homework

Homework refers to tasks assigned by teachers for students to complete outside regular classroom hours. It is used to reinforce skills learned in class, prepare students for upcoming lessons, and extend inquiry through reading, writing, problem solving, or project work. Homework may be done individually or in groups and can include worksheets, essays, readings, or digital assignments. The design and burden of homework vary widely by country, grade level, and school policy.

The practice has historical roots in formal education, with its prominence rising in the 19th and 20th centuries as schooling systems expanded. Today, many education systems regulate expectations around the amount and type of homework, while others emphasize in-class learning or alternatives. Debates about its value, equity, and impact on well-being are common, and researchers continue to study its effects.

Purpose statements include practice of skills, independent learning, preparation for future lessons, and feedback opportunities for teachers. Common types are routine practice problems, reading assignments, written responses, and longer projects or research tasks that span multiple days.

Empirical findings on effectiveness are mixed. Some studies show small to moderate positive associations between homework and achievement for older students, while evidence for younger students is weaker. Critics argue that excessive or poorly designed homework can increase stress, widen inequities, and reduce time for family, extracurriculars, and sleep. The value of homework often depends on quality, relevance, and meaningful feedback.

Effective homework practices emphasize alignment with learning goals, clarity of instructions, appropriate difficulty and workload, timely feedback, and opportunities for students to reflect on their work. Schools may provide guidance on recommended maximum weekly hours by grade level and offer supports for students who struggle or lack access to resources.