essay about homework should be abolished

Are You Down With or Done With Homework?

• Posted January 17, 2012
• By Lory Hough

The debate over how much schoolwork students should be doing at home has flared again, with one side saying it's too much, the other side saying in our competitive world, it's just not enough.

It was a move that doesn't happen very often in American public schools: The principal got rid of homework.

This past September, Stephanie Brant, principal of Gaithersburg Elementary School in Gaithersburg, Md., decided that instead of teachers sending kids home with math worksheets and spelling flash cards, students would instead go home and read. Every day for 30 minutes, more if they had time or the inclination, with parents or on their own.

"I knew this would be a big shift for my community," she says. But she also strongly believed it was a necessary one. Twenty-first-century learners, especially those in elementary school, need to think critically and understand their own learning — not spend night after night doing rote homework drills.

Brant's move may not be common, but she isn't alone in her questioning. The value of doing schoolwork at home has gone in and out of fashion in the United States among educators, policymakers, the media, and, more recently, parents. As far back as the late 1800s, with the rise of the Progressive Era, doctors such as Joseph Mayer Rice began pushing for a limit on what he called "mechanical homework," saying it caused childhood nervous conditions and eyestrain. Around that time, the then-influential Ladies Home Journal began publishing a series of anti-homework articles, stating that five hours of brain work a day was "the most we should ask of our children," and that homework was an intrusion on family life. In response, states like California passed laws abolishing homework for students under a certain age.

But, as is often the case with education, the tide eventually turned. After the Russians launched the Sputnik satellite in 1957, a space race emerged, and, writes Brian Gill in the journal Theory Into Practice, "The homework problem was reconceived as part of a national crisis; the U.S. was losing the Cold War because Russian children were smarter." Many earlier laws limiting homework were abolished, and the longterm trend toward less homework came to an end.

The debate re-emerged a decade later when parents of the late '60s and '70s argued that children should be free to play and explore — similar anti-homework wellness arguments echoed nearly a century earlier. By the early-1980s, however, the pendulum swung again with the publication of A Nation at Risk , which blamed poor education for a "rising tide of mediocrity." Students needed to work harder, the report said, and one way to do this was more homework.

For the most part, this pro-homework sentiment is still going strong today, in part because of mandatory testing and continued economic concerns about the nation's competitiveness. Many believe that today's students are falling behind their peers in places like Korea and Finland and are paying more attention to Angry Birds than to ancient Babylonia.

But there are also a growing number of Stephanie Brants out there, educators and parents who believe that students are stressed and missing out on valuable family time. Students, they say, particularly younger students who have seen a rise in the amount of take-home work and already put in a six- to nine-hour "work" day, need less, not more homework.

Who is right? Are students not working hard enough or is homework not working for them? Here's where the story gets a little tricky: It depends on whom you ask and what research you're looking at. As Cathy Vatterott, the author of Rethinking Homework , points out, "Homework has generated enough research so that a study can be found to support almost any position, as long as conflicting studies are ignored." Alfie Kohn, author of The Homework Myth and a strong believer in eliminating all homework, writes that, "The fact that there isn't anything close to unanimity among experts belies the widespread assumption that homework helps." At best, he says, homework shows only an association, not a causal relationship, with academic achievement. In other words, it's hard to tease out how homework is really affecting test scores and grades. Did one teacher give better homework than another? Was one teacher more effective in the classroom? Do certain students test better or just try harder?

"It is difficult to separate where the effect of classroom teaching ends," Vatterott writes, "and the effect of homework begins."

Putting research aside, however, much of the current debate over homework is focused less on how homework affects academic achievement and more on time. Parents in particular have been saying that the amount of time children spend in school, especially with afterschool programs, combined with the amount of homework given — as early as kindergarten — is leaving students with little time to run around, eat dinner with their families, or even get enough sleep.

Certainly, for some parents, homework is a way to stay connected to their children's learning. But for others, homework creates a tug-of-war between parents and children, says Liz Goodenough, M.A.T.'71, creator of a documentary called Where Do the Children Play?

"Ideally homework should be about taking something home, spending a few curious and interesting moments in which children might engage with parents, and then getting that project back to school — an organizational triumph," she says. "A nag-free activity could engage family time: Ask a parent about his or her own childhood. Interview siblings."

Instead, as the authors of The Case Against Homework write, "Homework overload is turning many of us into the types of parents we never wanted to be: nags, bribers, and taskmasters."

Leslie Butchko saw it happen a few years ago when her son started sixth grade in the Santa Monica-Malibu (Calif.) United School District. She remembers him getting two to four hours of homework a night, plus weekend and vacation projects. He was overwhelmed and struggled to finish assignments, especially on nights when he also had an extracurricular activity.

"Ultimately, we felt compelled to have Bobby quit karate — he's a black belt — to allow more time for homework," she says. And then, with all of their attention focused on Bobby's homework, she and her husband started sending their youngest to his room so that Bobby could focus. "One day, my younger son gave us 15-minute coupons as a present for us to use to send him to play in the back room. … It was then that we realized there had to be something wrong with the amount of homework we were facing."

Butchko joined forces with another mother who was having similar struggles and ultimately helped get the homework policy in her district changed, limiting homework on weekends and holidays, setting time guidelines for daily homework, and broadening the definition of homework to include projects and studying for tests. As she told the school board at one meeting when the policy was first being discussed, "In closing, I just want to say that I had more free time at Harvard Law School than my son has in middle school, and that is not in the best interests of our children."

One barrier that Butchko had to overcome initially was convincing many teachers and parents that more homework doesn't necessarily equal rigor.

"Most of the parents that were against the homework policy felt that students need a large quantity of homework to prepare them for the rigorous AP classes in high school and to get them into Harvard," she says.

Stephanie Conklin, Ed.M.'06, sees this at Another Course to College, the Boston pilot school where she teaches math. "When a student is not completing [his or her] homework, parents usually are frustrated by this and agree with me that homework is an important part of their child's learning," she says.

As Timothy Jarman, Ed.M.'10, a ninth-grade English teacher at Eugene Ashley High School in Wilmington, N.C., says, "Parents think it is strange when their children are not assigned a substantial amount of homework."

That's because, writes Vatterott, in her chapter, "The Cult(ure) of Homework," the concept of homework "has become so engrained in U.S. culture that the word homework is part of the common vernacular."

These days, nightly homework is a given in American schools, writes Kohn.

"Homework isn't limited to those occasions when it seems appropriate and important. Most teachers and administrators aren't saying, 'It may be useful to do this particular project at home,'" he writes. "Rather, the point of departure seems to be, 'We've decided ahead of time that children will have to do something every night (or several times a week). … This commitment to the idea of homework in the abstract is accepted by the overwhelming majority of schools — public and private, elementary and secondary."

Brant had to confront this when she cut homework at Gaithersburg Elementary.

"A lot of my parents have this idea that homework is part of life. This is what I had to do when I was young," she says, and so, too, will our kids. "So I had to shift their thinking." She did this slowly, first by asking her teachers last year to really think about what they were sending home. And this year, in addition to forming a parent advisory group around the issue, she also holds events to answer questions.

Still, not everyone is convinced that homework as a given is a bad thing. "Any pursuit of excellence, be it in sports, the arts, or academics, requires hard work. That our culture finds it okay for kids to spend hours a day in a sport but not equal time on academics is part of the problem," wrote one pro-homework parent on the blog for the documentary Race to Nowhere , which looks at the stress American students are under. "Homework has always been an issue for parents and children. It is now and it was 20 years ago. I think when people decide to have children that it is their responsibility to educate them," wrote another.

And part of educating them, some believe, is helping them develop skills they will eventually need in adulthood. "Homework can help students develop study skills that will be of value even after they leave school," reads a publication on the U.S. Department of Education website called Homework Tips for Parents. "It can teach them that learning takes place anywhere, not just in the classroom. … It can foster positive character traits such as independence and responsibility. Homework can teach children how to manage time."

Annie Brown, Ed.M.'01, feels this is particularly critical at less affluent schools like the ones she has worked at in Boston, Cambridge, Mass., and Los Angeles as a literacy coach.

"It feels important that my students do homework because they will ultimately be competing for college placement and jobs with students who have done homework and have developed a work ethic," she says. "Also it will get them ready for independently taking responsibility for their learning, which will need to happen for them to go to college."

The problem with this thinking, writes Vatterott, is that homework becomes a way to practice being a worker.

"Which begs the question," she writes. "Is our job as educators to produce learners or workers?"

Slate magazine editor Emily Bazelon, in a piece about homework, says this makes no sense for younger kids.

