Homework

I just read through three blogs about HOMEWORK. Apparently there is some kind of debate going on about the importance of it and the degree of homework given depending on age.

After reading through them all, I think I have to agree that less homework is important in the elementary years. Six hours at school is a long time for them and quite stressful. At this age children are much more eager to learn if they are given the right motivations for their readiness, learning styles and interests. Reading is probably the most important aspect of their education at this level because if they are illiterate as they move up, they will not be as successful in ANY of the subjects required as they could be. Reading at night is a good family practice anyways. I think growing up it was a nice slow down to the evening, it was time spent with the people I loved, and it was a story! In some cases I think math should be done as homework as well because for some children they need assistance all through class to get the concepts, but are they able to take learning into their own hands or to complete the questions independently? They won't be successful if they cannot do it on their own either. Also, if students are not given any homework in the early years, they will get to the higher grades and be overwhelmed and unorganized when trying to keep track of what is required for them in all their classes.

I agree that children need extra-curricular activities, time with family, and time to just relax and/or play. I think everyone does. Its a big part of mental health. I also have a motto that goes "Work hard, Play hard". It's the concept of work ethic and meriting a break. Do you deserve the break?

My other comment regarding homework goes along with the saying "Practice makes perfect", well I like to re-amp it a little to"Practice makes better", because you can't always expect perfection. Think about all the extra-curricular activities kids have though. Dance, music, hockey, volleyball, etc. they are all based on practicing in order to be successful! School is no different in that aspect. Children need practice in order to be successful in literacy and arithmetic.