questions to ask students about homework

50 Learning Reflection Questions For Students

Were you an active or a passive learner? Of what you learned today, what are you most comfortable with and what is still ‘iffy’?

Reflection Questions To Improve Learning

by Terry Heick

A few years ago, I wrote about Types of Learning Journals and reflection was a part of this thinking.

I’ve also shared a small collection of basic reflective questions in the past that could be used as a tweet or other social media post.

Now, for an updated post, I’ve collected many of these questions into a single post that you can sift through and hopefully find something you can use in your classroom tomorrow. Some are questions while others are question stems that can be used to guide reflection in specific lessons or scenarios where unique language or ideas are needed.

See also 12 Authentic Starting Points For Learning

Reflection Questions For Learning

1. What do you remember about what you learned today? Write down as many things as you can in 30/60/90 seconds.

2. Of what you remember, what seemed to be the most important ideas? Write down 3-5 things in bullet-point format.

3. What was your role in the learning process today? Did you find any new information? Interpret it? Attempt to ‘remember’ it? Complete a task? Listen? Watch? Skim? Try? Combine? Consider? Evaluate? Calculate? List? Describe? Problem solve? Recall? Create?

4. Were you an active or a passive learner? Did the learning activity allow (or force) you to be one or the other (active versus passive)?

5. What did you notice others doing during today’s lesson? Include other students, the teacher, etc. Infer cognitive behaviors (what they were doing ‘in their minds’) and listing physical and observable behaviors.

Metacognitive Questions For Learning

6. When were you at your best today?

7. What opportunities did you have today? Which were worthy of your attention, energy, or best thinking? Did you take them?

8. What did you assume about today’s learning before we started? How did that affect your learning (for better or for worse)?

9. What was your mindset before, during, and after the lesson?

10. What are you sure you understand about _____?

11. What do you think you might understand about _____?

12. What are you sure you misunderstand about _____? What is the most likely source of the confusion?

Nature Of Knowledge Reflective Questions

13. What do you suspect that you might misunderstand about ____?

14. What is the difference between misunderstanding and not yet knowing ?

15. What do you already know that you can use to think about or learn _____?

16. How do you know that you understand _____?

17. How do you know that you don’t understand ______?

18. How did you respond when struggled with today (if you did)?

19. What did you find most surprising about _____?

20. How did your understanding of _______ change today?

21. Of what you learned, how much of it was new, and how much of it have you seen before?

22. What about _____ makes you curious?

23. How is ____ similar to _____?

24. How does what you learned relate to what you already knew?

25. So? So What? What now? (Summarize what you learned, roughly explain its significance, and estimate what you might/could/should do next in response.)

Bonus: Consider the ‘form’ of learning you used . What other forms could have been used and what would effect might the use of those other forms have had on your learning? Think of sitting and listening versus standing and speaking. Think working alone versus working with others or watching a video versus reading a book versus listening to a podcast. How might the nature of what you learn (the topic or skill or concept being learned) dictate the ideal learning form?

Put another way, how does the learning content and/or goal affect the best learning methods?

Learning Reflection Questions For Students

Also, I previously created questions students can ask themselves before, during, and after learning to improve their thinking, retention, and metacognition. A few highlights from the ‘after learning’ (which qualify them as reflective questions for learning) include:

1. How did that go?

What did I clearly learn? What might I have learned or practiced or improved my understanding of that may not be obvious?

What was most interesting? Least? How can I learn new things if I’m not ‘interested in’ what I’m learning? What do others do in these cases to learn?

What was clear, what was confusing, and what was somewhere in the middle? What do I still need help with? Who can I talk to about the lesson to review key ideas or clarify misunderstandings?

2. What seems most important about what was learned?

What seems less important and what seems more important about what was learned? Or is this something where what was learned doesn’t have a clear hierarchy?

After the lesson, is what seems most important different from how things seemed before and during the lesson? How and why?

3. What should I do with what I’ve learned and how should I respond to what I didn’t learn?

What should I do with what I learned and know? What will I be able to do with this–both now and if and when I improve my understanding of it?

Who should I ‘tell’ or share this with? Who would care and/or benefit the most?

4. What might we learn tomorrow Based on what we learned today?

Where does what we’re learning seem to be ‘heading’? What happens next when we’ve learned things like this in the past?

What could I learn about this tomorrow with help? By myself? What might someone who knows this better than I do ‘learn next’?

5. How have I been changed by what I’ve learned?

How do I feel about this content? Interested? Enthusiastic? Curious? Bored? Indifferent?

How else could I learn this–maybe better? How might I think of this learning in 40 days? 40 weeks? 40 months? 40 years?

More Questions To Reflect On Learning

1. What is the most important concept, skill, or ‘thing’  you learned today, and why do you think it stands out to you?

2. How can you apply what you learned today to your everyday life or future studies? Provide a specific example.

3. What part of the lesson or activity did you find most challenging, and how did you overcome that challenge?

4. Describe a moment during the lesson or activity when you felt confused or unsure. How did you resolve that confusion?

5. How did today’s lesson connect to something you already knew? Did it change or enhance your understanding in any way?

6. What questions do you still have about the topic, and where might you find the answers?

7. In what ways did today’s lesson or activity help you understand a real-world issue or problem?

8. Reflect on your participation today. How did you contribute to the lesson or activity, and what could you do differently next time to improve?

9. What feedback would you give the teacher about this lesson or activity? What worked well for you, and what could be improved or make things clearer, interesting, etc.

Powerful Questions To Help Students Reflect On Their Learning

Founder & Director of TeachThought

180+ Important Questions to Ask Students Every Class

Febriana Ramadhanya

As educators, incorporating questions into your daily teaching routine brings plenty of benefits to the classroom dynamic. Questions serve as effective tools to engage students , encourage participation, manage a classroom effectively , and assess their understanding of the material. By routinely asking students these questions, you create an environment where they can actively contribute, making the learning experience more interactive. This simple yet powerful approach fosters a culture of shared inquiry and collaborative exploration, making the educational journey more engaging for everyone involved.

In this article, you’ll find an extensive list of questions ( with a free downloadable PDF ) you can ask students throughout all stages of learning. Whether you need get-to-know-you questions when students come back to school , questions to ask seniors in high school before they graduate, or fun questions to ask students to make the classroom more exciting, you can read it all here!

Benefits of Asking Questions in Every Class

Fostering Active Participation

Coming up with encouraging questions to ask students creates a culture of engagement. Students become active participants, sharing thoughts and perspectives. This dynamic exchange stimulates critical thinking and cultivates a collaborative atmosphere among the students.

Assessing Comprehension

Strategic questions provide real-time feedback on student understanding. This allows educators to tailor teaching methods, ensuring a personalized learning experience. Regular assessment through questions ensures no student is left behind in the learning process.

Building Positive Relationships

Thoughtful questions strengthen the teacher-student bond. By valuing student opinions, educators create a positive and trusting learning environment. A strong teacher-student relationship is important for both academic success and overall well-being at school.

Enhancing Communication Skills & Confidence

Consistent exposure to questions enhances essential communication skills. Students learn to express ideas articulately and gain confidence in participating actively. These skills are crucial for academic success and also prepare them for future endeavors beyond the classroom.

Questions to Ask Students to Get to Know Them

Get-to-know-you questions are great icebreakers for students at the start of the day as part of their classroom routine . They can help build a positive and inclusive classroom environment in the new school year or throughout the teaching period.

• What is your favorite subject in school, and why?
• If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
• What is your favorite book or movie, and what do you love about it?
• Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of school?
• Who is someone you admire, and what qualities do you admire in them?
• What is your favorite type of music or favorite band?
• Are you a morning person or a night owl?
• If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
• What do you enjoy doing during your free time?
• What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?
• Do you have any pets, and what are their names?
• What are your goals for this school year?
• If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
• What is something unique or interesting about you that most people don’t know?
• Are you involved in any extracurricular activities or clubs?
• What career or job are you most interested in pursuing in the future?
• If you could invent something, what would it be and why?
• What is your favorite family tradition?
• If you could learn any new skill, what would it be?
• What type of learner do you think you are – visual, auditory, or kinesthetic?
• What kind of books or movies do you enjoy reading or watching for fun?
• What is your favorite holiday and how do you usually celebrate it?
• What are three words you would use to describe yourself?
• If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?
• If you could have any talent or skill instantly, what would it be?
• What is a goal you have for yourself outside of academics?
• What type of food could you eat every day and never get tired of?
• If you could witness any event in history, what would it be?
• What’s your favorite memory from your time in school so far?
• If you had a theme song for your life, what would it be?

Questions to Ask Students to Assess Their Prior Knowledge

These questions are tailored to assess your students’ existing understanding, laying the foundation for a personalized and effective learning journey.

• What are the fundamental principles of [topic]?
• Can you provide an overview of the key concepts covered in our recent lessons?
• How would you apply [specific concept] in a practical situation?
• Define [important term] and offer an example to illustrate its meaning.
• What steps would you take to solve [type of problem]?
• Compare and contrast [two relevant topics or ideas].
• Explain the cause-and-effect relationship between [two elements].
• Identify and explain the main theories or models in [academic field].
• How does [historical event] contribute to our understanding of [relevant aspect]?
• Provide examples of [category or type] in the context of [subject].
• What is the significance of [important event or discovery]?
• How does [author, scientist, historical figure] influence [subject]?
• Analyze the impact of [innovation, invention, or development] on [field].
• Explain the significance of [mathematical formula or equation].
• Can you recall the steps involved in [scientific method, historical process, etc.]?
• Discuss the different perspectives on [controversial issues].
• How do [cultural, social, or economic factors] influence [subject]?
• What connections can you draw between [historical period, scientific theory, etc.] and our present understanding?
• What are the implications of [scientific theory or discovery]?
• Discuss the applications of [concept] in real-world scenarios.
• What questions do you have that require further investigation or research?
• How would you adapt this knowledge for different contexts or audiences?
• Can you critique or analyze the arguments presented in [related text or source]?
• How does [concept] connect to the broader field of [subject]?
• Explain any challenges or limitations associated with [related topic or idea].

Questions to Ask Students to Encourage Critical Thinking

The following thought-provoking questions to ask students are crafted to stimulate deep thinking, foster analytical skills, and encourage students to explore diverse perspectives. These questions follow Bloom’s Taxonomy framework essential for building crucial learning behaviors.

• How might you solve this problem differently?
• Can you explain the reasoning behind your answer?
• What evidence supports your conclusion?
• How would you approach this situation from a different perspective?
• Can you identify any assumptions in the information provided?
• What questions do you have about this topic that require further exploration?
• How do you think the outcome would change if certain variables were altered?
• What are the implications of this concept in a real-world scenario?
• Can you predict the possible consequences of different choices?
• How would you prioritize these ideas or solutions?
• In what ways might this concept be applied to solve other problems?
• What alternative solutions can you propose for this challenge?
• How might different cultural perspectives influence our understanding of this issue?
• What connections can you draw between this topic and your personal experiences?
• Can you identify any patterns or trends in the data provided?
• How does this concept relate to what we’ve learned in previous lessons?
• What questions would you ask to gather more information on this topic?
• How might you explain this idea to someone who has never encountered it before?
• What are the ethical considerations in making this decision?
• How does this concept contribute to our broader understanding of the subject?
• Can you identify any cause-and-effect relationships in this scenario?
• How would you adapt this solution for a different audience or context?
• In what ways could this concept be applied to address current societal issues?
• Can you identify any logical fallacies in the argument presented?
• How might this theory be tested or experimented with to validate its validity?
• What questions do you have that require additional research or investigation?
• How does this information challenge or confirm your existing beliefs?
• Can you synthesize information from multiple sources to form a comprehensive understanding?

Questions to Ask Students to Promote Self-Reflection

The classroom is not just for learning the usual subjects. It’s also a safe space where students can develop their sense of self, and these questions can help them start reflecting on their own inner workings.

• What did you learn about yourself during the last school year?
• Can you recall a moment when you overcame a personal challenge? How did it impact you?
• How has your perspective on a particular subject or idea evolved over time?
• What goals have you set for yourself, and how have you progressed towards achieving them?
• Is there a mistake or failure you experienced that taught you a valuable lesson?
• How do you handle stress, and have your coping mechanisms changed?
• Can you identify a moment when your assumptions about something were challenged?
• What are your proudest achievements, and what do they say about you?
• Reflect on a time when you had to collaborate with others. What did you learn from the experience?
• How do you prioritize your time and tasks to maintain a healthy balance?
• Can you share a specific instance when you had to adapt to unexpected circumstances?
• Reflect on your communication style. How do you express yourself, and how has it evolved?
• Is there a skill or ability you once struggled with that you’ve since improved upon?
• How do you approach decision-making, and how has your decision-making process developed?
• Can you recall a moment when you had to step out of your comfort zone? What did you discover?
• Reflect on your relationships with classmates or friends. How have they influenced your growth?
• What extracurricular activities or hobbies bring you a sense of fulfillment?
• Has there been a significant change in your values or beliefs? What prompted this change?
• Consider a difficult choice you had to make. How did it shape your character?
• Reflect on a piece of feedback you received. How did you respond, and what did you learn?
• How do you approach setbacks or obstacles, and what strategies do you use to overcome them?
• Consider a book, movie, or piece of art that resonated with you. What elements impacted you the most?
• Reflect on your involvement in community service or volunteer work. How has it influenced your perspective?
• How do you set and adjust your academic or personal goals based on your reflections?
• Can you identify an area where you’ve demonstrated significant personal growth recently?