"Why should we think that practicing homework in first grade will make you better at doing it in middle school?" she writes. "Doesn't the opposite seem equally plausible: that it's counterproductive to ask children to sit down and work at night before they're developmentally ready because you'll just make them tired and cross?"

Kohn writes in the American School Board Journal that this "premature exposure" to practices like homework (and sit-and-listen lessons and tests) "are clearly a bad match for younger children and of questionable value at any age." He calls it BGUTI: Better Get Used to It. "The logic here is that we have to prepare you for the bad things that are going to be done to you later … by doing them to you now."

According to a recent University of Michigan study, daily homework for six- to eight-year-olds increased on average from about 8 minutes in 1981 to 22 minutes in 2003. A review of research by Duke University Professor Harris Cooper found that for elementary school students, "the average correlation between time spent on homework and achievement … hovered around zero."

So should homework be eliminated? Of course not, say many Ed School graduates who are teaching. Not only would students not have time for essays and long projects, but also teachers would not be able to get all students to grade level or to cover critical material, says Brett Pangburn, Ed.M.'06, a sixth-grade English teacher at Excel Academy Charter School in Boston. Still, he says, homework has to be relevant.

"Kids need to practice the skills being taught in class, especially where, like the kids I teach at Excel, they are behind and need to catch up," he says. "Our results at Excel have demonstrated that kids can catch up and view themselves as in control of their academic futures, but this requires hard work, and homework is a part of it."

Ed School Professor Howard Gardner basically agrees.

"America and Americans lurch between too little homework in many of our schools to an excess of homework in our most competitive environments — Li'l Abner vs. Tiger Mother," he says. "Neither approach makes sense. Homework should build on what happens in class, consolidating skills and helping students to answer new questions."

So how can schools come to a happy medium, a way that allows teachers to cover everything they need while not overwhelming students? Conklin says she often gives online math assignments that act as labs and students have two or three days to complete them, including some in-class time. Students at Pangburn's school have a 50-minute silent period during regular school hours where homework can be started, and where teachers pull individual or small groups of students aside for tutoring, often on that night's homework. Afterschool homework clubs can help.

Some schools and districts have adapted time limits rather than nix homework completely, with the 10-minute per grade rule being the standard — 10 minutes a night for first-graders, 30 minutes for third-graders, and so on. (This remedy, however, is often met with mixed results since not all students work at the same pace.) Other schools offer an extended day that allows teachers to cover more material in school, in turn requiring fewer take-home assignments. And for others, like Stephanie Brant's elementary school in Maryland, more reading with a few targeted project assignments has been the answer.

"The routine of reading is so much more important than the routine of homework," she says. "Let's have kids reflect. You can still have the routine and you can still have your workspace, but now it's for reading. I often say to parents, if we can put a man on the moon, we can put a man or woman on Mars and that person is now a second-grader. We don't know what skills that person will need. At the end of the day, we have to feel confident that we're giving them something they can use on Mars."

Read a January 2014 update.

Homework Policy Still Going Strong

Ed. Magazine

The magazine of the Harvard Graduate School of Education

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Why I Think All Schools Should Abolish Homework

H ow long is your child’s workweek? Thirty hours? Forty? Would it surprise you to learn that some elementary school kids have workweeks comparable to adults’ schedules? For most children, mandatory homework assignments push their workweek far beyond the school day and deep into what any other laborers would consider overtime. Even without sports or music or other school-sponsored extracurriculars, the daily homework slog keeps many students on the clock as long as lawyers, teachers, medical residents, truck drivers and other overworked adults. Is it any wonder that,deprived of the labor protections that we provide adults, our kids are suffering an epidemic of disengagement, anxiety and depression ?

With my youngest child just months away from finishing high school, I’m remembering all the needless misery and missed opportunities all three of my kids suffered because of their endless assignments. When my daughters were in middle school, I would urge them into bed before midnight and then find them clandestinely studying under the covers with a flashlight. We cut back on their activities but still found ourselves stuck in a system on overdrive, returning home from hectic days at 6 p.m. only to face hours more of homework. Now, even as a senior with a moderate course load, my son, Zak, has spent many weekends studying, finding little time for the exercise and fresh air essential to his well-being. Week after week, and without any extracurriculars, Zak logs a lot more than the 40 hours adults traditionally work each week — and with no recognition from his “bosses” that it’s too much. I can’t count the number of shared evenings, weekend outings and dinners that our family has missed and will never get back.

How much after-school time should our schools really own?

In the midst of the madness last fall, Zak said to me, “I feel like I’m working towards my death. The constant demands on my time since 5th grade are just going to continue through graduation, into college, and then into my job. It’s like I’m on an endless treadmill with no time for living.”

My spirit crumbled along with his.

Like Zak, many people are now questioning the point of putting so much demand on children and teens that they become thinly stretched and overworked. Studies have long shown that there is no academic benefit to high school homework that consumes more than a modest number of hours each week. In a study of high schoolers conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), researchers concluded that “after around four hours of homework per week, the additional time invested in homework has a negligible impact on performance.”

In elementary school, where we often assign overtime even to the youngest children, studies have shown there’s no academic benefit to any amount of homework at all.

Our unquestioned acceptance of homework also flies in the face of all we know about human health, brain function and learning. Brain scientists know that rest and exercise are essential to good health and real learning . Even top adult professionals in specialized fields take care to limit their work to concentrated periods of focus. A landmark study of how humans develop expertise found that elite musicians, scientists and athletes do their most productive work only about four hours per day .

Yet we continue to overwork our children, depriving them of the chance to cultivate health and learn deeply, burdening them with an imbalance of sedentary, academic tasks. American high school students , in fact, do more homework each week than their peers in the average country in the OECD, a 2014 report found.

It’s time for an uprising.

Already, small rebellions are starting. High schools in Ridgewood, N.J. , and Fairfax County, Va., among others, have banned homework over school breaks. The entire second grade at Taylor Elementary School in Arlington, Va., abolished homework this academic year. Burton Valley Elementary School in Lafayette, Calif., has eliminated homework in grades K through 4. Henry West Laboratory School , a public K-8 school in Coral Gables, Fla., eliminated mandatory, graded homework for optional assignments. One Lexington, Mass., elementary school is piloting a homework-free year, replacing it with reading for pleasure.

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Across the Atlantic, students in Spain launched a national strike against excessive assignments in November. And a second-grade teacher in Texas, made headlines this fall when she quit sending home extra work , instead urging families to “spend your evenings doing things that are proven to correlate with student success. Eat dinner as a family, read together, play outside and get your child to bed early.”

It is time that we call loudly for a clear and simple change: a workweek limit for children, counting time on the clock before and after the final bell. Why should schools extend their authority far beyond the boundaries of campus, dictating activities in our homes in the hours that belong to families? An all-out ban on after-school assignments would be optimal. Short of that, we can at least sensibly agree on a cap limiting kids to a 40-hour workweek — and fewer hours for younger children.

Resistance even to this reasonable limit will be rife. Mike Miller, an English teacher at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria, Va., found this out firsthand when he spearheaded a homework committee to rethink the usual approach. He had read the education research and found a forgotten policy on the county books limiting homework to two hours a night, total, including all classes. “I thought it would be a slam dunk” to put the two-hour cap firmly in place, Miller said.

But immediately, people started balking. “There was a lot of fear in the community,” Miller said. “It’s like jumping off a high dive with your kids’ future. If we reduce homework to two hours or less, is my kid really going to be okay?” In the end, the committee only agreed to a homework ban over school breaks.

Miller’s response is a great model for us all. He decided to limit assignments in his own class to 20 minutes a night (the most allowed for a student with six classes to hit the two-hour max). His students didn’t suddenly fail. Their test scores remained stable. And they started using their more breathable schedule to do more creative, thoughtful work.

That’s the way we will get to a sane work schedule for kids: by simultaneously pursuing changes big and small. Even as we collaboratively press for policy changes at the district or individual school level, all teachers can act now, as individuals, to ease the strain on overworked kids.

As parents and students, we can also organize to make homework the exception rather than the rule. We can insist that every family, teacher and student be allowed to opt out of assignments without penalty to make room for important activities, and we can seek changes that shift practice exercises and assignments into the actual school day.

We’ll know our work is done only when Zak and every other child can clock out, eat dinner, sleep well and stay healthy — the very things needed to engage and learn deeply. That’s the basic standard the law applies to working adults. Let’s do the same for our kids.

