So, given the fact that I assign minimal homework at best, you might think that I am anti-homework. False, I think homework is super valuable as a teaching and learning tool.
Here’s Why I Still Assign Homework
1. It teaches responsibility
Yes, lots of things teach responsibility.
Chores, expectations, and rules teach responsibility. But this is something that a child is solely responsible for. It is his own work. If he fails to complete it, he loses points or is marked down, affecting his final grade in the subject.
No one else can do the work for her; if she wants to benefit, she must put in the time.
2. It creates a home-school connection
Ever wonder what your kid does all day at school? Homework can help you figure that stuff out!
Homework can let you see where your child is struggling. It makes it easier to address potential issues sooner!
3. It reinforces key concepts in a different environment
Good homework IS review! Work at home should reinforce concepts your child has already been taught in the classroom.
Nothing should be brand spanking new or untaught (unless your teacher runs a flipped classroom). Which means that your child should NOT be struggling to complete work. If he is, you and the teacher can work together to smooth out the trouble spots.
4. Homework helps children learn time management
Soccer practice, piano lessons, and scout troop meetings all take up a ton of time after school. As adults, we know that work and our life commitment balancing doesn’t stop, ever.
With homework, kids get to practice strategies to do it all right now. Have soccer three times a week? That means the other two days need to be for homework and study. I honestly always do better when I have lots of things going on. With all the things on my checklist, and only limited time, I can prioritize tasks and condense work.
5. Education is important
Yes, sports and life is important. But so is education. By committing to homework, you are showing your child that you value learning.
Your child will also learn to think learning and school is important. This could lead to higher grades! Or even going on to college and grad school!
Homework is important. And not for purely academic reasons.
Yes, it can be a battle to get the homework done (and if that is the case, email your teacher and let her know!), but it is worth it.
~Meg
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