Questions of the Day for Preschool

Our preschool questions of the day are where curiosity meets fun. These engaging questions are designed to spark conversation and exploration in your preschool classroom.

• What is your favorite color today?
• Can you show me how you wiggle like a silly worm?
• If you were an animal, which one would you be and why?
• What’s your favorite thing to play with in the playground?
• Can you name something that makes you happy?
• What is your favorite fruit or vegetable?
• Can you share a story about your favorite toy?
• What do you like to do when it’s sunny outside?
• Can you think of a word that rhymes with your name?
• If you could be a character from a storybook, who would you be?
• What’s your favorite way to say hello to your friends?
• Can you count to [a specific number] for me?
• What’s your favorite bedtime story?
• What’s your favorite thing to eat for lunch?
• If you had a magic wand, what would you wish for?
• What’s your favorite thing to wear today?
• What’s your favorite animal sound?
• Can you tell me a word that describes how you’re feeling today?
• What’s your favorite game to play with your friends?
• Can you name something that’s the same color as your shoes?
• If you could have any pet in the world, what would it be?
• Can you share something kind you did for someone today?

Questions to Ask Seniors in High School

Senior year in high school is one of the most important periods in a student’s academic journey. These questions aim to capture the memories and future aspirations of your final-year students.

• What are your proudest achievements throughout high school?
• How would you describe your personal growth over the past four years?
• What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
• Can you reflect on a challenging moment and how you overcame it?
• What extracurricular activities have had the most impact on you?
• How has your perspective on education evolved during high school?
• What is a memorable lesson you’ve learned inside or outside the classroom?
• If you could relive one moment from high school, what would it be?
• What are your career aspirations, and how have they changed since freshman year?
• Can you share a favorite memory with your friends or classmates?
• What subject or class has been the most influential for you, and why?
• How have you balanced academics, extracurriculars, and personal life?
• Who has been the most influential teacher or mentor for you and why?
• What goals have you set for yourself beyond high school graduation?
• Can you share a funny or lighthearted moment from your high school journey?
• What is something you wish you had known as a freshman?
• How has technology impacted your high school experience?
• What legacy do you hope to leave behind at your high school?
• Can you reflect on a moment that challenged your values or beliefs?
• How have your friendships evolved since the beginning of high school?
• What traditions or events will you miss the most after graduation?
• How have you navigated the college application and decision-making process?
• What advice do you have for staying motivated during challenging times?
• How has high school prepared you for the next chapter of your life?
• What hobbies or interests have you developed during high school?
• Can you share a personal goal you’ve achieved during your time in high school?
• How do you envision your life five years from now?
• What will you miss most about high school?

Questions To Ask Students – Fun Edition!

This collection of fun questions to ask students is designed to infuse joy into the learning experience, fostering engagement and bringing a playful twist to classroom dynamics.

• If you could have any animal as a classroom pet, what would it be and why?
• What’s your favorite ice cream flavor, and could you invent a new flavor?
• If you could swap lives with a fictional character for a day, who would it be?
• What’s the silliest dance move you can come up with?
• If you could travel back in time, which era would you visit and why?
• What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
• What’s your go-to karaoke song, and can you sing a snippet for us?
• If you could create a new holiday, what would it celebrate, and how would you celebrate it?
• What’s the weirdest food combination you’ve ever tried and liked?
• If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
• If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
• If your pet could talk, what do you think they would say about you?
• What’s the most unusual talent you possess?
• If your life were a movie, what genre would it be, and who would play you?
• What’s your favorite joke or funny story to share?
• What’s your dream job, even if it’s something wacky or unconventional?
• If you could be any inanimate object for a day, what would it be and why?
• What’s your spirit animal, and how does it reflect your personality?
• If you could be invisible for a day, how would you use your newfound power?
• What’s the most interesting fact you know that might surprise others?
• If you could time travel to the future, what technology would you hope to find?
• What’s the funniest thing that happened to you recently?
• If you had a spaceship, where in the universe would you travel to?
• If you could bring any fictional character to life as your friend, who would it be?

Free “Questions to Ask Students” PDF for Download – Keep these questions at hand for easy everyday access!

Make your questions stand out with these 3 secret tips.

No matter how fun or thought-provoking your questions are, there’s a possibility that your questions will be met with crickets. We know how discouraging that can feel, so our teachers have tried and tested plenty of ways to liven up the classroom during these sessions.

Here are some recommended methods you can implement to your Q&A sessions more engaging: 

Tip #1 Encourage participation by picking random names

Not all students in the classroom have the same level of proactivity. For a productive Q&A session with your pupils, give the shy ones a little push by using a random name picker . Decide between an easy-to-use spinner wheel, random cards, or an auto-picker to select more than one student at once. With this tool, everyone can have a chance to participate.

Tip #2 Engage with Students Interactively

Breathe life into your lessons by turning these questions into an interactive experience! Move beyond simple questioning by incorporating interactive quizzes and quick polls to transform your classroom . These engaging strategies will not only boost student participation but also enhance their learning through active application.

Tip #3 Easily reward students with stars & badges

We know how important (and ridiculously fun) gamifying the classroom can be, so look for gamification apps or software that you can use to make learning more fun. Some of the gamification features that you can use to motivate students include awarding stars to those who answer your questions or creating a leaderboard to create a sense of friendly competition. These can surely elevate your daily Q&A sessions.

If these tips entice you, then we recommend trying ClassPoint out. ClassPoint is a go-to classroom engagement tool trusted by teachers worldwide that can be easily paired with your PowerPoint presentations.

And the best thing of all? You don’t even have to leave PowerPoint to do all of these tricks! Once you’ve downloaded ClassPoint, you can easily access all of its features while doing your PPT presentations. If this entices you, get started with our lesson manual and try it out for free! 

Final Thoughts

With this list of 180+ questions to ask your students every day, we hope that your classroom can be more lively than ever. These questions are not just conversation starters but gateways to fostering a dynamic and interactive learning environment. By incorporating these inquiries into your daily routine, you can cultivate a sense of curiosity, engagement, and open dialogue among your students.

As you explore these questions with your class, observe how they encourage critical thinking, promote self-expression, and contribute to a positive classroom culture. Use this resource so that each question can start meaningful discussions, creating an atmosphere where learning becomes a shared, vibrant experience for both you and your students.

About Febriana Ramadhanya

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Does Homework Really Help Students Learn?

A conversation with a Wheelock researcher, a BU student, and a fourth-grade teacher

“Quality homework is engaging and relevant to kids’ lives,” says Wheelock’s Janine Bempechat. “It gives them autonomy and engages them in the community and with their families. In some subjects, like math, worksheets can be very helpful. It has to do with the value of practicing over and over.” Photo by iStock/Glenn Cook Photography

Do your homework.

If only it were that simple.

Educators have debated the merits of homework since the late 19th century. In recent years, amid concerns of some parents and teachers that children are being stressed out by too much homework, things have only gotten more fraught.

“Homework is complicated,” says developmental psychologist Janine Bempechat, a Wheelock College of Education & Human Development clinical professor. The author of the essay “ The Case for (Quality) Homework—Why It Improves Learning and How Parents Can Help ” in the winter 2019 issue of Education Next , Bempechat has studied how the debate about homework is influencing teacher preparation, parent and student beliefs about learning, and school policies.

She worries especially about socioeconomically disadvantaged students from low-performing schools who, according to research by Bempechat and others, get little or no homework.

BU Today  sat down with Bempechat and Erin Bruce (Wheelock’17,’18), a new fourth-grade teacher at a suburban Boston school, and future teacher freshman Emma Ardizzone (Wheelock) to talk about what quality homework looks like, how it can help children learn, and how schools can equip teachers to design it, evaluate it, and facilitate parents’ role in it.

BU Today: Parents and educators who are against homework in elementary school say there is no research definitively linking it to academic performance for kids in the early grades. You’ve said that they’re missing the point.

Bempechat : I think teachers assign homework in elementary school as a way to help kids develop skills they’ll need when they’re older—to begin to instill a sense of responsibility and to learn planning and organizational skills. That’s what I think is the greatest value of homework—in cultivating beliefs about learning and skills associated with academic success. If we greatly reduce or eliminate homework in elementary school, we deprive kids and parents of opportunities to instill these important learning habits and skills.

We do know that beginning in late middle school, and continuing through high school, there is a strong and positive correlation between homework completion and academic success.

That’s what I think is the greatest value of homework—in cultivating beliefs about learning and skills associated with academic success.

You talk about the importance of quality homework. What is that?

Quality homework is engaging and relevant to kids’ lives. It gives them autonomy and engages them in the community and with their families. In some subjects, like math, worksheets can be very helpful. It has to do with the value of practicing over and over.

What are your concerns about homework and low-income children?

The argument that some people make—that homework “punishes the poor” because lower-income parents may not be as well-equipped as affluent parents to help their children with homework—is very troubling to me. There are no parents who don’t care about their children’s learning. Parents don’t actually have to help with homework completion in order for kids to do well. They can help in other ways—by helping children organize a study space, providing snacks, being there as a support, helping children work in groups with siblings or friends.

Isn’t the discussion about getting rid of homework happening mostly in affluent communities?

Yes, and the stories we hear of kids being stressed out from too much homework—four or five hours of homework a night—are real. That’s problematic for physical and mental health and overall well-being. But the research shows that higher-income students get a lot more homework than lower-income kids.

Teachers may not have as high expectations for lower-income children. Schools should bear responsibility for providing supports for kids to be able to get their homework done—after-school clubs, community support, peer group support. It does kids a disservice when our expectations are lower for them.

The conversation around homework is to some extent a social class and social justice issue. If we eliminate homework for all children because affluent children have too much, we’re really doing a disservice to low-income children. They need the challenge, and every student can rise to the challenge with enough supports in place.

What did you learn by studying how education schools are preparing future teachers to handle homework?

My colleague, Margarita Jimenez-Silva, at the University of California, Davis, School of Education, and I interviewed faculty members at education schools, as well as supervising teachers, to find out how students are being prepared. And it seemed that they weren’t. There didn’t seem to be any readings on the research, or conversations on what high-quality homework is and how to design it.

Erin, what kind of training did you get in handling homework?

Bruce : I had phenomenal professors at Wheelock, but homework just didn’t come up. I did lots of student teaching. I’ve been in classrooms where the teachers didn’t assign any homework, and I’ve been in rooms where they assigned hours of homework a night. But I never even considered homework as something that was my decision. I just thought it was something I’d pull out of a book and it’d be done.

I started giving homework on the first night of school this year. My first assignment was to go home and draw a picture of the room where you do your homework. I want to know if it’s at a table and if there are chairs around it and if mom’s cooking dinner while you’re doing homework.

The second night I asked them to talk to a grown-up about how are you going to be able to get your homework done during the week. The kids really enjoyed it. There’s a running joke that I’m teaching life skills.

Friday nights, I read all my kids’ responses to me on their homework from the week and it’s wonderful. They pour their hearts out. It’s like we’re having a conversation on my couch Friday night.

It matters to know that the teacher cares about you and that what you think matters to the teacher. Homework is a vehicle to connect home and school…for parents to know teachers are welcoming to them and their families.

Bempechat : I can’t imagine that most new teachers would have the intuition Erin had in designing homework the way she did.

Ardizzone : Conversations with kids about homework, feeling you’re being listened to—that’s such a big part of wanting to do homework….I grew up in Westchester County. It was a pretty demanding school district. My junior year English teacher—I loved her—she would give us feedback, have meetings with all of us. She’d say, “If you have any questions, if you have anything you want to talk about, you can talk to me, here are my office hours.” It felt like she actually cared.

Bempechat : It matters to know that the teacher cares about you and that what you think matters to the teacher. Homework is a vehicle to connect home and school…for parents to know teachers are welcoming to them and their families.

Ardizzone : But can’t it lead to parents being overbearing and too involved in their children’s lives as students?

Bempechat : There’s good help and there’s bad help. The bad help is what you’re describing—when parents hover inappropriately, when they micromanage, when they see their children confused and struggling and tell them what to do.

Good help is when parents recognize there’s a struggle going on and instead ask informative questions: “Where do you think you went wrong?” They give hints, or pointers, rather than saying, “You missed this,” or “You didn’t read that.”

Bruce : I hope something comes of this. I hope BU or Wheelock can think of some way to make this a more pressing issue. As a first-year teacher, it was not something I even thought about on the first day of school—until a kid raised his hand and said, “Do we have homework?” It would have been wonderful if I’d had a plan from day one.

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Sara Rimer A journalist for more than three decades, Sara Rimer worked at the Miami Herald , Washington Post and, for 26 years, the New York Times , where she was the New England bureau chief, and a national reporter covering education, aging, immigration, and other social justice issues. Her stories on the death penalty’s inequities were nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and cited in the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision outlawing the execution of people with intellectual disabilities. Her journalism honors include Columbia University’s Meyer Berger award for in-depth human interest reporting. She holds a BA degree in American Studies from the University of Michigan. Profile

She can be reached at [email protected] .

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There are 81 comments on Does Homework Really Help Students Learn?