Vicki Abeles is the author of the bestseller Beyond Measure: Rescuing an Overscheduled, Overtested, Underestimated Generation, and director and producer of the documentaries “ Race to Nowhere ” and “ Beyond Measure. ”

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Why Homework Should Be Banned: Exposing the Downsides

Ever find yourself tangled in the timeless debate over homework's place in the grand scheme of education? We've all been there, juggling report writing, math headaches, and the daunting task of creating scientific masterpieces. But here's the real head-scratcher: Is homework truly the indispensable learning buddy we've always thought it to be, or is it time for a reevaluation? Some swear by its magic and explain why should homework not be banned, while others can't help but wonder if it's become more of a cumbersome load on our students. Surveys even hint at a connection between too much schoolwork and the stress and health woes of our budding scholars. Beyond the academic hustle, there's a rallying cry for an all-out homework ban for a host of other reasons.

In the spirit of our friendly exploration, let's roll up our sleeves and delve into the nitty-gritty of why some folks champion schoolwork as a necessary companion on the learning journey while others share reasons why homework should be banned. Our essay writing service experts will sift through real-life success stories of schools or places where the ban-homework movement has gained traction, exploring the outcomes and implications.

10 Reasons Why Homework Should Be Banned

Now, let's shine a spotlight on the crux of the matter – the top 10 reasons why the cry for banned homework is getting louder.

Too Much Homework

School takes up all time, messes with sleep and health, no time for exercise.

• Makes Stress and Anxiety Worse
• Less Time to Hang Out with Friends
• Not Enough Time for Myself
• Less Time with Family
• Fights with Parents
• Limits Student Freedom

From the perennial issue of too much homework to the struggle for personal time and the toll it takes on sleep, health, and relationships, each reason is a thread in the tapestry of the anti-homework movement. So, let our ' do my homework ' writers uncover the challenges that homework poses on multiple fronts.

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Ah, the perpetual struggle against the mountainous pile of homework! It seems like every student's lament, doesn't it? The argument for why homework should be banned isn't about shirking responsibilities but rather about striking a balance. When the load becomes overwhelming, it can lead to stress, burnout, and a loss of the joy of learning.

Imagine the energy and enthusiasm that high school or college students could channel into exploring their passions or honing other essential life skills if they weren't constantly buried beneath assignments. The quantity of homework should complement the learning process, not overshadow it. A bit of reflection on the purpose and effectiveness of each assignment might just be the key to making homework a valuable tool rather than a source of dread.

But fear not! Here's a game-changer to transform your homework woes into a breeze – our homework planner online . This nifty tool is all about making school life simpler and boosting your study game. Easily keep tabs on tasks, exams, seminars, and even classmates' birthdays. No more missing deadlines – get timely notifications for upcoming classes, pending homework, and approaching exams. Take the reins of your schedule, customize your school calendar, and stay ahead with our clever homework manager. You can even hand off tasks to experienced experts. Consider it your go-to for acing your academic adventure!

The education system plays a pivotal role in shaping young minds, but should it consume every waking hour? The argument here isn't against the significance of learning but rather about reclaiming a sense of balance. School should be a place that nurtures well-rounded individuals, not a 24/7 commitment that leaves no room for personal exploration and growth. The discussion around the need for a homework ban amplifies this call for a more balanced and holistic educational experience.

Think about it—what about those hobbies that spark creativity, the friendships that build character, and the downtime that allows for self-reflection? When school takes up all the time, these crucial elements of personal development often fall by the wayside. The question then becomes: Are we preparing students for a life of constant work, or are we instilling in them the tools to navigate a diverse and fulfilling existence? It's time to reconsider the hours spent on school-related activities and ensure that students have the time and space to become well-rounded individuals who are not just academically adept but also equipped for the complexities of the real world.

Picture this: a student burning the midnight oil to complete assignments, sacrificing precious hours of sleep. It's a scenario all too common in the realm of repetitive homework tasks, and it begs the question—what's the cost to one's well-being? Sleep is not a luxury; it's a biological necessity. When homework interferes with this fundamental aspect of health, it becomes a cause for concern.

The repercussions extend beyond just feeling groggy in class. Lack of sleep can impact cognitive function, memory, and even mood. The irony is that the very tasks meant to enhance learning might be hindering it by compromising the health of students. Perhaps it's time to ask whether the pursuit of academic excellence should come at the expense of a good night's sleep and overall well-being.

In the hustle and bustle of academic demands, physical activity often takes a back seat. The argument here isn't about making everyone a fitness enthusiast but recognizing the vital role exercise plays in maintaining a healthy body and mind. When homework becomes an insurmountable obstacle, the opportunity for physical activity diminishes, contributing to a sedentary lifestyle that can have long-term consequences.

Exercise is not just about staying fit; it's a natural stress reliever and mood enhancer. By sidelining physical activity, we risk compromising not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. As we advocate for a balanced and holistic education, let's consider the importance of creating space for exercise and fostering healthy habits that extend beyond the confines of the classroom.

More Stress and Worry

Our dissertation service experts believe that homework, when excessive, can turn into a breeding ground for stress and worry. It's not just about meeting deadlines; it's about the toll it takes on the mental health of students. The pressure to excel academically is a given, but when the scale tips too far, it can result in a generation of students burdened with anxiety and worry.

Education is meant to be empowering, not anxiety-inducing. The worry about grades, completing assignments, and maintaining a stellar academic record can overshadow the joy of learning. Striking a balance that allows for intellectual growth without compromising mental health is not just a plea for sanity but a call for a more compassionate approach to education. After all, education should be a journey that enlightens, not a path wrought with stress and constant apprehension.

Homework Gets in the Way of Friends

Remember the laughter, camaraderie, and shared moments with friends? Excessive homework seems to have a knack for wedging itself between these precious connections. Friendships are not just a delightful aspect of student life; they contribute significantly to social development, emotional support, and the overall well-being of individuals.

When homework monopolizes time, the opportunity to nurture these vital friendships dwindles. It's not merely about hanging out; it's about the exchanges that shape character, build resilience, and offer perspectives beyond the confines of textbooks. Perhaps it's time to question whether homework should stand as a barrier to the formation of these meaningful relationships.

Not Enough Time for Oneself

In the race to complete assignments and meet deadlines, one casualty often overlooked is personal time. Every student needs moments of solitude and self-reflection. It's in these moments that passions are discovered, creativity thrives, and a sense of self deepens. Yet, the perpetual avalanche of homework leaves little room for this crucial aspect of personal development.

Time for oneself is not a luxury but a necessity. It's the space where one explores interests, dreams, and aspirations beyond the academic realm. When homework becomes an all-consuming force, it deprives students of the opportunity to discover their unique strengths and inclinations. The discussion on why should homework be banned calls for the reevaluation of the true purpose of education – is it merely about grades, or is it also about nurturing individuals who are self-aware, curious, and passionate about their own journeys?

Less Family Time

Family, the cornerstone of support and love, often takes a backseat when homework becomes the tyrant of time. Quality family time is not just a sentimental ideal; it plays a pivotal role in shaping values, building strong foundations, and fostering emotional well-being. However, when the demands of school spill over into every corner of a student's life and there is constant worry about how to write a coursework , family time inevitably suffers.

Think about the conversations around the dinner table, the shared activities, and the simple joys of being together. Excessive homework disrupts these essential moments, potentially eroding the very support system that is crucial for a student's success and happiness. It's a call to reconsider the balance between academic pursuits and the priceless moments spent with family members – moments that contribute to a well-rounded, emotionally resilient individual.

Arguments with Parents

Homework often becomes the battlefield for nightly skirmishes between parents and students. While parents may perceive themselves as enforcers of responsibility, the constant struggle over completing assignments can strain the parent-child relationship. It's not just about completing tasks; it's about the quality of family interactions and the emotional toll these conflicts can take.

The pressure to excel academically, often exacerbated by homework, can create a tense atmosphere at home. Arguments over study hours, completion of assignments, and academic performance can overshadow the nurturing and supportive role that parents are ideally meant to play, emphasizing the importance of parents' support. The discussion around a potential homework ban prompts us to question whether the burden of excessive homework is fostering a healthy parent-child dynamic or inadvertently becoming a source of familial tension.

Limits Students' Freedom

Ah, freedom—the essence of youth. Yet, excessive homework can feel like an invisible chains, restricting the very freedom that defines the student experience. Beyond academic pursuits, students need the freedom to explore, create, and discover their passions. At our college essay writing service , we firmly believe when homework becomes an all-encompassing force, it infringes upon this fundamental aspect of personal growth.

Think about the projects left unfinished, the books unread, and the hobbies neglected. The lack of freedom extends beyond the physical confines of the classroom; it infiltrates the very essence of what it means to be a student. It's time to reflect on whether education should be a process of liberation, encouraging students to spread their intellectual wings, or if it should be a rigid structure that confines them to a predetermined path.

