Get your students to enjoy their homework!

Recently I came across an article that debated the importance of homework and how useful it can be. The article says that homework really does not have an impact on test scores for subjects like science, English or history but in the case of mathematics, homework is crucial, as practice is key factor in mathematics.

Homework is an integral part of schooling system. And if homework is given, whatever the subject is, it should be beneficial.

Here are a few different ways homework can be made more interesting by teachers:

1. Project or Assignment: This is a great way to allow the students to enjoy what they are doing. Be it writing a one page article, or solving a bunch of questions, get the children to bring out their creative hats! This will help them enjoy what they are doing, and also learn in process

2. Involve parents: Homework can be given as a great way for students to have a recap of what they learnt in school. Instead of giving it to them directly, get the children excited about the recap. They could have a recap session with their parents. They could question the parents, and teach the concepts learnt for the day. This will be a great way for parents to be aware of what their child learnt in school.

3. Allow the children to explore: Once a week, get the children to come and do a presentation on their learnings. It can be related to what they learn during that week or something completely different. This will help the child to build curiosity as strength and also help parents and teachers to be aware of their interests.

4. Flipped classroom: The most popular way of learning today is the flipped classroom. Through this, children learn at home and do their homework at school! A great way to learn! This allows teachers to spend more time with their class children and also children will learn at their own pace. This method is increasingly gaining popularity! You can learn more about flipped classroom here.

5. Outdoor activity: Can the homework be done outdoors by the child? If yes, get the child to go outdoors and complete the homework. A change of scene is a fresh start for the child and will excite them. You can also plan the outdoor activity homework. For example, if it is writing an article, you can assign the homework as visit a park, and write this article or answer these questions. Sometimes you can also ask the child if they were to do this homework not at home and someplace else. Where will it be and why? Children can surprise us with their answers! :)

Homework can never be banned as there will always be some school work that children will have to complete after school. Schools can consciously reduce the work given to the children. Take a look at this infographic on the time spent to do homework by 15 year olds based on an OECD report. No surprises why Finland still tops in education!