not answers.

• Participate in homework assignments when the teacher requests it.

• If homework is meant to be done by your child alone, don’t get involved.

• Talk with your child’s teacher so you understand the purpose of homework and any class rules about homework. 

• Have your child do the hard work first, then move on to easier tasks.

• Watch your child for signs of failure and frustration. Let her take a short break if needed.

• Reward progress in homework. Go out for pizza or a trip to the park to celebrate hard work.