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Why Should Homework Not Be Banned: Exploring 5 Benefits

Now that we've delved into the challenges and concerns surrounding homework let's pivot to the other side of the debate. While there are valid arguments against excessive homework, it's essential to consider the potential benefits that well-structured assignments can bring to a student's academic and personal development. Let's explore five reasons why homework, when approached thoughtfully, may have its merits.

Instills Discipline in Students

According to our essay writer , assigning homework in moderation serves as a valuable tool for instilling discipline in students. The process of setting aside time, managing tasks, and adhering to deadlines cultivates essential skills that extend far beyond the academic realm. It lays the foundation for time management, responsibility, and a strong work ethic—qualities that are undeniably beneficial as students transition into adulthood.

Consider homework as a training ground for life's challenges. Completing assignments teaches students to prioritize, organize, and persevere in the face of tasks that may not always align with their immediate desires. In this sense, homework becomes more than just a task; it becomes a character-building exercise that prepares students for the responsibilities they'll encounter in various facets of life.

Fosters Improved Understanding Among Peers

Collaboration is a cornerstone of effective learning, and well-designed homework assignments can facilitate improved understanding among peers. When considering why should homework not be banned, doing group projects or assignments with others not only helps students grasp the subject more deeply but also gets them better at teamwork.

Homework that encourages group discussions, knowledge sharing, and joint problem-solving contributes to a dynamic learning environment. Students learn not only from textbooks and lectures but also from the diverse perspectives of their peers. This fosters a sense of community within the classroom, promoting a cooperative spirit that extends beyond the completion of assignments and into the broader context of learning and growth.

Equips Students for Real-World Challenges

One of the often-overlooked benefits of homework lies in its capacity to prepare students for the challenges they'll face in the real world. Assignments that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent research mirror the complexities of professional and personal life beyond the classroom.

Consider a scenario where students are tasked with solving real-world problems, conducting interviews, or researching current events. These assignments not only deepen their understanding of the subject matter but also equip them with the practical skills needed for navigating the complexities of adulthood. Homework, when designed with an eye toward relevance, becomes a bridge between theoretical knowledge and the practical application of that knowledge in the real world.

Cultivates Skills and Expertise

Homework, when thoughtfully crafted, serves as a platform for students to cultivate a diverse set of skills and expertise. Beyond the acquisition of knowledge, assignments can hone analytical thinking, research skills, and the ability to articulate ideas effectively. Whether it's a written essay, a science project, or a math homework paper , each task contributes to the development of specific skills that are crucial for success in various fields.

Consider the student who delves into a research project or a creative endeavor as part of their homework. This isn't merely about completing an assignment; it's an opportunity for them to explore their interests, deepen their expertise in a particular area, and develop a passion for lifelong learning. Homework, in this sense, becomes a vehicle for skill development and personal growth, nurturing students into well-rounded individuals equipped to face the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

Fosters a Sense of Responsibility

Responsibility is a trait that transcends academic achievements and holds immense value in the broader spectrum of life. Homework, when approached with a sense of accountability, instills in students the importance of meeting obligations and honoring commitments.

Consider the student who consistently completes assignments, meets deadlines, and takes ownership of their academic responsibilities. This isn't just about earning good grades; it's about fostering a sense of responsibility that will serve them well in future endeavors. So, when arguing for why should homework not be banned, it becomes a microcosm of life's demands, teaching students the significance of reliability and accountability—qualities that are indispensable in both personal and professional spheres.

Banning Homework: Successful Cases

As the debate over homework rages on, some educational institutions and communities have taken a bold step—banning or significantly reducing homework. Let's explore a few stories of schools that have embraced this approach and the impact it has had on students, families, and the overall learning environment.

The Case of P.S. 116 in New York City:

In a groundbreaking move, P.S. 116, a public elementary school in New York City, decided to ban traditional homework for its students. Instead, the school focused on fostering a love for reading and encouraged students to engage in activities outside the classroom. The decision was based on research indicating that excessive homework might not necessarily lead to improved academic outcomes, and it could even contribute to stress and burnout.

The results were compelling. Parents reported a positive change in their children's attitude toward learning, with elementary students becoming more motivated and enthusiastic. Teachers noted that without the burden of traditional homework, they had more time for meaningful interactions with students during class hours. The experiment not only challenged conventional norms but also showcased the potential benefits of reimagining the role of homework in the learning process.

Finland's Education System:

Finland, often lauded for its innovative approach to education, has significantly reduced the emphasis on homework in its schools. Instead of focusing on quantity, Finnish educators prioritize the quality of instruction during school hours. Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, spend time with their families, and pursue interests outside of the academic realm.

The success of this approach is reflected in Finland's consistently high rankings in global education assessments. Students in Finland not only perform well academically but also report higher levels of satisfaction and well-being. The Finnish model challenges the notion that copious amounts of homework are essential for academic success and underscores the importance of a balanced and holistic approach to education.

The Harris Cooper Study:

While not a case of a specific school, the work of Harris Cooper, a renowned homework researcher, provides valuable insights into the impact of homework. Cooper's comprehensive analysis of various studies on homework found that, in elementary school, homework has little to no effect on academic achievement. In high school, the correlation between homework and achievement is modest, and excessive homework can have negative effects on well-being.

These cases and studies collectively suggest that reevaluating the role of homework can lead to positive outcomes for students and contribute to a more balanced and effective education system. As schools and communities continue to experiment with homework policies, these stories offer valuable lessons in shaping the future of education.

Final Outlook

So, here we are, exploring the reasons people say why homework should be banned, a mix of worries and possible advantages. It's a bit like navigating the ever-shifting currents of education, isn't it?

As we contemplate the future of education, let's pause. Let's ponder a landscape where the weight of assignments doesn't overshadow the joy of discovery. It's a quest for balance—where academic rigor dances with personal well-being, creating a melody that echoes through the halls of learning.

So, here's to an education that nurtures not just the mind but the spirit, an education that cherishes the uniqueness of each learner. As we stride forward, let's envision a realm where homework isn't a battleground but a bridge to knowledge and where the pursuit of excellence walks hand in hand with the pursuit of happiness. Cheers to finding that sweet spot in the symphony of education!

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Should Homework Be Abolished?

The french president proposes banning homework. is he right.

Posted October 18, 2012

French President François Hollande proposed banning homework as part of his plan to reform the French educational system. But is he throwing out the baby with the bathwater?

Hollande believes homework favors the wealthy and disadvantages children from poorer socioeconomic backgrounds because wealthier parents are more likely to have the time and means to support, monitor, supervise, and assist their children when they are doing their homework. The reality of such distinctions aside, such an all-or-nothing approach misses the more practical problems ALL students face when dealing with homework—the sheer volume of homework they are assigned.

I’ve written about this question previously (read, How Much Homework is Too Much ?) and stated that there are few if any studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of piling on excessive amounts of homework on students, especially when it comes to children in elementary and middle school.

When children are assigned too much homework, it taxes not just them but their parents as well. Further, children who are assigned hours of homework a day are often unable to engage in the kind of socializing and play that are essential for healthy child development . One easy guideline to keep in mind is that children should be assigned no more than 10 minutes a day of homework per grade level. A sixth grader should be doing no more than an hour of homework a day, and a senior in high school should have no more than two hours a day of homework. However, such is rarely the case, especially (but not exclusively) when it comes to private schools.

The French President’s initiative notwithstanding, homework is not likely to be abolished in the United States anytime soon. So what can or should parents do when they have concerns about the amounts of homework their children are assigned? First, parents should try and come together so they can address homework concerns to schools as a group. Second, they also need to become informed about studies that have examined the impact of homework on children. They should also be ready to inform their children’s teachers and principal, many of whom aren't aware of these findings, or in some cases, that such studies even exist.

If your children are doing excessive amounts of homework and you want to learn how to advocate for them you have to become a squeaky wheel, and not just speak up, but learn to do so effectively! For more on how to complain effectively as well as on how complaining psychology impacts our advocacy efforts, check out The Squeaky Wheel .

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Persuasive Essay Example: Abolishing Homework

When considering the issue of homework in school systems, it is clear that homework is best off abolished or diminished from/in the education systems in schools across the globe due to the negative effects it generates.

To begin, a reason to defend this claim is that homework induces many negative impacts among students and their families. For one, students exhibit higher levels of stress and are more likely to become sleep deprived due to the amount of homework assigned. For instance, one such study that supports this discusses, "...only 20 percent of adolescents between the ages of 11 and 17 get the recommended amount of sleep," (Ponte). According to this study, it is clearly evident that homework is harmful towards a student's wellbeing. Additionally, homework can make learning much more difficult and dreaded among students; causing students to perform more poorly academically. For example, a piece of evidence that supports this states, "...the study shows a negative relationship between higher homework amounts and student achievement in elementary schools, and only a very small benefit in middle schools," ("Global Homework Practices Do Not Always Correlate with Performance"). As you can see, too much homework can actually decrease student performance. This is a clear example of how homework can be injurious towards students.