Insightful! The values about homework in elementary schools are well aligned with my intuition as a parent.

when i finish my work i do my homework and i sometimes forget what to do because i did not get enough sleep

same omg it does not help me it is stressful and if I have it in more than one class I hate it.

Same I think my parent wants to help me but, she doesn’t care if I get bad grades so I just try my best and my grades are great.

I think that last question about Good help from parents is not know to all parents, we do as our parents did or how we best think it can be done, so maybe coaching parents or giving them resources on how to help with homework would be very beneficial for the parent on how to help and for the teacher to have consistency and improve homework results, and of course for the child. I do see how homework helps reaffirm the knowledge obtained in the classroom, I also have the ability to see progress and it is a time I share with my kids

The answer to the headline question is a no-brainer – a more pressing problem is why there is a difference in how students from different cultures succeed. Perfect example is the student population at BU – why is there a majority population of Asian students and only about 3% black students at BU? In fact at some universities there are law suits by Asians to stop discrimination and quotas against admitting Asian students because the real truth is that as a group they are demonstrating better qualifications for admittance, while at the same time there are quotas and reduced requirements for black students to boost their portion of the student population because as a group they do more poorly in meeting admissions standards – and it is not about the Benjamins. The real problem is that in our PC society no one has the gazuntas to explore this issue as it may reveal that all people are not created equal after all. Or is it just environmental cultural differences??????

I get you have a concern about the issue but that is not even what the point of this article is about. If you have an issue please take this to the site we have and only post your opinion about the actual topic

This is not at all what the article is talking about.

This literally has nothing to do with the article brought up. You should really take your opinions somewhere else before you speak about something that doesn’t make sense.

we have the same name

so they have the same name what of it?

lol you tell her

totally agree

What does that have to do with homework, that is not what the article talks about AT ALL.

Yes, I think homework plays an important role in the development of student life. Through homework, students have to face challenges on a daily basis and they try to solve them quickly.I am an intense online tutor at 24x7homeworkhelp and I give homework to my students at that level in which they handle it easily.

More than two-thirds of students said they used alcohol and drugs, primarily marijuana, to cope with stress.

You know what’s funny? I got this assignment to write an argument for homework about homework and this article was really helpful and understandable, and I also agree with this article’s point of view.

I also got the same task as you! I was looking for some good resources and I found this! I really found this article useful and easy to understand, just like you! ^^

i think that homework is the best thing that a child can have on the school because it help them with their thinking and memory.

I am a child myself and i think homework is a terrific pass time because i can’t play video games during the week. It also helps me set goals.

Homework is not harmful ,but it will if there is too much

I feel like, from a minors point of view that we shouldn’t get homework. Not only is the homework stressful, but it takes us away from relaxing and being social. For example, me and my friends was supposed to hang at the mall last week but we had to postpone it since we all had some sort of work to do. Our minds shouldn’t be focused on finishing an assignment that in realty, doesn’t matter. I completely understand that we should have homework. I have to write a paper on the unimportance of homework so thanks.

homework isn’t that bad

Are you a student? if not then i don’t really think you know how much and how severe todays homework really is

i am a student and i do not enjoy homework because i practice my sport 4 out of the five days we have school for 4 hours and that’s not even counting the commute time or the fact i still have to shower and eat dinner when i get home. its draining!

i totally agree with you. these people are such boomers

why just why

they do make a really good point, i think that there should be a limit though. hours and hours of homework can be really stressful, and the extra work isn’t making a difference to our learning, but i do believe homework should be optional and extra credit. that would make it for students to not have the leaning stress of a assignment and if you have a low grade you you can catch up.

Studies show that homework improves student achievement in terms of improved grades, test results, and the likelihood to attend college. Research published in the High School Journal indicates that students who spent between 31 and 90 minutes each day on homework “scored about 40 points higher on the SAT-Mathematics subtest than their peers, who reported spending no time on homework each day, on average.” On both standardized tests and grades, students in classes that were assigned homework outperformed 69% of students who didn’t have homework. A majority of studies on homework’s impact – 64% in one meta-study and 72% in another – showed that take home assignments were effective at improving academic achievement. Research by the Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA) concluded that increased homework led to better GPAs and higher probability of college attendance for high school boys. In fact, boys who attended college did more than three hours of additional homework per week in high school.

So how are your measuring student achievement? That’s the real question. The argument that doing homework is simply a tool for teaching responsibility isn’t enough for me. We can teach responsibility in a number of ways. Also the poor argument that parents don’t need to help with homework, and that students can do it on their own, is wishful thinking at best. It completely ignores neurodiverse students. Students in poverty aren’t magically going to find a space to do homework, a friend’s or siblings to help them do it, and snacks to eat. I feel like the author of this piece has never set foot in a classroom of students.

THIS. This article is pathetic coming from a university. So intellectually dishonest, refusing to address the havoc of capitalism and poverty plays on academic success in life. How can they in one sentence use poor kids in an argument and never once address that poor children have access to damn near 0 of the resources affluent kids have? Draw me a picture and let’s talk about feelings lmao what a joke is that gonna put food in their belly so they can have the calories to burn in order to use their brain to study? What about quiet their 7 other siblings that they share a single bedroom with for hours? Is it gonna force the single mom to magically be at home and at work at the same time to cook food while you study and be there to throw an encouraging word?

Also the “parents don’t need to be a parent and be able to guide their kid at all academically they just need to exist in the next room” is wild. Its one thing if a parent straight up is not equipped but to say kids can just figured it out is…. wow coming from an educator What’s next the teacher doesn’t need to teach cause the kid can just follow the packet and figure it out?

Well then get a tutor right? Oh wait you are poor only affluent kids can afford a tutor for their hours of homework a day were they on average have none of the worries a poor child does. Does this address that poor children are more likely to also suffer abuse and mental illness? Like mentioned what about kids that can’t learn or comprehend the forced standardized way? Just let em fail? These children regularly are not in “special education”(some of those are a joke in their own and full of neglect and abuse) programs cause most aren’t even acknowledged as having disabilities or disorders.

But yes all and all those pesky poor kids just aren’t being worked hard enough lol pretty sure poor children’s existence just in childhood is more work, stress, and responsibility alone than an affluent child’s entire life cycle. Love they never once talked about the quality of education in the classroom being so bad between the poor and affluent it can qualify as segregation, just basically blamed poor people for being lazy, good job capitalism for failing us once again!

why the hell?

you should feel bad for saying this, this article can be helpful for people who has to write a essay about it

This is more of a political rant than it is about homework

I know a teacher who has told his students their homework is to find something they are interested in, pursue it and then come share what they learn. The student responses are quite compelling. One girl taught herself German so she could talk to her grandfather. One boy did a research project on Nelson Mandela because the teacher had mentioned him in class. Another boy, a both on the autism spectrum, fixed his family’s computer. The list goes on. This is fourth grade. I think students are highly motivated to learn, when we step aside and encourage them.

The whole point of homework is to give the students a chance to use the material that they have been presented with in class. If they never have the opportunity to use that information, and discover that it is actually useful, it will be in one ear and out the other. As a science teacher, it is critical that the students are challenged to use the material they have been presented with, which gives them the opportunity to actually think about it rather than regurgitate “facts”. Well designed homework forces the student to think conceptually, as opposed to regurgitation, which is never a pretty sight

Wonderful discussion. and yes, homework helps in learning and building skills in students.

not true it just causes kids to stress

Homework can be both beneficial and unuseful, if you will. There are students who are gifted in all subjects in school and ones with disabilities. Why should the students who are gifted get the lucky break, whereas the people who have disabilities suffer? The people who were born with this “gift” go through school with ease whereas people with disabilities struggle with the work given to them. I speak from experience because I am one of those students: the ones with disabilities. Homework doesn’t benefit “us”, it only tears us down and put us in an abyss of confusion and stress and hopelessness because we can’t learn as fast as others. Or we can’t handle the amount of work given whereas the gifted students go through it with ease. It just brings us down and makes us feel lost; because no mater what, it feels like we are destined to fail. It feels like we weren’t “cut out” for success.

homework does help

here is the thing though, if a child is shoved in the face with a whole ton of homework that isn’t really even considered homework it is assignments, it’s not helpful. the teacher should make homework more of a fun learning experience rather than something that is dreaded

This article was wonderful, I am going to ask my teachers about extra, or at all giving homework.

I agree. Especially when you have homework before an exam. Which is distasteful as you’ll need that time to study. It doesn’t make any sense, nor does us doing homework really matters as It’s just facts thrown at us.

Homework is too severe and is just too much for students, schools need to decrease the amount of homework. When teachers assign homework they forget that the students have other classes that give them the same amount of homework each day. Students need to work on social skills and life skills.

I disagree.

Beyond achievement, proponents of homework argue that it can have many other beneficial effects. They claim it can help students develop good study habits so they are ready to grow as their cognitive capacities mature. It can help students recognize that learning can occur at home as well as at school. Homework can foster independent learning and responsible character traits. And it can give parents an opportunity to see what’s going on at school and let them express positive attitudes toward achievement.

Homework is helpful because homework helps us by teaching us how to learn a specific topic.

As a student myself, I can say that I have almost never gotten the full 9 hours of recommended sleep time, because of homework. (Now I’m writing an essay on it in the middle of the night D=)

I am a 10 year old kid doing a report about “Is homework good or bad” for homework before i was going to do homework is bad but the sources from this site changed my mind!

Homeowkr is god for stusenrs

I agree with hunter because homework can be so stressful especially with this whole covid thing no one has time for homework and every one just wants to get back to there normal lives it is especially stressful when you go on a 2 week vaca 3 weeks into the new school year and and then less then a week after you come back from the vaca you are out for over a month because of covid and you have no way to get the assignment done and turned in

As great as homework is said to be in the is article, I feel like the viewpoint of the students was left out. Every where I go on the internet researching about this topic it almost always has interviews from teachers, professors, and the like. However isn’t that a little biased? Of course teachers are going to be for homework, they’re not the ones that have to stay up past midnight completing the homework from not just one class, but all of them. I just feel like this site is one-sided and you should include what the students of today think of spending four hours every night completing 6-8 classes worth of work.

Are we talking about homework or practice? Those are two very different things and can result in different outcomes.

Homework is a graded assignment. I do not know of research showing the benefits of graded assignments going home.

Practice; however, can be extremely beneficial, especially if there is some sort of feedback (not a grade but feedback). That feedback can come from the teacher, another student or even an automated grading program.

As a former band director, I assigned daily practice. I never once thought it would be appropriate for me to require the students to turn in a recording of their practice for me to grade. Instead, I had in-class assignments/assessments that were graded and directly related to the practice assigned.

I would really like to read articles on “homework” that truly distinguish between the two.

oof i feel bad good luck!

thank you guys for the artical because I have to finish an assingment. yes i did cite it but just thanks

thx for the article guys.

Homework is good

I think homework is helpful AND harmful. Sometimes u can’t get sleep bc of homework but it helps u practice for school too so idk.

I agree with this Article. And does anyone know when this was published. I would like to know.

It was published FEb 19, 2019.

Studies have shown that homework improved student achievement in terms of improved grades, test results, and the likelihood to attend college.

i think homework can help kids but at the same time not help kids

This article is so out of touch with majority of homes it would be laughable if it wasn’t so incredibly sad.

There is no value to homework all it does is add stress to already stressed homes. Parents or adults magically having the time or energy to shepherd kids through homework is dome sort of 1950’s fantasy.

What lala land do these teachers live in?

Homework gives noting to the kid

Homework is Bad

homework is bad.

why do kids even have homework?

Comments are closed.

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Smart Classroom Management

A Simple, Effective Homework Plan For Teachers: Part 1

So for the next two weeks I’m going to outline a homework plan–four strategies this week, four the next–aimed at making homework a simple yet effective process.

Let’s get started.

Homework Strategies 1-4

The key to homework success is to eliminate all the obstacles—and excuses—that get in the way of students getting it done.

Add leverage and some delicately placed peer pressure to the mix, and not getting homework back from every student will be a rare occurrence.

Here is how to do it.

1. Assign what students already know.

Most teachers struggle with homework because they misunderstand the narrow purpose of homework, which is to practice what has already been learned. Meaning, you should only assign homework your students fully understand and are able to do by themselves.

Therefore, the skills needed to complete the evening’s homework must be thoroughly taught during the school day. If your students can’t prove to you that they’re able to do the work without assistance, then you shouldn’t assign it.

It isn’t fair to your students—or their parents—to have to sit at the dinner table trying to figure out what you should have taught them during the day.

2. Don’t involve parents.

Homework is an agreement between you and your students. Parents shouldn’t be involved. If parents want to sit with their child while he or she does the homework, great. But it shouldn’t be an expectation or a requirement of them. Otherwise, you hand students a ready-made excuse for not doing it.

You should tell parents at back-to-school night, “I got it covered. If ever your child doesn’t understand the homework, it’s on me. Just send me a note and I’ll take care of it.”

Holding yourself accountable is not only a reminder that your lessons need to be spot on, but parents will love you for it and be more likely to make sure homework gets done every night. And for negligent parents? It’s best for their children in particular to make homework a teacher/student-only agreement.

3. Review and then ask one important question.

Set aside a few minutes before the end of the school day to review the assigned homework. Have your students pull out the work, allow them to ask final clarifying questions, and have them check to make sure they have the materials they need.

And then ask one important question: “Is there anyone, for any reason, who will not be able to turn in their homework in the morning? I want to know now rather than find out about it in the morning.”

