The Homework Myth: Why Practice Doesn't Always Make "Perfect" by Pepi Silverman

Education should result in learning, yet, the work involved does not always lead to new knowledge. Students are assigned class work, but does it create a deeper understanding? The unfortunate answer is, "that depends."  Learning activities should offer engaged practice for the students. After class comes the homework for more practice, but most research has shown that homework rarely contributes to enhanced learning. Parents should ask the following questions:

• Does this assignment make kids more excited about the topic and learning in general? 
• Does this assignment help kids to think more deeply about questions that matter?

Concerned parents, who question the quality of the homework, talk to teachers and principals to ensure that the practice is work worth doing.