Homework and Study Tips

Franklin students will get a lot of their homework assigned through Canvas which is accessible through the student's Chromebook or their Google account on any electronic device. Some tips for homework and studying are the following:

• Routine: A homework routine is very important skill to develop in middle school,so students are prepared for longer homework requirements in high school and postsecondary . Homework should be done at a consistent time daily when possible. It's recommended that the student take a short break upon arriving home from school, have a healthy snack, stretch and then get homework started before engaging in activities such as watching TV, playing video, using social media. Some students need a longer break in between school/home; however it is still important to develop a consistent that works for the student and family.

• Busy Schedule: If a student has a busy after school schedule doing extra-curricular activities or sports, homework time should be scheduled in every night to ensure it is getting done. School work should be a priority. 

• Staying Organized: Having 6 different classes throughout the day can be difficult to manage for some students. It's important that students stay organized. It's important to keep book bags and lockers cleaned out so students can find things quickly and not lose important papers. If students need notebooks/folders for different classes, designate one color for each class so students know what to look for when getting materials ready and being prepared for class. It may also be necessary for students to keep an assignment book to keep record of assignments, deadlines, and school activities.  

• Environment: Students need a learning-conducive environment at home just as they do at school. There should be a dedicated homework area that's quiet (without any electronic devices with exception of the student's school Chromebook), with good lighting and seating that works for the student's individual needs. Homework supplies should remain in this area including pencils, sharpener, paper, calculator. This is also a good space to store the Chromebook charger, so the student can charge it every night.

• Larger Projects: When students are assigned larger projects they should not wait until the night before to begin. Student should chunk these assignments each night to make sure it's completed and done well.

• Bedtime: Sleep is very important at this age. Students should not be doing homework late at night. The CDC recommends that students ages 11-12 get 9-12 hours of sleep/night and students ages 13-18 get 8-10 hours per night.  Lack of sleep causes a low tolerance for frustration, inability to focus, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and lower levels of academic stamina. Go to bed early!!

• Breaks: Some students need frequent break while studying or doing homework. Short breaks (10 minutes at the most) are great as long as they don't include usage of technology.

• Rewards: We are all motivated by external rewards. Students can reward homework completion with time playing video games, using phone, watching tv, etc.