There are two reasons for this question.

First, the more leverage you have with students, and the more they admire and respect you , the more they’ll hate disappointing you. This alone can be a powerful incentive for students to complete homework.

Second, it’s important to eliminate every excuse so that the only answer students can give for not doing it is that they just didn’t care. This sets up the confrontation strategy you’ll be using the next morning.

4. Confront students on the spot.

One of your key routines should be entering the classroom in the morning.

As part of this routine, ask your students to place their homework in the top left-hand (or right-hand) corner of their desk before beginning a daily independent assignment—reading, bellwork , whatever it may be.

During the next five to ten minutes, walk around the room and check homework–don’t collect it. Have a copy of the answers (if applicable) with you and glance at every assignment.

You don’t have to check every answer or read every portion of the assignment. Just enough to know that it was completed as expected. If it’s math, I like to pick out three or four problems that represent the main thrust of the lesson from the day before.

It should take just seconds to check most students.

Remember, homework is the practice of something they already know how to do. Therefore, you shouldn’t find more than a small percentage of wrong answers–if any. If you see more than this, then you know your lesson was less than effective, and you’ll have to reteach

If you find an assignment that is incomplete or not completed at all, confront that student on the spot .

Call them on it.

The day before, you presented a first-class lesson and gave your students every opportunity to buzz through their homework confidently that evening. You did your part, but they didn’t do theirs. It’s an affront to the excellence you strive for as a class, and you deserve an explanation.

It doesn’t matter what he or she says in response to your pointed questions, and there is no reason to humiliate or give the student the third degree. What is important is that you make your students accountable to you, to themselves, and to their classmates.

A gentle explanation of why they don’t have their homework is a strong motivator for even the most jaded students to get their homework completed.

The personal leverage you carry–that critical trusting rapport you have with your students–combined with the always lurking peer pressure is a powerful force. Not using it is like teaching with your hands tied behind your back.

Homework Strategies 5-8

Next week we’ll cover the final four homework strategies . They’re critical to getting homework back every day in a way that is painless for you and meaningful for your students.

I hope you’ll tune in.

If you haven’t done so already, please join us. It’s free! Click here and begin receiving classroom management articles like this one in your email box every week.

What to read next:

• A Powerful Way To Relieve Stress: Part One
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21 thoughts on “A Simple, Effective Homework Plan For Teachers: Part 1”

Good stuff, Michael. A lot of teachers I train and coach are surprised (and skeptical) at first when I make the same point you make about NOT involving parents. But it’s right on based on my experience as a teacher, instructional coach, and administrator the past 17 years. More important, it’s validated by Martin Haberman’s 40 years of research on what separates “star” teachers from “quitter/failure” teachers ( http://www.habermanfoundation.org/Book.aspx?sm=c1 )

I love the articles about “homework”. in the past I feel that it is difficuty for collecting homework. I will try your plan next year.

I think you’ll be happy with it, Sendy!

How do you confront students who do not have their homework completed?

You state in your book to let consequences do their job and to never confront students, only tell them the rule broken and consequence.

I want to make sure I do not go against that rule, but also hold students accountable for not completing their work. What should I say to them?

They are two different things. Homework is not part of your classroom management plan.

Hi Michael,

I’m a first-year middle school teacher at a private school with very small class sizes (eight to fourteen students per class). While I love this homework policy, I feel discouraged about confronting middle schoolers publicly regarding incomplete homework. My motive would never be to humiliate my students, yet I can name a few who would go home thinking their lives were over if I did confront them in front of their peers. Do you have any ideas of how to best go about incomplete homework confrontation with middle school students?

The idea isn’t in any way to humiliate students, but to hold them accountable for doing their homework. Parts one and two represent my best recommendation.:)

I believe that Homework is a vital part of students learning.

I’m still a student–in a classroom management class. So I have no experience with this, but I’m having to plan a procedure for my class. What about teacher sitting at desk and calling student one at a time to bring folder while everyone is doing bellwork or whatever their procedure is? That way 1) it would be a long walk for the ones who didn’t do the work :), and 2) it would be more private. What are your thoughts on that? Thanks. 🙂

I’m not sure I understand your question. Would you mind emailing me with more detail? I’m happy to help.

I think what you talked about is great. How do you feel about flipping a lesson? My school is pretty big on it, though I haven’t done it yet. Basically, for homework, the teacher assigns a video or some other kind of media of brand new instruction. Students teach themselves and take a mini quiz at the end to show they understand the new topic. Then the next day in the classroom, the teacher reinforces the lesson and the class period is spent practicing with the teacher present for clarification. I haven’t tried it yet because as a first year teacher I haven’t had enough time to make or find instructional videos and quizzes, and because I’m afraid half of my students will not do their homework and the next day in class I will have to waste the time of the students who did their homework and just reteach what the video taught.

Anyway, this year, I’m trying the “Oops, I forgot my homework” form for students to fill out every time they forget their homework. It keeps them accountable and helps me keep better track of who is missing what. Once they complete it, I cut off the bottom portion of the form and staple it to their assignment. I keep the top copy for my records and for parent/teacher conferences.

Here is an instant digital download of the form. It’s editable in case you need different fields.

Thanks again for your blog. I love the balance you strike between rapport and respect.

Your site is a godsend for a newbie teacher! Thank you for your clear, step-by-step, approach!

I G+ your articles to my PLN all the time.

You’re welcome, TeachNich! And thank you for sharing the articles.

Hi Michael, I’m going into my first year and some people have told me to try and get parents involved as much as I can – even home visits and things like that. But my gut says that negligent parents cannot be influenced by me. Still, do you see any value in having parents initial their student’s planner every night so they stay up to date on homework assignments? I could also write them notes.

Personally, no. I’ll write about this in the future, but when you hold parents accountable for what are student responsibilities, you lighten their load and miss an opportunity to improve independence.

I am teaching at a school where students constantly don’t take work home. I rarely give homework in math but when I do it is usually something small and I still have to chase at least 7 kids down to get their homework. My way of holding them accountable is to record a homework completion grade as part of their overall grade. Is this wrong to do? Do you believe homework should never be graded for a grade and just be for practice?

No, I think marking a completion grade is a good idea.

I’ve been teaching since 2014 and we need to take special care when assigning homework. If the homework assignment is too hard, is perceived as busy work, or takes too long to complete, students might tune out and resist doing it. Never send home any assignment that students cannot do. Homework should be an extension of what students have learned in class. To ensure that homework is clear and appropriate, consider the following tips for assigning homework:

Assign homework in small units. Explain the assignment clearly. Establish a routine at the beginning of the year for how homework will be assigned. Remind students of due dates periodically. And Make sure students and parents have information regarding the policy on missed and late assignments, extra credit, and available adaptations. Establish a set routine at the beginning of the year.

Thanks Nancie L Beckett

Dear Michael,

I love your approach! Do you have any ideas for homework collection for lower grades? K-3 are not so ready for independent work first thing in the morning, so I do not necessarily have time to check then; but it is vitally important to me to teach the integrity of completing work on time.

Also, I used to want parents involved in homework but my thinking has really changed, and your comments confirm it!

Hi Meredith,

I’ll be sure and write about this topic in an upcoming article (or work it into an article). 🙂

Overall, this article provides valuable insights and strategies for teachers to implement in their classrooms. I look forward to reading Part 2 and learning more about how to make homework a simple and effective process. Thanks

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80 Learning Reflection Questions for Students

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Last Update: September 7, 2024

Reflection questions are an important way to boost students’ engagement and enhance their learning. You can use them to encourage students to ponder their experiences, understandings, and feelings about what they’ve learned, their future goals, and many more. In this post, I’ll share a wide variety of reflection questions to use in your class.

What are Reflection Questions?

Before we define reflection questions, let’s first discuss what reflection is. Citing ASCD, Purdue defines reflection as “a process where students describe their learning, how it changed, and how it might relate to future learning experiences”.

Based on this definition, reflection questions, are tools that prompt introspection and critical thinking. They empower students to questions their acquired knowledge and transform their experiences into meaningful understandings and personal growth. But this isn’t just based on my personal experience – research supports the idea that reflection plays a critical role in the learning process.

Studies show that when students pause to reflect on their learning journey—assessing their understanding, evaluating their performance, setting future goals, and analyzing their group work—it leads to increased self-awareness , responsibility for learning, and improved academic performance.

Importance of Reflection Questions in Learning

Reflection is an integral part of the learning process, and its importance for students cannot be overstated. It acts as a bridge between experiences and learning, transforming information into meaningful knowledge.

However, as Bailey and Rehman reported in the Harvard Business Review, to reap the benefits of reflection, one needs to make the act of reflecting a habit. You need to incorporate it in your daily practice and use both forms reflection in action (while being engaged in doing the action) and reflection on action (after the action has taken place).

The following are some of the benefits of integrating reflection questions in learning:

1. Boosts Self-Awareness

Reflection encourages students to think deeply about their own learning process. It prompts them to ask themselves questions about what they’ve learned, how they’ve learned it, and what it means to them.

This practice cultivates self-awareness, making students more conscious of their learning strengths, weaknesses, styles, and preferences. As students better understand their unique learning journey, they become more equipped to tailor their learning strategies in ways that work best for them.

2. Fosters Responsibility for Learning

When students reflect on their learning, they are actively involved in the process of their own education. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership and r esponsibility . It transforms students from passive recipients of knowledge to active participants in their learning journey. They start to recognize that the onus of learning lies with them, making them more committed and proactive learners.

3. Promotes Personal Growth

Reflection is not only about academic growth; it’s also about personal and professional development . When students reflect, they evaluate their actions, decisions, and behaviors, along with their learning.

This helps them identify not only what they need to learn but also what they need to do differently. They gain insights into their personal growth, such as improving their time management, being more collaborative, or handling stress better. This promotes the development of life skills that are crucial for their future.

4. Enhances Critical Thinking

Reflection also enhances critical thinking skills. When students reflect, they analyze their learning experiences, break them down, compare them, and draw conclusions. This practice of critical analysis helps them embrace a questioning attitude and therefore fosters the development of their critical thinking abilities.

5. Facilitates Continuous Improvement

Reflection is a self-regulatory practice that helps students identify areas of improvement. By reflecting on what worked, what didn’t, and why, students can pinpoint the areas they need to focus on. This paves the way for continuous improvement , helping them to become lifelong learners.

Tips to Incorporate reflection questions in your teaching

Here are few tips to help you integrate reflection questions in your teaching:

1. Incorporating Reflection Questions into Lessons

• Introduce at the End of a Lesson: One of the most common times to use reflection questions is at the end of a lesson. This helps students to review and consolidate the key concepts they have just learned. For example, you might ask, “What was the most important thing you learned today?” or “What questions do you still have about the topic?”
• Use in Class Discussions: You can also incorporate reflection questions into your classroom discussions to foster a deeper understanding of the topics at hand. These questions can push students to think beyond the surface level and engage with the material in a more meaningful way.
• Incorporate in Assignments: Reflection questions can be included as part of homework assignments or projects. For instance, after a group project, you could ask, “How did your team work together?” or “What role did you play in the group, and how did it contribute to the final outcome?”

2. Choosing the Right Time to Use Reflection Questions

• After Lessons: As mentioned above, reflection questions can be highly effective when used immediately after a lesson. This is when the information is still fresh in students’ minds, and they can easily connect the concepts they’ve learned.
• End of the School Day: At the end of the school day, reflection questions can help students recall what they’ve learned across different subjects. This can help in connecting concepts across disciplines and promote broader understanding.
• After a Project or Unit: When a project, assignment, or unit is completed, reflection questions can help students consider their performance, what they learned, what challenges they faced, and how they overcame those challenges. It’s an opportunity for them to recognize their growth over time and understand how they can improve in the future.
• During Parent-Teacher Conferences: Reflection questions can also be useful during parent-teacher conferences. Teachers can share these reflections with parents to provide them with insights into their child’s learning process, strengths, and areas of improvement.

Reflection Questions for Understanding Concepts

• What was the most important thing you learned in today’s lesson?
• Can you summarize the main idea or theme of the lesson in your own words?
• Was there anything you found confusing or difficult to understand? If so, what?
• How does this concept relate to what we learned previously? Can you draw connections?
• How would you explain this concept to a friend who missed the lesson?
• What were the key points or steps in today’s lesson that helped you understand the concept?
• If you could ask the teacher one question about today’s lesson, what would it be?
• Can you provide an example of how this concept applies in real life?
• Did today’s lesson change your perspective or understanding about the topic? If so, how?
• What strategies or methods did you find helpful in understanding today’s lesson?

Reflection Questions for Self-Assessment

• What was the most challenging part of the lesson/project for you, and how did you overcome that challenge?
• What are some strengths you utilized in today’s lesson/project?
• Are there any areas you think you could have done better in? What are they?
• Did you meet your learning goals for today’s lesson/project? Why or why not?
• What is something you’re proud of in your work today?
• What learning strategies did you use today, and how effective were they?
• If you were to do this lesson/project again, what would you do differently?
• What steps did you take to stay organized and manage your time effectively during the lesson/project?
• How well did you collaborate with others (if applicable) in today’s lesson/project?
• On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your effort on this lesson/project, and why?

