Homework Tips
Homework is a
reinforcement of the skills taught in school. It helps the students gain a better understanding of lessons
taught and to earn better grades, The homework process also offers a student
the chance to develop skills in self-discipline, responsibility, and the
ability to work independently. Here are some helpful hints for students and
parents from Betty Debnam (Washington Post Mini Page, Sept. 2000/2004) to start
the year off:
*FOR
PARENTS
- Set aside a space for homework completion. Place school supplies in the area for
easy access during completion of assignments.
- Set aside a time for homework. In our busy schedules it is as
important to schedule time for homework as it is to provide time for outside
activities.
- Check on homework assignments and provide
assistance when needed. One parent
I know has established a five-minute ruleif her child cannot figure out the
assignment/problem in five minutes, she will be available for assistance. Otherwise, she just checks the homework
for completion. Be available to
talk through the harder assignments.
- Stay in touch with the teacher. You are partners in your childıs
success and the more the lines of communication stay open the better.
*FOR
STUDENTS
- Set a regular time for homework. You may want to start your homework
after having a healthy snack. You
may want to unwind by watching your favorite show or reading a book for 30
minutes before starting your homework.
You want to pick a time when you are as alert as possible (waiting until
you are tired to start homework almost guarantees that it will take longer to
complete).
- Pick a quiet place to complete your
homework. One student calls her
place of study ³The Homework Zone.²
She uses the same place every day so that all materials needed are on
hand to successfully complete assignments.
- Avoid distractions. Some boys and girls like to work with
quiet music on in the background.
Keep away from the TV and phone calls while studying.
- Make sure you have the school supplies you
need in your place of study. These
may include paper, pencils, crayons, glue sticks, a ruler, a dictionary, or a
calculator.
- Ask your family for help in organizing
study time for your longer assignments.
Itıs best to try to do your homework on your own. Itıs OK to ask your
family to check it over when you are finished.
- Think each assignment through. Ask yourself:
*Do
I understand what the directions are asking me to do?
*Is
this assignment similar to ones Iıve done before?
*How
can I organize my time to finish my assignment?
*Do
I need help to complete the assignment?
*Is
this my best work?
- If you are having trouble with an
assignment, donıt hesitate to ask the teacher for help. Sometimes having the directions
explained again, or another example shown, is all you need to complete the
assignment independently.