Thirdly, homework is not advantageous for families. To elucidate, homework puts more stress on the families of students. To support this, an author writes, "After a long day at work, many parents understandably resent having to play Homework Cop, nor do they need any more issues over which to butt heads with their kids," (Ponte). This makes it evident that homework is not helpful for parents. As displayed, these three instances and studies both prove that high amounts of homework are detrimental towards students' health and academic performance along with their families. Therefore, it must be noticeable that homework should be reduced or removed from schooling. 

Moving onward, a sum of proponents of homework would propose that homework assists in helping students build up and construct organizational skills. Proponents explain that homework helps create a sense of responsibility within students; children are required to learn how to budget and ration their time to complete assignments. Another counterargument is that homework "drills" information and material in students to allow them to learn the information effectively. These are a few of the counterclaims brought up by proponents of homework.

Regardless, one could still argue that homework does not help students become more organized and responsible. Students are never permitted to make a decision on whether or not they have homework or what type or kind of homework. They are limited to what and when they have to complete assignments which does not allow them to make decisions themselves other than only budgeting their time. Additionally, it is also known that not many schools and/or classes teach students how to manage and organize their workload and time. Continuing, homework does not help a child understand the material by mass repetition with many problems. This is supported by a study that shows, "... according to the US Department of Education (DOE), five algebraic problems are all it takes to demonstrate whether or not a child understands a particular mathematical function," (Ponte). This represents how a student does not need hours of repetition within homework to understand classwork material. These pieces of evidence clearly depict how homework should be at least diminished or removed in schooling.

Ultimately, it is indisputable that homework has unfavorable effects on students within educational systems across the face of the Earth. As displayed in this presentation, homework is clearly shown in how it negatively impacts those who are assigned it. Therefore, homework should be reduced to be much shorter or even completely banned.

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Should Homework Be Abolished, Essay Example

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High school students are required to spend almost eight hours studying in educational institutions per day. Most of them are involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, language courses, and arts classes. Considering the fact that person needs to spend eight hours sleeping, homework is rather questionable pastime, as it leaves absolutely no time for rest.

Homework is now considered to be something indispensable for student’s development. It is always associated with improvement of subject knowledge, responsibility, and talents. Nonetheless, by assigning the same amount of homework to each student teachers discriminate some children. In fact, every person is unique. Therefore, each child requires attention and individual approach. “Homework is a black hole in the learning process, leaving teachers unaware of each student’s true educational level or progress and unable to scaffold new knowledge for the students” (Kralovek, 2001). By applying general rules of submitting assignments to the class professors simply neglect human capabilities.

The conference, held by Association of Teachers and Lecturers in England, has already raised a question of abolishing home assignments. Dr. Bousted, a member of this committee, states: “I think a lot of homework is a waste of time. The teacher has got to set it, so what gets set is ‘busy’ homework”. (BBC News, 2008). As homework was historically implemented to increase the knowledge of those students who failed some classes, it is now practiced simply to engage children in doing some activity. Considering recent development of technologies and Internet as a source of learning, homework can be substituted by more interesting activities.

Kralovek, E., Buell J. (2001). End Homework Now . Educational Leadership. Retrieved March 26, 2009 from http://www.dist113.org/hphs/departments/library/End_Homework_Now.htm.

BBC News. (2008). Teachers call for ban of homework . Retrieved March 26, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/education/7287962.stm.

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Argumentative Essay on Should Homework Be Banned From School?

According to nces.ed.gov, an average school day in the United States is 6.64 hours, meaning an average school week is 33.2 hours. Although, as stated in usnews.com, this does not include the average of 17.5 hours highschoolers spend every week on homework assignments. Over the course of curriculum changes around the world, whether homework should be given to children or not has been a big question. The unnecessary stress, disrupted sleep schedules, less interest in school, etc. versus the time management skills, more focus on school, responsibility, etc. The articles “Down With Homework” by Alfie Kohn, “Why I Think All Schools Should Abolish Homework” by Vicki Abeles, “Education Inequity: Homework and its Negative Impacts on Kids” by Joseph Lathan, and “The Benefits of Having Homework” by Knogi.com, substantiate the argument that homework should be banned from schools.

In particular, homework stresses students out, more than it helps them. Eventually, this will cause them to lose their interest in learning. The article “Education Inequity: Homework and its Negative Impacts on Kids'' by Joseph Lathans states, “‘The findings were troubling: Research showed that excessive homework is associated with high stress levels, physical health problems and lack of balance in children’s lives; 56% of the students in the study cited homework as a primary stressor in their lives,’ according to the CNN story. ”With the constant pressure to do well in school and get good grades, homework weighs a lot into that. High stress levels not only disinterest the students with learning, but may also cause mental/physical health issues later on. The case study notes that 56%, more than half of the students, complained that homework stresses them out more than anything else going on in their lives. The Scholastic article by Alfie Kohn read, “But in general, as one parent put it, homework simultaneously ‘overwhelms struggling kids and removes joy for high achievers.’ Even reading for pleasure loses its appeal when children are told how much, or for how long, they must do it.” By making children focus their entire lives on school through homework, they will eventually have no will to learn. Homework is a type of independent work that is done without any help from teachers, which may trouble many students. Without help, they will have difficulty understanding the concept, and may be graded on work they don’t understand. Rather, they should work hard during the school day and relax after, to motivate and encourage them to work better tomorrow. The unnecessary stress derived from homework assignments will eventually burn out students. Many students love to learn and are excited to go to school every day. However, putting so much stress and pressure through extra work, won’t interest them. Educators work to help children find passion in certain subjects, but when the work continues into the house too, their efforts are hopeless. By banning homework from schools, students will be able to find certain subjects that interest them and learn efficiently without getting exhausted or acquiring unnecessary tension.

In addition, homework also takes away valuable time kids can use for extracurricular activities. The TIME article by Vicki Abeles states, “For most children, mandatory homework assignments push their workweek far beyond the school day and deep into what any other laborers would consider overtime. Even without sports or music or other school-sponsored extracurriculars, the daily homework slog keeps many students on the clock as long as lawyers, teachers, medical residents, truck drivers and other overworked adults.” Homework begins after school and ends up extending until late hours of the day. Most adults are not even required to stay in office, or at their job for this long. Students spend more than half of their day on school and homework, without time for any other activities. Homeworks begins very early on in most school districts, and children begin overworking themselves from then on. Alfie Kohn wrote, “Decades ago, the American Educational Research Association released this statement: ‘Whenever homework crowds out social experience, outdoor recreation, and creative activities, and whenever it usurps time that should be devoted to sleep, it is not meeting the basic needs of children and adolescents.’” Children and teenagers need to have a balance of social interactions, extracurriculars, and school. Since most of their week consists of school, it is unfair for homework to take up even more time. Students need sleep, a basic human need, and homework sends kids into overdrive ruling this out. Most adults are able to stop their work when they come home, yet this is not possible for students. The term “students” includes children about 4 years old to 18 years old. Overworking a child from an early age will not let them experience activities such as music, sports, art, etc. They will eventually continue this into their careers, and may become workaholics. Kids may develop social anxiety, or other mental health issues without having a balance of both school and other social activities. Extracurriculars help children dive into different worlds, and venture out into different concepts. It is unhealthy to deprive these students of sleep and social events, by giving them tons of homework, in addition to an average 6.64 hour school day (nces.ed.gov). 

Though homework holds many detrimental effects on students, there is a widely accepted assumption that it benefits a student’s academic performance. The article “The Benefits of Having Homework” reads,“Setting homework and assignments extends the student’s study beyond what they learn in school and allows for a wider and deeper understanding of the topic. With homework, school hours are also put to good use in which teachers can spend their time teaching well instead of giving the students class work to do, and students can avoid distractions from others when they attempt their work at home.” Knoji.com explains how homework allows students to dive deeper into academic topics and practice more. Most of the work will then be done at home, while teachers can use class time to teach the overall topic and answer questions. Rather than facing distractions from classmates, this website describes how doing the work at home will prevent this, and allow children to focus more on their studies. Yet, spending hours on homework and building up so much stress for proposed academic benefits may not be worth it. Particularly, “In a study of high schoolers conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), researchers concluded that ‘after around four hours of homework per week, the additional time invested in homework has a negligible impact on performance.’” Though homework may leave an impact on a student’s grades, it does not make up for the valuable time they have lost. Students are meant to prioritize their studies, but that does not mean they should not have fun. Having them spend most of their days on schoolwork, just to receive a miniscule improvement in grades is beyond unfair. Knoji.com tries to prove that the extra practice will help improve grades and understanding of the topics, but this will only work if a student has interest in the subject. As reasoned before, too much homework will eventually burn out the child’s interest for school. 

