Why is homework necessary?

Now that summer is over, the hurricanes are rolling in, and Florida is as humid as a gym sauna, it is time for teachers to return to school and make a decision: Will I assign homework this year?

I know this might not be popular among my students, but I give homework, and I will always give homework.

There's a debate within the education community about homework. Is it effective for the learning process? Is it a waste of time? Do students receive too much homework? Should schoolwork only be done at school and not be required at home?

I understand that students have lives of their own and may feel overwhelmed by large amounts of work. I understand that the assignments may feel like busy work. I understand that students may not feel that they are learning from their homework. However, I believe that it is still necessary.

1. Reinforcement of Classroom Learning

Imagine you just learned about fractions in math class. Doing homework problems at home helps you practice and remember how to solve them. Homework gives students a chance to apply what they’ve learned in class, reinforcing their understanding and helping them retain information better.

2. Development of Responsibility and Time Management

By having to complete assignments by a certain deadline, students learn how to manage their time and prioritize tasks. Homework teaches important life skills like responsibility and time management, which are essential for success in both school and future careers.

3. Preparation for Upcoming Lessons

Reading a chapter before it’s discussed in class prepares students to understand the material better when the teacher explains it. Homework often introduces concepts that will be covered in the next class, helping students come to class ready to learn and participate.

4. Opportunities for Independent Learning

When working on a science project at home, students may need to research and explore topics on their own, which encourages curiosity and independent thinking. Homework allows students to explore subjects more deeply on their own, fostering independence and a love for learning.

5. Teaching Project Management and Accountability

Completing a long-term project, like a research paper, teaches students how to plan, organize, and follow through on tasks over time. Homework helps students develop project management skills and a sense of accountability, preparing them for future responsibilities in both academic and professional settings.

As a teacher, I believe my role is to guide students toward becoming responsible, independent, and accountable adults, fully prepared for the challenges of adulthood. While I may not teach them practical skills like changing the oil in their car, I can equip them with the tools they need to thrive: from mastering reading comprehension to understanding the complexities of history. My aim is to not only educate them academically but also to instill the qualities that will serve them well throughout their lives.