Reflection Questions for Group Work and Collaboration

• What role did you play in your group, and how did it contribute to the project’s outcome?
• What were the strengths of your group? How did these strengths contribute to the completion of the project?
• Were there any challenges your group faced? How were they resolved?
• What did you learn from your group members during this project?
• If you could change one thing about the way your group worked together, what would it be and why?
• How did your group make decisions? Was this method effective?
• What was the most valuable contribution you made to the group project?
• What is one thing you would do differently in future group work?
• Did everyone in your group contribute equally? If not, how did this impact the group dynamics and the final product?
• What skills did you use during group work, and how can you further improve these skills for future collaboration?

Reflection Questions for Goal Setting

• Based on your recent performance, what is one learning goal you would like to set for the next lesson/unit/project?
• What specific steps will you take to achieve this goal?
• What resources or support do you think you will need to reach your goal?
• How will you know when you have achieved this goal? What will success look like?
• What is one thing you could improve in the next lesson/unit/project?
• What skills would you like to improve or develop in the next term?
• What learning strategies do you plan to use in future lessons to help you understand the material better?
• How do you plan to improve your collaboration with others (if applicable) in future projects or group tasks?
• How can you better manage your time or stay organized in future lessons/projects?
• How can you apply what you’ve learned in this lesson/unit/project to future lessons or real-world situations?

Reflection Questions for Students After a Project

• What part of this project did you enjoy the most, and why?
• What challenges did you face during this project, and how did you overcome them?
• If you were to do this project again, what would you do differently?
• What skills did you utilize for this project?
• How does this project connect to what you’ve previously learned?

Reflection Questions Related to Application of Knowledge

• How did you apply what you learned to solve a real-world problem?
• In what ways did prior knowledge help you complete this task or project?
• How did you adapt your knowledge to a new or unfamiliar situation?
• What connections did you make between different subjects or concepts?
• How did applying your knowledge enhance your understanding of the topic?
• What challenges did you face when trying to apply what you learned?
• How did your knowledge evolve as you worked through this task or experience?
• In what ways did applying your knowledge help you think more critically or creatively?
• How can you apply this knowledge in future situations, both inside and outside the classroom?
• How did applying your knowledge deepen your appreciation for the subject matter?

Reflection Questions Related to Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

• What steps did you take to analyze the problem before finding a solution?
• How did you evaluate different perspectives or approaches to the problem?
• What assumptions did you make while solving the problem, and were they valid?
• How did you prioritize tasks or information when addressing the issue?
• What strategies did you use to overcome challenges or obstacles during the process?
• How did you determine the effectiveness of your solution?
• What alternative solutions did you consider, and why did you choose the one you implemented?
• How did you use evidence or data to support your reasoning?
• In what ways did solving this problem help improve your critical thinking skills?
• What would you do differently if you encountered a similar problem in the future?

Reflection Questions for Students at the End of the Year

• What is the most significant thing you’ve learned this year?
• Which areas have you seen the most growth in?
• What was the most challenging part of the year for you, and how did you overcome it?
• What are your learning goals for the next school year?
• How have you changed as a learner over this school year?

Reflection Questions for Students After a Test

• How well do you feel you prepared for the test?
• What part of the test did you find most challenging and why?
• Based on your performance, what areas do you need to focus on for future tests?
• How did you handle the stress or pressure of the test?
• What will you do differently to prepare for the next test?

Reflection Questions for Students After a Unit

• What was the most important concept you learned in this unit?
• How can you apply the knowledge from this unit to other subjects or real-life situations?
• Were there any concepts in this unit you found confusing or difficult?
• How does this unit connect to the overall course objectives?
• What strategies helped you learn the material in this unit?

Reflection Questions for Students After Reading

• What is the main idea or theme of the text?
• How do the characters or events in the text relate to your own experiences?
• What questions do you have after reading the text?
• How has this reading changed your perspective on the topic?
• What part of the text resonated with you the most, and why?

Reflection Questions for Students After a Semester

• What are three significant things you’ve learned this semester?
• What strategies did you use to stay organized and manage your time effectively?
• How have you grown personally and academically this semester?
• What challenges did you face this semester, and how did you overcome them?
• What are your goals for the next semester?

Reflection Questions Related to Feedback and Improvement

• How did you feel about the feedback you received, and why?
• What specific actions did you take based on the feedback?
• How did the feedback help you see areas where you can improve?
• Were there any aspects of the feedback that surprised you? Why or why not?
• How did you prioritize the suggestions for improvement in your work?
• What strategies did you use to implement the feedback in your next steps?
• How has receiving feedback influenced your approach to similar tasks in the future?
• How do you ensure that you understand feedback clearly before acting on it?
• What steps can you take to seek more constructive feedback in the future?
• How do you track your progress in areas where you’ve received suggestions for improvement?

Final thoughts

Circling back to the heart of this post, reflection questions are undeniably a potent catalyst for meaningful learning. They are more than just queries thrown at the end of a lesson; they are introspective prompts that nudge learners to weave together the tapestry of their educational journey with threads of self-awareness, critical analysis, and personal growth. It’s through these questions that students can reflect on their academic canvas and begin to paint a picture of who they are and who they aspire to be in this ever-evolving world of knowledge.

References and Further Readings

Sources cited in the post:

• Driving Continuous Improvement through Reflective Practice, stireducation.org
• Practice-based and Reflective Learning, https://libguides.reading.ac.uk/
• Don’t underestimate the Power of Self-reflection, https://hbr.org/
• Reflective Practice, https://le.unimelb.edu.au/
• Reflection in Learning, https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1210944.pdf
• The purpose of Reflection, https://www.cla.purdue.edu/
• Self-reflection and Academic Performance: Is There A Relationship, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
• Reflection and Self-awareness, https://academic.oup.com/

Related: The 8 Elements of Critical Thinking

Further Readings

A. Books on reflective learning

• Brockbank, A., & McGill, I. (2007). “ Facilitating Reflective Learning in Higher Education “. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Dewey, J. (1933). “ How We Think “.
• Moon, J. A. (2013). Reflection in Learning and Professional Development .
• Schön, D. A. (1983). “ The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think in Action “. Basic Books.
• Gibbs, G. (1988). “ Learning by Doing: A Guide to Teaching and Learning Methods “. FEU.
• Boud, D., Keogh, R., & Walker, D. (1985). “Promoting Reflection in Learning: A Model”. In Reflection: Turning Experience into Learning . Kogan Page.
• Kolb, D. A. (1984). “ Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development “. Prentice-Hall.
• Rolheiser, C., Bower, B., & Stevahn, L. (2000). “ The Portfolio Organizer: Succeeding with Portfolios in Your Classroom “. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

B. Peer-reviewed journal articles

• Rusche, S. N., & Jason, K. (2011). “You Have to Absorb Yourself in It”: Using Inquiry and Reflection to Promote Student Learning and Self-knowledge. Teaching Sociology, 39(4), 338–353. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41308965
• Ciardiello, A. V. (1993). Training Students to Ask Reflective Questions. The Clearing House, 66(5), 312–314. http://www.jstor.org/stable/30188906
• Lee, Y., & Kinzie, M. B. (2012). Teacher question and student response with regard to cognition and language use. Instructional Science, 40(6), 857–874. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43575388
• Gunderson, A. (2017). The Well-Crafted Question: Inspiring Students To Connect, Create And Think Critically. American Music Teacher, 66(5), 14–18. https://www.jstor.org/stable/26387562
• Grossman, R. (2009). STRUCTURES FOR FACILITATING STUDENT REFLECTION. College Teaching, 57(1), 15–22. http://www.jstor.org/stable/25763356
• Holden, R., Lawless, A., & Rae, J. (2016). From reflective learning to reflective practice: assessing transfer. Studies in Higher Education, 43(7), pages 1172-1183. Jacobs, Steven MN, MA Ed, RN. Reflective learning, reflective practice. Nursing 46(5):p 62-64, May 2016. | DOI: 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000482278.79660.f2
• Thompson, G, Pilgrim, A., Oliver, K. (2006). Self-assessment and Reflective Learning for First-year University Geography Students: A Simple Guide or Simply Misguided?. Journal of Geography in Higher Education, Pages 403-420. https://doi.org/10.1080/03098260500290959
• Kember, D., McKay, J., Sinclair, K., & Kam, F. Y. (2008). “A Four-Category Scheme for Coding and Assessing the Level of Reflection in Written Work”. Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education.

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Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational technology landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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Is Homework Beneficial: Exploring the Pros, Cons, and Current Debates

Homework has been a cornerstone of education for generations. It has sparked endless debates among educators, parents, and students. Some see it as a vital tool for children’s learning. Others view it as an unnecessary burden that can cause stress and burnout. Still, most teachers assign homework. They believe additional tasks improve student achievement. As educational methods evolve, we must ask: does homework help students? Does it assist in learning and good study habits? Or does it just add to the pressures of a demanding school establishment? Let’s delve into the pros and cons of homework students receive daily to understand its role in modern education.

Table of Content

Tracing the Roots: A Historical Perspective on Homework

Homework has a long, varied history. It goes back centuries to the start of formal education. In ancient civilizations, only the upper classes received an education. Learning often took place at home, under a tutor or family member. In the 19th century, public education systems developed. Then, homework became a standard practice. It aimed to reinforce school lessons and instill discipline in students.

In the early 20th century, homework faced backlash in the U.S. Some educators and parents argued it stressed kids and cut into family time. During this time, progressive education movements gained momentum. They advocated for less rote memorization and more hands-on learning. However, the Cold War changed views on homework. The 1957 launch of the Soviet satellite Sputnik spurred the U.S. to prioritize math and science education. Homework was then seen as essential for academic competitiveness and national security. Indeed, teachers see till now how homework improves student achievement.

Today, the debate continues. We are reassessing homework’s role in a changing education system. We must balance academic rigor with students’ well-being. Understanding the history of homework helps us see its deep roots. It also explains why it is a contentious issue in education. The National Parent-Teacher Association oversees the quality of the educational process.

Homework has long been a staple in education. It bridges school and home, reinforcing learning and building skills. However, homework’s role in education is more complex than just extra student practice.

Psychological Impacts

One often overlooked aspect of homework is its influence on students’ psychics. Moderate homework can build discipline and responsibility. However, too much of it can cause stress and anxiety. Younger students may lack the skills to handle heavy homework, which can harm their mental health and love of learning. Educators and parents must recognize these stressors. They should adjust homework policies to support, not hinder, a child’s education.

The Role of Socioeconomic Status

Socioeconomic status plays a crucial role in how homework affects students. For affluent families, homework may be easy. They have a good environment and access to resources like books, the Internet, and quiet study spaces. In contrast, lower-income students might face challenges. They may lack access to the necessary resources. They might live in a noisy, crowded home. They may also have to work part-time or care for siblings. These disparities can make homework harder and widen the achievement gap. For this reason, schools must consider these factors when assigning homework. They should also support students to ensure a fair chance to succeed.

The Influence of Technology on Homework

Technology has significantly changed how homework is assigned and completed in today’s digital age. Many educators use online platforms to assign, collect, and grade homework, which can make learning more interactive and engaging. However, this shift also raises concerns about digital equity. Some students lack access to computers or reliable Internet at home, hindering their ability to complete home tasks. Additionally, there is a debate about screen time’s impact on students’ health. It suggests that digital homework should be balanced with offline assignments.

Cultural Perspectives on Homework

Cultural attitudes towards homework vary significantly around the world. In some countries, homework is vital to education. It shows a strong focus on academic success and discipline. Otherwise, some nations want to reduce homework. They seek a better balance with time for play, creativity, and family. Educators in diverse communities must understand these cultural differences. It’s key to developing homework policies that respect all students and families.

Strengthening Learning and Developing Skills

Homework has various benefits:

• It can greatly improve a student’s education and growth.
• It helps students retain skills, build life skills, and boost parental involvement.
• One of the most notable advantages is its role in reinforcing classroom learning.
• Homework helps students remember what they learned in school by revisiting those concepts.

Repeated exposure is crucial for mastering subjects. It’s especially true in math and language arts, where skills are built incrementally if you attend college. As a result, HW tasks help to develop children’s academic strengths.

Moreover, homework fosters essential skills that extend beyond academics. Students develop many skills by completing assignments outside of class. These include time management, self-discipline, and responsibility. Students learn to organize, prioritize, and work independently by dedicating time to study and homework. These skills are vital for academic success in school and work.

Also, homework lets parents engage with their child’s education. When parents help with assignments to high school boys and girls, they learn what their kids are studying. This can improve communication and collaboration with teachers. This helps create a supportive home learning environment. It reinforces that education is a shared responsibility among students, teachers, and families.

When students feel confident, they have good college attendance. Together, these create a better education. If you need help with HW assignments, feel free to address Edubrain for homework answers .

The Drawbacks of Homework

Homework aims to benefit students. However, it has downsides, and some teachers prefer to eliminate homework. This has sparked debate among educators, parents, and students. One of the most significant concerns is the stress and burnout that homework can cause. As academic demands rise, students feel overwhelmed by too many assignments and marks in a high school journal.

This causes anxiety and harms their mental health. This stress can hinder their ability to socialize, relax, and join activities. All are crucial for healthy development and well-being.

Another major drawback is the role homework can play in exacerbating educational inequalities. Not all students have the same access to resources and support outside of school. For instance, low-income students may lack a quiet space to study, have limited access to educational materials for homework, or face extra responsibilities at home. These factors can make it hard to complete homework. This gap can widen the academic achievement gap, hurting struggling students. These students need to finish homework fast, so they need help.