Finally, using evidence from the articles “Down With Homework” by Alfie Kohn, “Why I Think All Schools Should Abolish Homework” by Vicki Abeles, “Education Inequity: Homework and its Negative Impacts on Kids” by Joseph Lathan, and “The Benefits of Having Homework” by Knogi.com, it may be concluded that the stress and negative impact on mental health that students face from homework will never be worth it, and that it should be banned. Schools should understand how students are feeling, and how they need regular breaks from the non-stop workload. They cannot pile up mandatory, extra work for children and teenagers, and rather should ban homework world-wide. Imagine spending a whole day of school doing work, to come back home and face hours more of it. It is unfair, and unjust to make children work around-the-clock, similar to lawyers and doctors, from such an early age. This won’t teach them time-management, responsibility, or even self-discipline. It will rather make them lose their interest in learning, and not enjoy their limited time as children.

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Debate on Homework Should be Abolished [In Favour and Against]

Homework, a task students complete outside of school hours, sparks a widespread debate. Many argue it should be abolished. Today, with evolving educational methods, the relevance of homework is a hot topic. Its impact on students’ well-being and learning experience is under scrutiny.

Arguments in Favour Of Homework Should be Abolished

Argument 1: positive effects of abolishing homework on student mental health.

Homework can sometimes feel like a never-ending cycle of stress and pressure for students. Imagine a world where students could focus on learning in the classroom without the looming burden of homework hanging over their heads. Abolishing homework could have a profoundly positive impact on student mental health.

One primary reason why abolishing homework would benefit students’ mental health is the reduction of stress and anxiety. Students often feel overwhelmed by the amount of homework they have to complete, leading to high levels of stress that can affect their overall well-being. By removing this extra pressure, students would have more time to relax, unwind, and engage in activities that bring them joy.

Moreover, abolishing homework can improve students’ sleep quality. Many students stay up late trying to finish assignments, sacrificing valuable hours of sleep in the process. Sleep is essential for mental health, and getting enough rest allows students to focus better in school and feel more refreshed and energized.

Additionally, abolishing homework can help students maintain a healthier work-life balance. Students deserve time to pursue their interests, spend time with family and friends, and engage in extracurricular activities. Without the burden of homework, students would have more opportunities to explore their passions and develop a well-rounded lifestyle.

Furthermore, abolishing homework can enhance students’ confidence and self-esteem. When students are constantly struggling to complete assignments, it can take a toll on their belief in their abilities. By eliminating homework, students can feel more confident in their academic skills and approach learning with a positive attitude.

In conclusion, abolishing homework could be a significant step towards promoting better mental health among students. By reducing stress, improving sleep quality, fostering a healthier work-life balance, and boosting confidence, students can thrive academically and emotionally in a homework-free environment.

Argument 2: Fostering Family Bonding and Social Skills Through the Abolition of Homework

When homework is abolished, families have more opportunities to bond and connect with each other. Instead of being engrossed in individual tasks, students and their families can engage in shared activities like cooking together, playing games, or simply talking about their day. These moments of togetherness can strengthen family relationships and create lasting memories that may not have been possible if homework were taking up all the time.

Furthermore, abolishing homework can also help students develop important social skills. Without the burden of homework, students have more time to interact with their siblings, parents, and even neighbors. These interactions allow them to practice communication, empathy, and teamwork in a real-world setting. Through conversations and activities with family members, students can learn how to express themselves effectively, resolve conflicts peacefully, and understand different perspectives.

In addition, by abolishing homework, schools can encourage students to participate in community activities and events. Students can join clubs, sports teams, or volunteer organizations, fostering a sense of belonging and social responsibility. These extracurricular activities not only provide opportunities for students to make new friends but also help them develop leadership skills, teamwork, and resilience.

In conclusion, abolishing homework can have a positive impact on fostering family bonding and social skills among students. By prioritizing quality time with family members and engaging in social activities outside of school, students can develop stronger relationships, communication skills, and a sense of community. Ultimately, by promoting these aspects, schools can contribute to the holistic development of students and prepare them for success in both their personal and professional lives.

Arguments Against Of Homework Should be Abolished

Argument 1: detrimental impact on academic performance and learning retention.

Homework can be a source of stress and anxiety for many students. It takes away precious time that could be spent on other activities like hobbies, sports, or spending time with family and friends. This burden of homework can lead to students feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, affecting their overall well-being and mental health.

Furthermore, the pressure to complete homework assignments can sometimes result in students rushing through their work just to meet deadlines. This rush to finish tasks can compromise the quality of their learning and understanding of the material. Instead of deeply engaging with the subject matter, students may simply focus on completing the assignment quickly, leading to surface-level learning that is quickly forgotten.

Research has shown that excessive homework can actually have a negative impact on academic performance. When students are overloaded with homework, they may struggle to retain the information they are trying to learn. This can result in lower test scores and a lack of true mastery of the material. Without sufficient time to review and consolidate what they have learned in class, students may find themselves falling behind academically.

Moreover, the stress and pressure associated with homework can create a barrier to effective learning. Students may feel demotivated and disengaged from their studies when faced with an overwhelming amount of homework to complete. This can hinder their ability to develop a genuine interest in the subjects they are studying and can lead to a lack of enthusiasm for learning.

In conclusion, the detrimental impact of homework on academic performance and learning retention is a significant concern that should not be overlooked. By abolishing homework, we can create a more balanced and holistic approach to education that prioritizes student well-being and genuine understanding of the material.

Argument 2: Loss of Individual Accountability and Work Ethic

Homework can sometimes lead to a loss of individual accountability and work ethic among students. When homework is assigned, some students may rely on others to complete it for them, instead of taking responsibility for their own learning. This can create a habit of dependency, where students do not develop the skills needed to work independently and take ownership of their education.

Additionally, when students are given homework tasks that they do not understand, it can be demotivating and lead to a lack of effort in completing the assignments. This lack of motivation can hinder the development of a strong work ethic, as students may not see the value in putting in the effort to complete tasks that they perceive as irrelevant or too challenging.

Moreover, the pressure to complete homework assignments on time can sometimes cause students to prioritize speed over quality. This can result in rushed and incomplete work, which does not foster a sense of pride in one’s accomplishments or encourage students to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits.

Furthermore, when students are burdened with excessive amounts of homework, it can take away from valuable time that could be spent engaging in other activities that promote personal growth and development. Without the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, hobbies, or simply relax and recharge, students may struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

In conclusion, the practice of assigning homework can inadvertently contribute to a loss of individual accountability and work ethic among students. By abolishing homework, we can create a learning environment that encourages students to take ownership of their education, develop a strong work ethic, and prioritize meaningful learning experiences over rote tasks.

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Debate: Should Homework be Abolished? Essay

Example 1: Supporting Arguments: Homework Should be Abolished

Example 2: supporting arguments: homework should be abolished, example 3: opposing arguments: homework should not be abolished, example 4: opposing arguments: homework should not be abolished.

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No More Homework: 12 Reasons We Should Get Rid of It Completely

Last Updated: February 16, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Finn Kobler . Finn Kobler graduated from USC in 2022 with a BFA in Writing for Screen/Television. He is a two-time California State Champion and record holder in Original Prose/Poetry, a 2018 finalist for the Los Angeles Youth Poet Laureate, and he's written micro-budget films that have been screened in over 150 theaters nationwide. Growing up, Finn spent every summer helping his family's nonprofit arts program, Showdown Stage Company, empower people through accessible media. He hopes to continue that mission with his writing at wikiHow. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 123,604 times. Learn more...

The amount of homework students are given has increased dramatically in the 21st century, which has sparked countless debates over homework’s overall value. While some have been adamant that homework is an essential part of a good education, it’s been proven that too much homework negatively affects students’ mood, classroom performance, and overall well-being. In addition, a heavy homework load can stress families and teachers. Here are 12 reasons why homework should be banned (or at least heavily reduced).

School is already a full-time job.

• For years, teachers have followed the “10-minute rule” giving students roughly 10 minutes of homework per grade level. However, recent studies have shown students are completing 3+ hours of homework a night well before their senior years even begin. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source

Homework negatively affects students’ health.

Homework interferes with student’s opportunities to socialize.

Homework hinders students’ chances to learn new things.

Homework lowers students’ enthusiasm for school.

Homework can lower academic performance.

Homework cuts into family time.

Homework is stressful for teachers.

Homework is often irrelevant and punitive.

