At what age should it be compulsory? Homework Presented by: Lisa Smith (Personal photos, 2011)

What is homework? What does it include? Homework is simply that, school work that is done at home. Homework for children in kindergarten is usually home readers, practicing reading, writing and activity sheets. Years one and two can expect formally set homework. Years three to six can expect formally set homework that increases in difficulty and requires more time and attention. (New South Wales Department of Education and Training. n.d)

Why is homework valuable? Homework gives children time to revise and consolidate what they have learnt in class. Children take responsibility for their own learning. Establishes a good study habits for later in their schooling. Gives the parent an insight into what their child is being taught in the classroom and how their child is progressing. Reinforces that learning does not only occur in the classroom. Teaches children from a young age about time management and creates good study habits. (Department of Education and Training: Homework Policy, 2000)

The disadvantages Finding a good balance between homework and leisure time for children is of high importance in order for children and parents alike to have a positive relationship with homework. Disadvantages of homework include: Disrupting leisure time. Can take away from “family” time. Can give children a sense of anxiety/frustration. Leave limited time for extracurricular activities. Cause arguments with parents. Children can lose interest in the task. (Alanne & Macgregor, 2009)

As parents, how can we help? As parents you can help your children understand that learning also takes place outside of the classroom. You can help your children succeed with their homework by: - Understanding the schools homework policy. -Maintain a positive relationship with your child’s teacher. -Encourage and praise the child’s efforts. -Make homework a part of the daily routine. -Provide assistance and give feedback where required. (Wilson, n.d)

Conclusion Homework will always be a source of debate among parents, students and teachers, however at one stage or another it will become a compulsory part of every students education. Final Points Homework is beneficial, even in the earliest years of formal schooling. The amount and complexity of homework increases as children progress through their schooling. There is no set time that homework should become compulsory, however year 1 seems to be when set and compulsory homework comes into effect.