Homework Help

Homework is a valuable part of learning. Though you probably think it’s a pain, homework does help to cement lessons taught in class.

• Assume that you will have homework every night. Even if you completed your assignments, take time to review them. It’s easier to see any errors the second time around. Don’t forget to look ahead to long-term assignments like research papers or science projects. And if you’re fortunate enough to have time during the school day to finish all homework assignments, use your scheduled homework time to develop solid studying habits.

• Don’t be intimidated by homework. It’s like a sporting event, but for your mind. Homework is part of your learning process. If you’re having problems with an assignment, check with your teacher or look for free homework help that might be available in your area. Many public libraries offer either a live or online homework service. Tutors are another option.

• Make it a routine. Find a place and set a consistent time for doing homework. The adage is that it takes three weeks to develop a habit. Practice your homework routine and it should become second nature before long.

• Homework is one aspect of your study skills. While homework focuses on a specific assignment, studying goes beyond that to enhance understanding of the concepts and topics taught in class. You can find ideas for enhancing your study skills elsewhere in this newsletter.

Homework tips for parents

Parents can help students establish good homework skills. Homework motivation ideas for parents can be found online.

Improving Study Skills

You can always improve your study skills. Developing good skills and habits in high school will help you make learning the material more effective and ease the transition to college classes. In college, learning is a much more individual effort so going the extra mile in high school will pay off later on.

Some good study skills to develop:

• Questioning. If a concept doesn’t make sense to you, ask someone to explain it. Talk with a teacher or even a classmate who gets it. Ask questions until you feel you have a grasp on the topic.

• Make studying a regular habit. And don’t just focus on getting homework done. Really put effort into learning, understanding and applying the concepts learned in class to your daily activities.

• Take notes every day in class. Then review those notes. Highlight key points. Write down questions you want to ask and points to study further.

• Go beyond the assignment. Writing helps many people retain information, so take advantage of that and write down key points from reading assignments, make flash cards or create your own practice tests.

• Schedule it. Don’t let studying become just another item on the to-do list that remains undone. Schedule a regular time and place. Keep distractions to a minimum.

• Studying is really about developing a set of habits and skills that work best for you. Like any habit, it can be difficult to get into a routine, but stick with it and you’ll find it gets easier.