• There are even studies that have shown homework in primary school has no correlation with classroom performance whatsoever. [9] X Research source

Homework encourages cheating.

Homework is inequitable.

Other countries have banned homework with great results.

• There are even some U.S. schools that have adopted this approach with success. [13] X Research source

Community Q&A

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• ↑ https://www.edutopia.org/no-proven-benefits
• ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2016/03/homework
• ↑ https://healthier.stanfordchildrens.org/en/health-hazards-homework/
• ↑ https://teensneedsleep.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/galloway-nonacademic-effects-of-homework-in-privileged-high-performing-high-schools.pdf
• ↑ https://time.com/4466390/homework-debate-research/
• ↑ https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00220485.2022.2075506?role=tab&scroll=top&needAccess=true&journalCode=vece20
• ↑ https://kappanonline.org/teacher-stress-balancing-demands-resources-mccarthy/
• ↑ https://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/ct-life-homework-pros-cons-20180807-story.html
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6294446/
• ↑ https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2016/06/homework-inequality-parents-schedules-grades/485174/
• ↑ https://www.bbc.com/news/education-37716005
• ↑ https://www.wsj.com/articles/no-homework-its-the-new-thing-in-u-s-schools-11544610600

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Home — Essay Samples — Education — Homework — Reasons Why Homework Should Not Be Banned

Reasons Why Homework Should not Be Banned

• Categories: Education System Homework

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Words: 1205 |

Published: Apr 29, 2022

Words: 1205 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, why homework should not be banned, homework is not a burden, works cited.

• Basas, B. (2018). Homework should not be seen as a burden but as an avenue to instill discipline and responsibility among learners. Manila Bulletin.
• Department of Education (DepEd). (2018). No Homework Policy for Public Elementary Schools and Student in DepEd Memorandum No. 392.
• Gonzales, N. (2019). Homework debate: Too much, too little or busy work? U.S. News & World Report.
• Kohn, A. (2006). The Homework Myth: Why Our Kids Get Too Much of a Bad Thing. Da Capo Press.
• Loveless, T. (2021). Homework in America. Brown Center Chalkboard.
• Muniz, B. (2020). Homework: Is It Beneficial or Detrimental to Student Performance? The Education Review, 6(2), 31-45.
• National Education Association. (n.d.). Research Spotlight on Homework.
• Pomerantz, E. M., & Moorman, E. A. (2012). Parents' involvement in children's schooling: Longitudinal effects on academic outcomes. Journal of Educational Psychology, 104(3), 820-832.
• Trautwein, U., & Köller, O. (2003). The relationship between homework and achievement—Still much of a mystery. Educational Psychology Review, 15(2), 115-145.
• Xu, J. (2010). Homework completion and academic achievement : A longitudinal analysis of parental influence. Journal of Family Issues, 31(11), 1518-1539.

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• Arts & Humanities

Should Homework Be Abolished?

26 Jul 2022

• Arts & Humanities

Format: MLA

Academic level: College

Paper type: Research Paper

Words: 1454

Downloads: 0

Atwater, in his article Top 10 Reasons Homework should be Banned, gives an example of a sixteen-year-old student from Italy who was asked to write a critique of an English poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. The stated poem was written in archaic English which the student could barely understand. Explaining a poem that one has to make reference of most of the words used makes it really mentally exhausting and at the end of it all the student could barely remember what the poem was about. This is also applicable to a student who lives in a neighborhood where there is a lot of violence. The student in question will struggle to understand the heavy terms and still try their best not to get distracted by the chaos outside their home. Homework can be such a tasking task that has sparked a lot of debate. 

It is because examples such as those stated above that homework should be abolished. Students spend hours in school attending classes and doing their best to be attentive and focused in all their classes. Many of them cringe at the mention of homework and many more disagree with it. This essay seeks to highlight reasons that justify the abolishment of homework in learning institutions. 

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Homework should be abolished because it deprives students the ability to develop their other skills (Costley, 3). Hours and hours of assignments from the various subjects that students take do not allow them to have any free time after school hours. Students should be given an opportunity to focus on co-curricular activities and their passions at a tender age. Those who love sports should be allowed to develop their sporting skills because today there are sportspersons who are reaping the benefits of developing their sporting skills as they earn millions of dollars doing what they love. Individuals who are gifted in arts such as music and acting are also benefiting from pursuing their passions. Spending hours in school and more hours doing homework does not give students ample time to focus on other skills since they are worn out at the end of the day and eventually the week. 

Homework should be done away with because it eats on family time. Parents or guardians need time to interact with their children every day. Spending time together strengthens the bonds between family members. Some of the effects of spending quality time together include better grades, minimized substance abuse, improved social competence and mental health (Bowen, 1). According to Houston ISD (12), not assigning homework to students give parents time to have dinner together, read and play outside as a family. Homework reduces precious time with the family and limits the freedom that children have. This freedom will give them an opportunity to learn life-skills outside their classrooms (13). 

Homework is considered a chore that urges learners to believe that school is disengaging and boring (Gatens). Most students do not enjoy homework and many find it stressful and a wastage of time. It is because of this reason that some students will wait until the last minute and copy the answers from their friends (Atwater). Others will find fellow students who may be willing to earn a little money from doing the homework. It encourages dishonesty and procrastination. Most students do not take their homework seriously which will result in minimal or no improvement in their studies. Some will feel like homework is a form of slavery. If it is not done well, the student will have lower grades. If not done at all, there will be a punishment as a consequence. 

Teachers who are not able to cover the whole curriculum take advantage of homework (Atwater). Some of them will request students to read and summarize an entire topic or subtopic that they will not be able to teach. This is especially disadvantageous to students who are slow learners and need a tutor to explain concepts in order for them to understand. They will feel stretched and overworked beyond their abilities. This will lead to no academic benefit (Abeles). Students who will copy the summaries from their fellow students will altogether not understand the topic. Teachers should take time and organize themselves so that they can avoid telling students to teach themselves when it comes to certain topics. 

Homework favors specific groups of students because not all students live in environments that are conducive for them to do homework (Atwater). Students who live in poor backgrounds where they do not have constant electricity will have a hard time trying to do their homework. Those from violent neighborhoods will struggle with focusing on their assignments. Students whose parents are not well learned will not have anyone to help them understand the course content in case they get stuck. Those with limited resources such as books or a steady presence of the internet in their houses will suffer more. Some students come from large families and noisy neighborhoods which will distract students. Students should be allowed to do all their academic learning at school so that the playing field is equalized. In case of any reading at home, it will be out of their own volition. 

Homework is also hectic for teachers. Teachers have to spend hours grading the assignments. The abolishing of homework will improve the lives of teachers as well. They will not be forced to carry assignments home as well for grading. This will create time for them to engage in other activities. It can cause stress to the teachers because it is painfully repetitive to mark a minimum of thirty assignments per class per subject. It is even worse if the assignment is handwritten and the teacher is struggling to read the handwriting (Atwater). 

Homework affects the health of students (Atwater). Children are likely to suffer from stress and health-related symptoms because homework causes additional stress (Costley, 3). Their sleeping patterns will also be affected because they spend long hours doing their assignments and very few hours sleeping. This could lead to insomnia among students. This affects their concentration in class as they will be struggling to stay awake rather than grasping concepts. Homework should be abolished because the health of students is at stake. Their emotional, mental (Houston ISD, 13) and physical health is crucial in their development and should not be affected negatively. Students take long hours in a sitting position which can lead to back problems. Others will suffer from migraines during to stress and many other who use laptops and mobile phones to research and do their homework may develop eye problems. These are issues that children should not be subjected to at an early age. They should live a healthy life. 

In spite of the negative aspects of homework, there are benefits to having students do their homework. According to Houston ISD (16), homework are linked to better results. Students who take homework seriously are able to benefit from it. They are able to revise what they learned in school and even research more on it. The other benefits of doing homework include the inculcating of a sense of responsibility in the lives of students. They are able to ensure they complete their work and that it is well done. It also teaches them how to manage their time. Children are able to organize themselves and ensure that they create time for homework, chores, playing and socializing with family and friends. They are able to also learn perseverance. This is because, with the workload that they have, perseverance is inculcated in them (20). 

Homework can be beneficial to students if it is done in the right manner. Homework given should not add stress to the children. The amount of work given should also be reasonable and manageable for them. It is essential that homework improves the attitude of students towards school and towards the particular subjects. The positive attitude will make the students more receptive to school work and will inculcate good virtues such as honesty and integrity where students do not have to copy from one another but will work hard to earn their grades. 