Also, there is debate about homework’s effectiveness in improving learning. Some research suggests that too much homework can backfire. This is especially true for elementary school students.

They may lack the skills or attention span to benefit from long study sessions during the school day and outside of school. In such cases, homework may not help learning. It can instead cause frustration and disengagement. Homework and academic success influence attending college.

Here’s a comparative table outlining the pros and cons of homework:

This table shows the pros and cons of schoolwork. It shows the need for a balanced approach to HW tasks, weighing its benefits and drawbacks.

The Complex Homework’s Impact on Learning

Research on the effectiveness of homework reveals a complex and often contradictory picture. Many studies have explored how homework affects students. Results vary by age, subject, and assignment quality.

Homework for the Youngest

Research generally suggests that homework has limited benefits for younger students. It reveals no academic gains for elementary students. Too much homework now can hurt kids’ love of learning, raise stress, and lower their enthusiasm for school. Experts agree that homework should be minimal for young kids. It should foster a love of learning, not drill-specific skills.

Homework in Middle and High School Periods

As students move to middle and high school, additional homework helps improve their grades. Research shows that moderate homework can boost learning and grades. This is especially true for math and science. However, this positive correlation plateaus when the amount of homework is excessive. Studies show that high school students swamped with homework may suffer. The stress can harm their mental health and well-being.

Homework Develops Kid as a Person

Research also shows that homework helps develop skills beyond academics. It improves time management, self-discipline, and independent problem-solving, which are crucial for success in higher education and the workforce. However, the effectiveness of homework in fostering these skills depends on the nature of the assignments. Homework that is meaningful and well-designed is better than busywork. It is more likely to help students if it aligns with classroom instruction. Busy work just wastes time and adds no value.

Overall, research findings underscore the importance of a balanced approach to homework. Homework can help learn and build skills. Still, its benefits depend on its quality and quantity. It also helps prepare for standardized tests. Finding the right balance is key to maximizing its positive impact on students’ education and well-being. Students can use different resources for assignments.

For example, they can Google “ how to use AI for homework ” and use AI to improve academic achievement.

Rethinking the Role of Homework in Modern Education

Homework’s role in education is a hot debate. Views and practices are shifting, reflecting changes in educational philosophies and priorities. A recent movement is growing among educators, parents, and policymakers. They want to reassess the traditional approach to completing homework. Concerns over student well-being and homework’s effectiveness in promoting learning drive this.

One major trend is the push toward a more personalized approach to homework. Some schools are testing differentiated homework policies. They know each student has unique needs, abilities, and home environments. This approach tailors homework to each student’s learning style and pace. It aims to make it more relevant and manageable. Personalized homework wants to engage middle school students and encourage ownership of their learning. Still, it should not overwhelm them with tasks that may not suit their needs.

Another trend is to assign less homework, particularly in elementary schools. Some educators and schools are adopting a “no homework” policy for young students, and others are reducing homework. This shift is based on research. It suggests that less excessive homework in the early years can foster a positive attitude towards school and prevent burnout. It also allows time for play, family, and activities, essential for holistic development.

In addition, there is a growing emphasis on the quality rather than the quantity of homework. Educators are urged to assign meaningful homework. It should reinforce learning and promote critical thinking, not memorization or busy work. Pupils should not just finish homework fast ; they should understand what and why they did it. This trend supports many education goals, including building problem-solving skills and a love of learning.

Technological advancements are also influencing current debates about homework. Digital tools and online resources offer new opportunities for engaging, interactive assignments. They let high school students access a wealth of information and learn in more dynamic ways. However, this shift raises concerns about screen time and access to technology. It also highlights the need for guidance on using digital resources effectively.

Overall, the current debates and trends in homework reflect a broader reevaluation of its role in education. Excessive homework will be a hot topic as schools adapt to students’ diverse needs. Discussions will focus on best supporting elementary school students’ learning and well-being.

Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance in Homework Practices

The debate over homework’s value is ongoing. It reflects varying views on its effect on student learning, social skills and well-being. Homework can reinforce learning and build life skills. However, it can also cause stress, increase inequality, and fail to boost grades. As education changes, we must rethink the role of homework. It should support, not hinder, student success.

Recommendations for Effective Homework Practices:

• Quality over Quantity: Focus on the quality of assignments rather than the amount. Homework should be meaningful, purposeful, and aligned with what elementary school students are learning in the classroom. It should promote critical thinking and problem-solving, not just drill facts or practice repetitive tasks.
• Age-Appropriate Assignments: Tailor homework to the student’s developmental stage. Younger children should have little homework. It should foster a love of learning. Older students can handle increased homework and can take home assignments. Homework should build on classroom lessons and prepare them for college and jobs.
• Personalized Homework: Consider each student’s unique needs, abilities, and circumstances. Personalized homework can help here. It can engage all students, no matter their background, with the material in a meaningful, manageable way.
• Encourage a Balanced Approach: Recognize the importance of balance in students’ lives. Homework should not overwhelm elementary students. It should not cut into family time, extracurriculars, or rest. These are critical for their development.
• Utilize Technology Wisely: Use digital tools to create engaging, interactive assignments and effective homework, such as AI science solver . But limit screen time. Ensure all students have equal access to the needed resources.

References:

For a deeper look at the research on homework, see these sources:

• Cooper, H. (2006). The Battle Over Homework: Common Ground for Administrators, Teachers, and Parents. Corwin Press.
• Kohn, A. (2006). The Homework Myth: Why Our Kids Get Too Much of a Bad Thing. Da Capo Press.
• OECD (2014). PISA 2012 Results: What Students Know and Can Do. Volume I, Revised edition, February 2014.
• Marzano, R. J., & Pickering, D. J. (2007). The Case For and Against Homework. Educational Leadership, 64(6), 74-79.

By carefully considering these recommendations and drawing from a wide range of research, educators and parents can work together to create homework practices that enhance learning, support well-being, and foster a positive educational experience for all students.

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Homework challenges and strategies

By Amanda Morin

Expert reviewed by Jim Rein, MA

At a glance

Kids can struggle with homework for lots of reasons.

A common challenge is rushing through assignments.

Once you understand a homework challenge, it’s easier to find solutions.

Most kids struggle with homework from time to time. But kids who learn and think differently may struggle more than others. Understanding the homework challenges your child faces can help you reduce stress and avoid battles.

Here are some common homework challenges and tips to help.

The challenge: Rushing through homework

Kids with learning difficulties may rush because they’re trying to get through what’s hard for them as fast as possible. For kids with ADHD, trouble with focus and working memory may be the cause.

Rushing through homework can lead to messy or incorrect homework. It can also lead to kids missing key parts of the assignment. One thing to try is having your child do the easiest assignments first and then move to harder ones.

Get more tips for helping grade-schoolers and middle-schoolers slow down on homework.

The challenge: Taking notes

Note-taking isn’t an easy skill for some kids. They may struggle with the mechanical parts of writing or with organizing ideas on a page. Kids may also find it hard to read text and take notes at the same time.

Using the outline method may help. It divides notes into main ideas, subtopics, and details. 

Explore different note-taking strategies .

The challenge: Managing time and staying organized

Some kids struggle with keeping track of time and making a plan for getting all of their work done. That’s especially true of kids who have trouble with executive function.

Try creating a homework schedule and set a specific time and place for your child to get homework done. Use a timer to help your child stay on track and get a better sense of time.

Learn about trouble with planning .

The challenge: Studying effectively

Many kids need to be taught how to study effectively. But some may need concrete strategies.

One thing to try is creating a checklist of all the steps that go into studying. Have your child mark off each one. Lists can help kids monitor their work.

Explore more study strategies for grade-schoolers and teens .

The challenge: Recalling information

Some kids have trouble holding on to information so they can use it later. (This skill is called working memory. ) They may study for hours but remember nothing the next day. But there are different types of memory.

If your child has trouble with verbal memory, try using visual study aids like graphs, maps, or drawings.

Practice “muscle memory” exercises to help kids with working memory.

The challenge: Learning independently

It’s important for kids to learn how to do homework without help. Using a homework contract can help your child set realistic goals. Encourage “thinking out loud.”

Get tips for helping grade-schoolers do schoolwork on their own.

Sometimes, homework challenges don’t go away despite your best efforts. Look for signs that kids may have too much homework . And learn how to talk with teachers about concerns .

Key takeaways

Some kids have a hard time doing schoolwork on their own.

It can help to tailor homework strategies to a child’s specific challenges and strengths.

Sometimes, there’s too much homework for a child to handle. Talk to the teacher.

Explore related topics

What’s the Right Amount of Homework?

Decades of research show that homework has some benefits, especially for students in middle and high school—but there are risks to assigning too much.

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Many teachers and parents believe that homework helps students build study skills and review concepts learned in class. Others see homework as disruptive and unnecessary, leading to burnout and turning kids off to school. Decades of research show that the issue is more nuanced and complex than most people think: Homework is beneficial, but only to a degree. Students in high school gain the most, while younger kids benefit much less.

The National PTA and the National Education Association support the “ 10-minute homework guideline ”—a nightly 10 minutes of homework per grade level. But many teachers and parents are quick to point out that what matters is the quality of the homework assigned and how well it meets students’ needs, not the amount of time spent on it.

The guideline doesn’t account for students who may need to spend more—or less—time on assignments. In class, teachers can make adjustments to support struggling students, but at home, an assignment that takes one student 30 minutes to complete may take another twice as much time—often for reasons beyond their control. And homework can widen the achievement gap, putting students from low-income households and students with learning disabilities at a disadvantage.

However, the 10-minute guideline is useful in setting a limit: When kids spend too much time on homework, there are real consequences to consider.

Small Benefits for Elementary Students

As young children begin school, the focus should be on cultivating a love of learning, and assigning too much homework can undermine that goal. And young students often don’t have the study skills to benefit fully from homework, so it may be a poor use of time (Cooper, 1989 ; Cooper et al., 2006 ; Marzano & Pickering, 2007 ). A more effective activity may be nightly reading, especially if parents are involved. The benefits of reading are clear: If students aren’t proficient readers by the end of third grade, they’re less likely to succeed academically and graduate from high school (Fiester, 2013 ).

For second-grade teacher Jacqueline Fiorentino, the minor benefits of homework did not outweigh the potential drawback of turning young children against school at an early age, so she experimented with dropping mandatory homework. “Something surprising happened: They started doing more work at home,” Fiorentino writes . “This inspiring group of 8-year-olds used their newfound free time to explore subjects and topics of interest to them.” She encouraged her students to read at home and offered optional homework to extend classroom lessons and help them review material.

Moderate Benefits for Middle School Students

As students mature and develop the study skills necessary to delve deeply into a topic—and to retain what they learn—they also benefit more from homework. Nightly assignments can help prepare them for scholarly work, and research shows that homework can have moderate benefits for middle school students (Cooper et al., 2006 ). Recent research also shows that online math homework, which can be designed to adapt to students’ levels of understanding, can significantly boost test scores (Roschelle et al., 2016 ).

There are risks to assigning too much, however: A 2015 study found that when middle school students were assigned more than 90 to 100 minutes of daily homework, their math and science test scores began to decline (Fernández-Alonso, Suárez-Álvarez, & Muñiz, 2015 ). Crossing that upper limit can drain student motivation and focus. The researchers recommend that “homework should present a certain level of challenge or difficulty, without being so challenging that it discourages effort.” Teachers should avoid low-effort, repetitive assignments, and assign homework “with the aim of instilling work habits and promoting autonomous, self-directed learning.”

In other words, it’s the quality of homework that matters, not the quantity. Brian Sztabnik, a veteran middle and high school English teacher, suggests that teachers take a step back and ask themselves these five questions :

• How long will it take to complete?
• Have all learners been considered?
• Will an assignment encourage future success?
• Will an assignment place material in a context the classroom cannot?
• Does an assignment offer support when a teacher is not there?

More Benefits for High School Students, but Risks as Well

By the time they reach high school, students should be well on their way to becoming independent learners, so homework does provide a boost to learning at this age, as long as it isn’t overwhelming (Cooper et al., 2006 ; Marzano & Pickering, 2007 ). When students spend too much time on homework—more than two hours each night—it takes up valuable time to rest and spend time with family and friends. A 2013 study found that high school students can experience serious mental and physical health problems, from higher stress levels to sleep deprivation, when assigned too much homework (Galloway, Conner, & Pope, 2013 ).

Homework in high school should always relate to the lesson and be doable without any assistance, and feedback should be clear and explicit.

Teachers should also keep in mind that not all students have equal opportunities to finish their homework at home, so incomplete homework may not be a true reflection of their learning—it may be more a result of issues they face outside of school. They may be hindered by issues such as lack of a quiet space at home, resources such as a computer or broadband connectivity, or parental support (OECD, 2014 ). In such cases, giving low homework scores may be unfair.

Since the quantities of time discussed here are totals, teachers in middle and high school should be aware of how much homework other teachers are assigning. It may seem reasonable to assign 30 minutes of daily homework, but across six subjects, that’s three hours—far above a reasonable amount even for a high school senior. Psychologist Maurice Elias sees this as a common mistake: Individual teachers create homework policies that in aggregate can overwhelm students. He suggests that teachers work together to develop a school-wide homework policy and make it a key topic of back-to-school night and the first parent-teacher conferences of the school year.

