Homework is often a source of stress for students, their families and educators. Why? In part due to the numerous materials, skills and tasks involved. Homework gives students an opportunity to review and practice what was taught in school, prepare for class, become independent and responsible learners and develop thinking, memory, time management, problem solving and study skills. Nevertheless, we tend to focus on the difficulties encountered and the negative feelings we associate with homework. This goes for all parties involved; no matter what your role is in the homework process.
By breaking down the homework process into clear, manageable subtasks, homework can turn into an opportunity for success. How? Checklists, checklists, checklists! Checklists are an easy-to-use part of an efficient homework routine for home and school. The following homework checklist is designed for independent student use at home, allowing each child to self-monitor.
To view and print out the Homework Checklist, click here.
Additional Resources
The following online resources and videos will also help families establish a successful homework routine.
To view and print out a list of Internet Resources students can use to help them complete their assignments, like online dictionaries, click here.
To watch short videos about healthy homework habits, click below:
The nightly plan. Click here
Homework routine. Click here
Using a planner. Click here
Try it!
Set up a homework routine. As a part of that routine, use a checklist to structure homework time, thereby creating a calmer atmosphere at home and improving school performance.
Family members: Review the homework checklist with your child and gradually decrease your level of support until he or she is able to get through homework time independently or with appropriate support based on the child's age and needs. This may take a few months. No matter how independent your child is, however, you should always be available for questions and to provide encouragement during homework time.
Professionals: Discuss and share the homework checklist with your students and their family members. This may be the jumping off point for making checklists to support other classroom procedures.