Homework should be abolished. This is because once it is abolished, the attitude of teachers and students towards school will become more positive. Students and teachers will be able to maximize their time and use if effectively. They will be able to become better versions of themselves. Children will be able to grow and develop without any negative effects and positively interacting with their friends and family. Their health will be better and their view of life will change. They should also be encouraged to focus in class because what they learn in school is more important compared to the homework they do. In school, they are able to ask questions, discuss with their peers and learn from one another. They will be able to value the time spent in school more because it will be dedicated to learning. The negative effects outweigh the positive effects of homework. If put to a vote, most teachers, parents, and children will vote for the abolishment of homework. 

Works Cited 

Abeles, Vicky. Why I Think All Schools Should Abolish Homework, (2017). Time. Retrieved from http://www.time.com 

Atwater, James. Top 10 Reasons Homework Should Be Banned. Retrieved from https://www.listland.com 

Bowen, Anne. The Importance of Family Quality Time for Families and Children with Special Health Care Needs. Wyoming Family to Family Health Information Center, (2013).p 1. Retrieved from http://www.uwyo.edu/wind/f2f 

Costley, Kevin, C. Does Homework Really Improve Achievement? Arkansas Tech University. 

Gatens, Brian. Don’t Abolish Homework: Just Make Sure It’s Worthwhile. Concordia University – Portland. Retrieved from https://education.cu-portland.edu 

Houston ISD. Novice Debate Resource Packet. (2016) Retrieved from https://www.houston.org 

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Guest Essay

You Don’t Have to Take Every Tax Deduction, and You Shouldn’t

By Matthew Desmond

Mr. Desmond, a sociologist at Princeton, is the director of its Eviction Lab and the author of “ Poverty, by America ” and “ Evicted .”

Alejandro Narváez is OK taking less. He hires only contractors who pay their workers a living wage, even if that means a larger bill. A Seattle-based dentist, he’s promoted cost-effective practices to expand dental care to the underserved, even if those practices cut into his bottom line. And when it comes to paying taxes, he forgoes many deductions afforded him.

For much of Mr. Narváez’s life, money was tight. When he began his practice, he made $30,000 a year, out of which a large chunk went to paying off student loans. But today, Mr. Narváez and his wife, a retired elementary school principal, live comfortably. Last year, they earned approximately $550,000 and paid roughly $155,000 in federal income taxes. Upon seeing those figures, Mr. Narváez’s financial adviser told his client he was overpaying and introduced him to an accountant.

But after hearing the accountant’s spiel, Mr. Narváez politely declined his offer, filing his taxes with TurboTax, not to save money but to lose it. “I see it as my responsibility to pay my fair share of taxes,” Mr. Narváez, who is 70, told me. “I have so many opportunities to reduce my taxes, but I choose not to.”

Tax season is upon us, a time to gripe, moan, procrastinate, file for extensions and salve the pain with dark humor. (Mark Twain once joked that the difference between a taxidermist and a tax collector is that the former takes only your skin.) But this time of year also provides us the opportunity to ask ourselves: Is it ethical to take tax breaks that primarily make the rich richer?

Yes, tax breaks benefit the billionaire class, which has the lowest effective tax rate in the country. And yes, they benefit large corporations, many of which pay no federal income tax. The outrageous tax shenanigans of the ultrawealthy have deservedly drawn the ire of the American public, further aggravated by congressional inertia on the matter.

But we should recognize that tax breaks also prop up the wealth of millions of affluent Americans who take advantage of exemptions that are very hard, perhaps impossibly hard, to defend on either practical or moral grounds.

Last year, tax breaks for dividends and capital gains — profits from the sale of assets, like stocks or artwork, which are taxed at lower rates than other sources of income — cost the government an estimated $153 billion. In 2022, 92 percent of that benefit went to households making $200,000 or more, and 73 percent went to those with incomes over $1 million.

Inheritance explains more than 60 percent of wealth inequality nationwide, a recent study found, but U.S. law allows wealth to be passed onto heirs almost tax-free. Let’s say you buy $1,000 of stock that grows in value to $49,999 over the course of your lifetime; then you pass it on to your children when you die. If your kids turn around and sell the stock the next day, when it is valued at $50,000, they will owe taxes only on the $1 of growth that happened when the stock was in their possession.

All told, roughly half of all major income tax expenditures — provisions that exclude or reduce income for tax purposes, resulting in significant lost revenue for the government — flow to households in the top 20 percent of the income distribution. Annually, that amounts to $500 billion transferred to America’s richest families, money that could have been used to build more affordable housing, deepen investments in public education, cut child poverty, help close the Black-white wealth gap or even make sure all of us had access to a dentist.

The biggest beneficiaries of tax breaks are white. Consider the mortgage-interest deduction, which results in $25 billion in lost revenue each year, a figure that is expected to exceed $100 billion by 2027, owing to the expiration of provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that President Donald Trump signed into law in 2017. Roughly 84 percent of the funds distributed by the mortgage-interest deduction flow to white households. Black households claim 4 percent.

White families also enjoy 90 percent of the benefits from qualified business income deductions, which deprived the federal government of roughly $50 billion last year, as well as 92 percent of the benefits from capital gains deductions.

Many of us are aware that the more money the country dedicates to subsidizing private affluence, the less it has to invest in the public good. And yet, year after year, well-off Americans, including those ostensibly committed to fairness and equality, take large tax deductions anyway. Besides the occasional statement from liberal elites asking to be taxed more, many of the biggest beneficiaries of the government’s largess have done very little to bring about fair tax reform.

Why do we keep waiting for Congress to act when we could effectively tax ourselves more by following Mr. Narváez’s example and refusing to take some deductions?

Of course, the government can direct extra revenue to all sorts of things, choosing to make more bombs instead of feeding the hungry. So would it be better to donate our tax deductions to worthy causes instead of forgoing them?

My family has struggled with this question. For years, I have criticized the mortgage-interest deduction, which, by inflating home prices, serves as an obstacle , not an on ramp, to homeownership. In theory, nearly all mortgaged homeowners are eligible for this benefit. In practice, it’s primarily a windfall for the wealthy. Last year, homeowners with annual family incomes below $30,000 received $22 million through the mortgage-interest deduction. Those with annual incomes above $200,000 took home 800 times that amount: a whopping $17.6 billion.

My family qualifies for this ridiculous deduction. But we don’t want it. What we want is to live in a country where fewer public dollars flow to stable homeowners and more flow to renting families crushed by the high cost of housing. So we’ve decided to create that society in miniature form, and with full recognition that we have the privilege of doing so, by donating what we receive from the mortgage-interest deduction to affordable housing initiatives on top of our regular giving.

In an ideal world, there would be no mortgage-interest deduction, no capital gains loophole, no $1 trillion a year lost in unpaid taxes, and the nation’s bolstered revenue streams would be directed at opportunity-expanding initiatives determined by representative democracy. But we have inherited a world of entrenched inequality and poverty. In this world, I honestly don’t know if it’s better to donate tax deductions or, like Mr. Narváez, refuse them outright. I only know that it feels unfair to keep it all for ourselves.

I often overhear liberals deriding individual acts like these because what is really needed is structural change. But I’m not talking about tossing a few dollars into the collection plate. I’m talking about a coordinated effort to redirect hundreds of billions of dollars from the upper classes to struggling families.

Arguing exclusively for systematic reform by mocking individual acts of altruism strikes me as a great way to get neither. In fact, it seems like a pretty convenient strategy rich liberals can deploy to justify all the ways the government guards their fortunes.

If liberalism is just talk — talk of integration while resisting affordable housing in our neighborhoods; talk of exploitative companies while investing in them in our retirement portfolios; talk of expanding the social safety net while depriving the government’s ability to do so by shielding tax cuts for the rich — is it really a liberalism worthy of the name?

I believe every American should call for programs aimed at abolishing poverty funded by fair tax reform, especially legislation that ensures people and corporations worth billions pay up. But prosperous Americans can do something else as well. They can send Washington a clear message that they would support progressive tax reform by enacting such reforms in their own lives.

Public policy often follows private displays of sacrifice. And besides, individual acts can quickly become political ones if enough of us pitch in, creating a movement that gathers force to pressure lawmakers to act.

Imagine a campaign involving millions of Americans who donated their tax breaks to community organizers or direct service providers — or refused to claim them at all — and persuaded their friends to do likewise. Imagine those taxpayers asking their senators and representatives to end nonsensical deductions and redirect the extra revenue to programs that benefited the poor. Imagine if we all came to view tax breaks not as entitlements but as money that is not rightfully ours.

Matthew Desmond ( @just_shelter ) is a sociologist at Princeton, where he is the director of the Eviction Lab, and the author of “ Poverty, by America ” and “ Evicted : Poverty and Profit in the American City.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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