Parents Play a Key Role

Homework can be a powerful tool to help parents become more involved in their child’s learning (Walker et al., 2004 ). It can provide insights into a child’s strengths and interests, and can also encourage conversations about a child’s life at school. If a parent has positive attitudes toward homework, their children are more likely to share those same values, promoting academic success.

But it’s also possible for parents to be overbearing, putting too much emphasis on test scores or grades, which can be disruptive for children (Madjar, Shklar, & Moshe, 2015 ). Parents should avoid being overly intrusive or controlling—students report feeling less motivated to learn when they don’t have enough space and autonomy to do their homework (Orkin, May, & Wolf, 2017 ; Patall, Cooper, & Robinson, 2008 ; Silinskas & Kikas, 2017 ). So while homework can encourage parents to be more involved with their kids, it’s important to not make it a source of conflict.

45 Student Survey Questions for Useful Feedback

Student surveys are more important today than they’ve ever been, especially as teacher’s work to discover how the last few years of less-than-ideal learning has influenced their students.

Taking the time to check-in and ask students what they need, what they’re struggling with, and what issues they have in class can be eye opening. More importantly, the information can help teachers adjust how they teach and relate to students, helping those students perform better.

While students should always be the primary reason for administering surveys, these tools are also beneficial for teachers and staff. Student surveys are powerful data gatherers , allowing administration the data they need to see trends and (hopefully) student improvement.

We’ve put together a list of 45 student survey questions you can use in your classroom to get useful, actionable feedback.

General Questions

These general questions are ideal to ask at the beginning of the year or regularly at the beginning of class. Using surveys consistently throughout the year gets students used to the format and more comfortable answering questions honestly.

1. How much time do you spend on homework every night?

2. What extracurricular activities are you involved with at school or outside of school?

3. On a scale from 1-10, how supportive do you find your teacher?

4. On a scale from 1-10, how supportive do you find your classmates?

5. Have you ever been in trouble at school? Briefly describe your experience.

6. Does anyone help you with your homework at home? If so, what is their relation to you?

7. What’s the easiest way for you to respond in class? Raising your hand? Shouting out an answer? Using a device to answer anonymously?

8. What is one thing you want your teacher to know about you?

9. What motivates you to learn?

10. What would motivate you to spend more time studying?

End of Lesson/End of Year Overview Questions

This set of questions is all about checking in with students to gauge their understanding of the past lesson or the year in general. Using these answers, teachers can adjust their lessons or teaching methods to best help their students.

11. Rank this year’s/weeks lessons from easiest to hardest.

12. How did you find this month/week’s course load?

13. What things would increase your interest in the class?

14. Which classroom activities helped you learn the most?

15. What’s one thing you’re most proud of accomplishing this year?

16. What one thing would you improve about this class?

17. What would you like to learn next?

18. If you could give advice to students coming into this class next year, what would you tell them?

19. Our next topic is ________. How much do you know about that topic?

Confirming Understanding Questions

The questions in this section are ideal for using at the end of the day or a specific lesson. Teachers can use the answers to decide whether or not to spend more time on a section or to reassess how well students are working together.

20. How well did you understand today’s lessons?

21. What one area do you think needs more explanation?

22. How do you feel what you learned today could be applied in the real world?

23. What’s the best way you think you could practice what we learned in class today?

24. What confused you today?

25. How did you contribute in class today?

26. What was your favorite thing you learned in class today?

27. What are you most proud of accomplishing today?

28. Did any other student help you learn today?

29. Did you work with others today? How did it make you feel?

Well-Being Questions

Mental and emotional health are more important today than they have ever been, especially for students. Taking a break from schoolwork to check how students are feeling mentally can give teachers understanding of certain behaviors or attitudes at any given time during the school day.

30. How are you feeling today?

31. Did you get enough rest last night?

32. Do you feel like you can ask for help when needed?

33. Do you feel like your voice is heard in this classroom?

34. How do you feel about your overall understanding of class work?

35. What would help you feel in a better mood in this class?

36. What emotion are you feeling the most today?

37. What was the best part of your week?

38. What was the worst part of your week?

39. How did you feel included in class today?

40. What’s one thing I can do to make your days easier?

Just for Fun Questions

Surveys don’t have to just be about assessing the serious things in the classroom. Sometimes, taking a break to ask fun questions helps students relax and gets them ready to continue with the day.

41. Cats or dogs?

42. Are hotdogs sandwiches or tacos?

43. What’s your favorite animal?

44. What’s your favorite meal?

45. If you could have any super power, what would it be?

Slides with Friends Surveys

Slides with Friends has spent months working with teachers to figure out their needs in the classroom, including how the quickest and easiest way to run a student survey . Use one of our pre-made slide decks to copy-paste any of the questions above into an easy-to-run presentation.

Create a free account and use our Classroom Quiz template to get started immediately.

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Homework Tips for Kids: 10 Tips to Boost Success

Lomit Patel

College admissions tips: your path to success, fun and easy coding for elementary students online.

Homework can be a challenging aspect of a child’s academic journey, often causing stress for both kids and parents. But with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be a daily battle. Let’s explore some effective homework tips for kids that can transform this necessary task into a more manageable and enjoyable experience.

Table of Contents:

Designate a homework zone, stock up on supplies, minimize distractions, set a regular homework time, use a homework planner, break it down, let them take the lead, teach prioritization, use positive reinforcement, the pomodoro technique, active brain breaks, educational apps and websites, online study groups, for the procrastinator, for the easily distracted, for the perfectionist, communicating with teachers, how can i make my kids homework easier, how can i help my child with homework without being frustrated, at what age should parents stop helping with homework, how to make homework more effective, creating the right environment for success.

The first step in mastering homework tips for kids is setting up an environment conducive to learning and focus. This goes beyond finding a quiet corner – creating a space that encourages productivity and minimizes distractions.

Choose a specific area in your home dedicated to homework . This could be a desk in the bedroom, a corner of the living room, or even the kitchen table. The key is consistency.

By using the same space regularly, your child’s brain will associate that area with focused work time. Make sure this space is well-lit and comfortable. Natural light is ideal, but a good desk lamp works too.

The chair should provide proper support to avoid fatigue during longer study sessions. You should also attend school events to show your child you care about their education.

Nothing derails homework time like having to search for a pencil or calculator. Keep all necessary supplies within arm’s reach. This might include:

• Pens and pencils
• Erasers and sharpeners
• Notebooks and loose-leaf paper
• Ruler and protractor
• Dictionary and thesaurus
• Age-appropriate reference books

Having everything on hand eliminates excuses and interruptions that can break concentration. Ensure they have the special materials needed, like colored pencils or construction paper, for those special projects. Help them gather these materials beforehand, perhaps on a weekend morning, to avoid last-minute scrambling.

In today’s digital age, distractions are everywhere. Create a “distraction-free zone” by keeping phones, tablets, and other electronics out of sight during homework time. If a computer is necessary for assignments, consider using website blockers to limit access to social media and other non-educational sites.

People coming and going or loud noises can distract a child trying to focus on schoolwork. Make sure to limit those types of distractions as much as possible. Remind your child that homework time is for focusing on schoolwork and that there will be time for other activities later.

Developing a Consistent Routine

One of kids’ most crucial homework tips is establishing a consistent routine. This helps children develop good study habits and time management skills that will serve them well throughout their academic careers and beyond. These management skills are essential for success in all aspects of life. Help your child learn to prioritize assignments. Please encourage them to tackle the most challenging subjects when they’re freshest and most alert.

Decide on a specific time each day for homework and stick to it. This could be right after school, after a short break, or even after dinner. The key is consistency.

Doing homework at the same time every day becomes a natural part of the daily routine. Some children work best immediately after school when the day’s lessons are still fresh in their minds, while others might need a break to recharge before tackling assignments.

Experiment to find what works best for your child. This might mean doing math homework before easier reading assignments, for example.

Encourage your child to use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, due dates, and upcoming tests. This not only helps with organization but also teaches valuable time management skills.

Here’s a simple template you can use:

Review the planner regularly with your child, discussing upcoming assignments and deadlines. This helps reinforce the importance of planning and allows you to provide support where needed. Help your child understand that homework is an opportunity to practice and solidify the concepts taught in class.

Large projects or lengthy assignments can seem overwhelming. Help your child break these down into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach makes the work less daunting and provides a sense of accomplishment as each part is completed.

If a project involves research, writing, and presenting, help your child create a timeline with mini-deadlines for each stage. This will make the workload more manageable and teach valuable time management and organizational skills essential for success in all aspects of life.

Encouraging Independence and Self-Motivation

While supporting your child’s homework efforts is important, the ultimate goal is to foster independence and self-motivation. These homework tips for kids focus on building these crucial skills. You can also reward progress and celebrate successes along the way.

Resist the urge to hover or take over. Instead, allow your child to attempt assignments on their own first. This will build confidence and problem-solving skills.

Be available for questions, but encourage them to try figuring things out independently before asking for help. This encourages them to take ownership of their work and develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments. It also helps them to identify their learning style and develop strategies that work best for them. Remember, the goal is not simply to complete the assignment but to help your child understand the material.

Help your child learn to prioritize assignments. Please encourage them to tackle the most challenging subjects when they’re freshest and most alert. This might mean doing math homework before easier reading assignments, for example.

By learning to prioritize tasks, children develop important time management and organizational skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and professional lives. You should regularly check assignments and communicate with the child’s teacher to stay informed about their progress and any challenges they may face.

Praise effort and progress, not just perfect scores. Recognize when your child puts in extra effort or shows improvement. This builds intrinsic motivation and a growth mindset.

Instead of saying “good job,” be specific in your praise. For example, you could say, “I’m really impressed with how much effort you put into that math problem, even though it was challenging.” This helps your child feel good about their work and encourages them to strive for improvement.

Incorporating Breaks and Movement

Sitting for long periods can lead to fatigue and decreased focus. Incorporating strategic breaks and movement into homework time can improve productivity and retention. Encourage your child to take a short break every 30-45 minutes, especially when working on a challenging task. During breaks, encourage physical activity. This could be a quick jump rope game, a dance party to a favorite song, or even stretching. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improving focus and cognitive function.

This time management method involves working for 25-minute intervals and short 5-minute breaks. After four “pomodoros,” take a longer 15-30 minute break. This technique can be especially effective for older children and teens.

It breaks down work into manageable chunks and encourages regular breaks, which can help maintain focus and prevent burnout. Please encourage your child to experiment with different break activities to find what works best for them.

During breaks, encourage physical activity. This could be a quick jump rope game, a dance party to a favorite song, or even stretching. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improving focus and cognitive function.

Even a few minutes of movement can significantly affect a child’s energy levels and concentration ability. Please encourage them to get up and move around, maybe even step outside for a few minutes of fresh air. This can help clear their head and improve their overall mood.

Leveraging Technology Wisely

While technology can be a distraction, when used wisely, it can also be a powerful tool in your arsenal of homework tips for kids. However, it’s essential to establish clear guidelines for technology use during homework time. Please help your child understand the difference between using technology for educational purposes and entertainment.

Numerous apps and websites are designed to support learning and make homework more engaging. These tools can supplement traditional homework methods, from math practice to vocabulary building.

Many of these resources are free or offer affordable subscriptions, making them accessible to many families. Be sure to preview any apps or websites before allowing your child to use them to ensure they are age-appropriate and align with their learning goals.

For older students, online study groups can be beneficial. Platforms like Zoom or Google Meet allow kids to collaborate with classmates on group projects or study together for tests, even when they can’t meet in person.

This can be especially helpful for students who thrive in collaborative learning environments. It’s also a great way for kids to stay connected with their classmates and support each other academically.

Addressing Specific Challenges

Every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Here are some homework tips for kids facing specific challenges:

If your child tends to put off homework, try the “5-minute rule.” Encourage them to start working for just five minutes. Often, getting started is the hardest part, and they’ll likely continue once they’ve begun.

You can also try breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks to make them seem less daunting. Another helpful strategy is to create a visual timer so your child can see the time passing as they work.

Consider noise-canceling headphones or soft background music to help drown out distracting noises. Some children focus better on white noise or nature sounds playing quietly in the background.

Experiment with different sensory inputs to find what works best for your child. You can also create a visual barrier, like a cardboard divider, to minimize visual distractions in their workspace.

Help your child understand that mistakes are a normal part of learning. Please encourage them to focus on progress rather than perfection. Set time limits for assignments to prevent excessive agonizing over details.

It’s important to teach your child that it’s okay to make mistakes and that learning from them is a valuable part of the learning process. You can also model this behavior by sharing your experiences with making mistakes and learning from them.

Open communication with teachers is crucial for supporting your child’s homework success. Don’t hesitate to contact them if your child consistently struggles with assignments.

Attend parent-teacher conferences and stay informed about classroom expectations. Many schools use online portals where parents can check assignments and grades. Regularly reviewing this information can help you stay on top of your child’s progress and identify areas where they might need extra support.

FAQs about homework tips for kids

To make homework easier for kids, create a dedicated study space, establish a consistent routine, break tasks into smaller chunks, and use positive reinforcement. Also, ensure they have all necessary supplies and minimize distractions during homework time. Ensuring your child has a well-lit and comfortable workplace is also essential. A well-lit place is crucial for avoiding eye strain and fatigue. Please encourage them to take short breaks and move around to avoid restlessness.

