The start of a new school year inevitably generates discussions about homework—at school, at home, and in the media. What can teachers do to make homework more family-friendly? Two strategies include monitoring the amount of time students spend on homework and communicating clearly in homework assignments.
The National PTA and National Education Association recommend that children in kindergarten through second grade spend 10-20 minutes each school day on homework; children in grades 3-6 should spend 30-60 minutes a day. Time recommendations for middle and high school students vary by subject, particularly with the increased number of long-term projects. Some researchers suggest their homework not exceed 2-3 hours per night. Unfortunately, some students spend more or less time on homework than recommended. Time spent on homework can create stress for families even though teachers may not intend for it to do so.
Teacher Reflections: Consider polling the students in your class(es) about how much time each spent on a particular homework assignment. Compare their reports to your estimate of how long the assignment should take. Talk with the students who spent more or less time than expected on the assignment to resolve any questions or concerns. Coordinate which teachers assign homework on a given night to avoid too much homework.
In addition to homework's instructional purposes, assignments also serve as a communication tool. Teachers may use homework as a way to communicate with parents about what their children are learning or may assign projects requiring parent-child discussions. When homework is used for these purposes, teachers must communicate in ways that both students and their families understand. Teachers should also be clear about student and family responsibilities in completing homework. When roles are unclear, families may assume too much responsibility and students too little.
Teacher Reflections: How might you improve your homework communications with parents so that they know more about what their children are learning and how to support student learning at home? Consider implementing the Teachers Involve Parents in Schoolwork (TIPS) Interactive Homework Process as a way to encourage more frequent family involvement in student learning.By respecting student and family time and roles in the homework process, teachers send strong messages that family involvement is a critical and valued piece of children's education.
Van Voorhis, F. L. (2004). Reflecting on the homework ritual: Assignments and designs. Theory Into Practice, 43(3), 205-212.