Many of my students complain about homework and honestly, I get it. However, when done right, homework isn’t just extra work; it’s a key part of learning that helps students understand, refine, and build essential skills.
Firstly, homework reinforces learning. Just like practicing a sport or an instrument, going over material at home helps understand ideas, making them easier to recall later. Learning something once in class isn’t always enough; repetition strengthens memory and understanding, making students more confident when facing new challenges.
Then there’s independent thinking. In class, students have teachers or tutors to guide them, but at home, or during exams, they need to figure things out for themselves. Homework helps develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and confidence, which are valuable far beyond school. When students tackle assignments on their own, they learn how to break down problems, think critically, and find solutions, skills that will help them in university, work, and everyday life.
One of the biggest complaints I hear is, “I’m too busy!”, and fair enough, students juggle a lot. Learning to balance responsibilities early on builds time management skills that make life much easier down the track. Adults deal with deadlines all the time, homework is just early training for that. The ability to prioritise tasks, stay organised, and manage time effectively is something that benefits students long after they leave school.
And let’s not forget the home to school connection. When parents check in on their child’s homework, it starts conversations about what they’re learning, where they’re excelling, and where they might need extra support. It’s a great way to stay involved without overwhelming them. Homework also gives parents insight into their child’s strengths and struggles, allowing them to provide guidance and encouragement.
Of course, balance is key, too much homework can be stressful, while too little is not sufficient. When it’s meaningful and manageable, homework helps students gain knowledge, independence, and life skills. So while it might not always be fun, homework is definitely worth the effort!
Vicki Synesios