To avoid frustration, maintain calm, take breaks when needed, and focus on praising effort rather than results. Encourage independence by guiding rather than doing the work for them. If you feel overwhelmed, consider seeking help from a tutor or the child’s teacher. Remember, your role is to support your child’s learning, not to do the work for them.

No fixed age depends on the child’s maturity and independence. Generally, parents should gradually reduce direct help as children progress through middle school , focusing more on providing structure and support rather than hands-on assistance by high school. Allowing them to manage their time and assignments independently encourages them to become more self-directed in their learning.

To make homework more effective, ensure a distraction-free environment, use a planner to organize tasks, incorporate active recall techniques like self-quizzing, take regular short breaks, and connect homework to real-life applications when possible. Also, encourage your child to review and reflect on completed work. You can help your child make connections between their homework and the real world by discussing how the concepts they are learning apply to everyday situations. For instance, if they’re working on fractions in math, you could talk about how fractions are used in baking or measuring ingredients. Please encourage them to ask questions and seek clarification from you and their teachers when needed. This will help them better understand the material and build confidence in their learning ability.

Implementing these homework tips for kids can transform the homework experience from a daily struggle into an opportunity for growth and learning. Remember, the goal isn’t just to get through homework but to develop lifelong study skills and a love for learning. Every child is different, so be patient and willing to adjust your approach as needed. With consistency, positive reinforcement, and the right strategies, you can help your child build the skills they need for academic success and beyond. Help your child understand that homework is an important part of their education and that by working hard and staying organized, they can achieve their academic goals.

About Lomit Patel

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The 5 Best Homework Help Websites (Free and Paid!)

Other High School , General Education

Listen: we know homework isn’t fun, but it is a good way to reinforce the ideas and concepts you’ve learned in class. But what if you’re really struggling with your homework assignments?

If you’ve looked online for a little extra help with your take-home assignments, you’ve probably stumbled across websites claiming to provide the homework help and answers students need to succeed . But can homework help sites really make a difference? And if so, which are the best homework help websites you can use? 

Below, we answer these questions and more about homework help websites–free and paid. We’ll go over: 

• The basics of homework help websites
• The cost of homework help websites 
• The five best homework websites out there 
• The pros and cons of using these websites for homework help 
• The line between “learning” and “cheating” when using online homework help 
• Tips for getting the most out of a homework help website

So let’s get started! 

The Basics About Homework Help Websites–Free and Paid

Homework help websites are designed to help you complete your homework assignments, plain and simple. 

What Makes a Homework Help Site Worth Using

Most of the best sites allow users to ask questions and then provide an answer (or multiple possible answers) and explanation in seconds. In some instances, you can even send a photo of a particular assignment or problem instead of typing the whole thing out! 

Homework help sites also offer more than just help answering homework questions. Common services provided are Q&A with experts, educational videos, lectures, practice tests and quizzes, learning modules, math solving tools, and proofreading help. Homework help sites can also provide textbook solutions (i.e. answers to problems in tons of different textbooks your school might be using), one-on-one tutoring, and peer-to-peer platforms that allow you to discuss subjects you’re learning about with your fellow students. 

And best of all, nearly all of them offer their services 24/7, including tutoring! 

What You Should Should Look Out For

When it comes to homework help, there are lots–and we mean lots –of scam sites out there willing to prey on desperate students. Before you sign up for any service, make sure you read reviews to ensure you’re working with a legitimate company. 

A word to the wise: the more a company advertises help that veers into the territory of cheating, the more likely it is to be a scam. The best homework help websites are going to help you learn the concepts you’ll need to successfully complete your homework on your own. (We’ll go over the difference between “homework help” and “cheating” a little later!) 

You don't need a golden piggy bank to use homework help websites. Some provide low or no cost help for students like you!

How Expensive Are the Best Homework Help Websites?

First of all, just because a homework help site costs money doesn’t mean it’s a good service. Likewise, just because a homework help website is free doesn’t mean the help isn’t high quality. To find the best websites, you have to take a close look at the quality and types of information they provide! 

When it comes to paid homework help services, the prices vary pretty widely depending on the amount of services you want to subscribe to. Subscriptions can cost anywhere from $2 to $150 dollars per month, with the most expensive services offering several hours of one-on-one tutoring with a subject expert per month.

The 5 Best Homework Help Websites 

So, what is the best homework help website you can use? The answer is that it depends on what you need help with. 

The best homework help websites are the ones that are reliable and help you learn the material. They don’t just provide answers to homework questions–they actually help you learn the material. 

That’s why we’ve broken down our favorite websites into categories based on who they’re best for . For instance, the best website for people struggling with math might not work for someone who needs a little extra help with science, and vice versa. 

Keep reading to find the best homework help website for you! 

Best Free Homework Help Site: Khan Academy

• Price: Free!
• Best for: Practicing tough material 

Not only is Khan Academy free, but it’s full of information and can be personalized to suit your needs. When you set up your account , you choose which courses you need to study, and Khan Academy sets up a personal dashboard of instructional videos, practice exercises, and quizzes –with both correct and incorrect answer explanations–so you can learn at your own pace. 

As an added bonus, it covers more course topics than many other homework help sites, including several AP classes.

Runner Up: Brainly.com offers a free service that allows you to type in questions and get answers and explanations from experts. The downside is that you’re limited to two answers per question and have to watch ads. 

Best Paid Homework Help Site: Chegg

• Price: $14.95 to $19.95 per month
• Best for: 24/7 homework assistance  

This service has three main parts . The first is Chegg Study, which includes textbook solutions, Q&A with subject experts, flashcards, video explanations, a math solver, and writing help. The resources are thorough, and reviewers state that Chegg answers homework questions quickly and accurately no matter when you submit them.  

Chegg also offers textbook rentals for students who need access to textbooks outside of their classroom. Finally, Chegg offers Internship and Career Advice for students who are preparing to graduate and may need a little extra help with the transition out of high school. 

Another great feature Chegg provides is a selection of free articles geared towards helping with general life skills, like coping with stress and saving money. Chegg’s learning modules are comprehensive, and they feature solutions to the problems in tons of different textbooks in a wide variety of subjects. 

Runner Up: Bartleby offers basically the same services as Chegg for $14.99 per month. The reason it didn’t rank as the best is based on customer reviews that say user questions aren’t answered quite as quickly on this site as on Chegg. Otherwise, this is also a solid choice!

Best Site for Math Homework Help: Photomath

• Price: Free (or $59.99 per year for premium services) 
• Best for: Explaining solutions to math problems

This site allows you to t ake a picture of a math problem, and instantly pulls up a step-by-step solution, as well as a detailed explanation of the concept. Photomath also includes animated videos that break down mathematical concepts to help you better understand and remember them. 

The basic service is free, but for an additional fee you can get extra study tools and learn additional strategies for solving common math problems.

Runner Up: KhanAcademy offers in-depth tutorials that cover complex math topics for free, but you won’t get the same tailored help (and answers!) that Photomath offers. 

Best Site for English Homework Help: Princeton Review Academic Tutoring

• Price: $40 to $153 per month, depending on how many hours of tutoring you want 
• Best for: Comprehensive and personalized reading and writing help 

While sites like Grammarly and Sparknotes help you by either proofreading what you write via an algorithm or providing book summaries, Princeton Review’s tutors provide in-depth help with vocabulary, literature, essay writing and development, proofreading, and reading comprehension. And unlike other services, you’ll have the chance to work with a real person to get help. 

The best part is that you can get on-demand English (and ESL) tutoring from experts 24/7. That means you can get help whenever you need it, even if you’re pulling an all-nighter! 

This is by far the most expensive homework site on this list, so you’ll need to really think about what you need out of a homework help website before you commit. One added benefit is that the subscription covers over 80 other subjects, including AP classes, which can make it a good value if you need lots of help!  

Best Site for STEM Homework Help: Studypool

• Best for: Science homework help
• Price: Varies; you’ll pay for each question you submit

When it comes to science homework help, there aren’t a ton of great resources out there. The best of the bunch is Studypool, and while it has great reviews, there are some downsides as well. 

Let’s start with the good stuff. Studypool offers an interesting twist on the homework help formula. After you create a free account, you can submit your homework help questions, and tutors will submit bids to answer your questions. You’ll be able to select the tutor–and price point–that works for you, then you’ll pay to have your homework question answered. You can also pay a small fee to access notes, lectures, and other documents that top tutors have uploaded. 

The downside to Studypool is that the pricing is not transparent . There’s no way to plan for how much your homework help will cost, especially if you have lots of questions! Additionally, it’s not clear how tutors are selected, so you’ll need to be cautious when you choose who you’d like to answer your homework questions.  

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Homework Help Sites?

Homework help websites can be a great resource if you’re struggling in a subject, or even if you just want to make sure that you’re really learning and understanding topics and ideas that you’re interested in. But, there are some possible drawbacks if you don’t use these sites responsibly. 

We’ll go over the good–and the not-so-good–aspects of getting online homework help below. 

3 Pros of Using Homework Help Websites 

First, let’s take a look at the benefits. 

#1: Better Grades Beyond Homework

This is a big one! Getting outside help with your studies can improve your understanding of concepts that you’re learning, which translates into better grades when you take tests or write essays. 

Remember: homework is designed to help reinforce the concepts you learned in class. If you just get easy answers without learning the material behind the problems, you may not have the tools you need to be successful on your class exams…or even standardized tests you’ll need to take for college. 

#2: Convenience

One of the main reasons that online homework help is appealing is because it’s flexible and convenient. You don’t have to go to a specific tutoring center while they’re open or stay after school to speak with your teacher. Instead, you can access helpful resources wherever you can access the internet, whenever you need them.

This is especially true if you tend to study at off hours because of your extracurriculars, work schedule, or family obligations. Sites that offer 24/7 tutoring can give you the extra help you need if you can’t access the free resources that are available at your school. 

#3: Variety

Not everyone learns the same way. Maybe you’re more of a visual learner, but your teacher mostly does lectures. Or maybe you learn best by listening and taking notes, but you’re expected to learn something just from reading the textbook . 

One of the best things about online homework help is that it comes in a variety of forms. The best homework help sites offer resources for all types of learners, including videos, practice activities, and even one-on-one discussions with real-life experts. 

This variety can also be a good thing if you just don’t really resonate with the way a concept is being explained (looking at you, math textbooks!).

Not so fast. There are cons to homework help websites, too. Get to know them below!

3 Cons of Using Homework Help Websites 

Now, let’s take a look at the drawbacks of online homework help. 

#1: Unreliable Info

This can be a real problem. In addition to all the really good homework help sites, there are a whole lot of disreputable or unreliable sites out there. The fact of the matter is that some homework help sites don’t necessarily hire people who are experts in the subjects they’re talking about. In those cases, you may not be getting the accurate, up-to-date, and thorough information you need.

Additionally, even the great sites may not be able to answer all of your homework questions. This is especially true if the site uses an algorithm or chatbot to help students…or if you’re enrolled in an advanced or college-level course. In these cases, working with your teacher or school-provided tutors are probably your best option. 

#2: No Clarification

This depends on the service you use, of course. But the majority of them provide free or low-cost help through pre-recorded videos. Watching videos or reading info online can definitely help you with your homework… but you can’t ask questions or get immediate feedback if you need it .

#3: Potential For Scamming 

Like we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of homework help websites out there, and lots of them are scams. The review comments we read covered everything from outdated or wrong information, to misleading claims about the help provided, to not allowing people to cancel their service after signing up. 

No matter which site you choose to use, make sure you research and read reviews before you sign up–especially if it’s a paid service! 

When Does “Help” Become “Cheating”?

Admittedly, whether using homework help websites constitutes cheating is a bit of a grey area. For instance, is it “help” when a friend reads your essay for history class and corrects your grammar, or is it “cheating”? The truth is, not everyone agrees on when “help” crosses the line into “cheating .” When in doubt, it can be a good idea to check with your teacher to see what they think about a particular type of help you want to get. 

That said, a general rule of thumb to keep in mind is to make sure that the assignment you turn in for credit is authentically yours . It needs to demonstrate your own thoughts and your own current abilities. Remember: the point of every homework assignment is to 1) help you learn something, and 2) show what you’ve learned. 

So if a service answers questions or writes essays for you, there’s a good chance using it constitutes cheating. 

Here’s an example that might help clarify the difference for you. Brainstorming essay ideas with others or looking online for inspiration is “help” as long as you write the essay yourself. Having someone read it and give you feedback about what you need to change is also help, provided you’re the one that makes the changes later. 

But copying all or part of an essay you find online or having someone write (or rewrite) the whole thing for you would be “cheating.” The same is true for other subjects. Ultimately, if you’re not generating your own work or your own answers, it’s probably cheating.

5 Tips for Finding the Best Homework Help Websites for You

Now that you know some of our favorite homework help websites, free and paid, you can start doing some additional research on your own to decide which services might work best for you! Here are some top tips for choosing a homework help website. 

Tip 1: Decide How You Learn Best 

Before you decide which site or sites you’re going to use for homework help, y ou should figure out what kind of learning style works for you the most. Are you a visual learner? Then choose a site that uses lots of videos to help explain concepts. If you know you learn best by actually doing tasks, choose a site that provides lots of practice exercises.

Tip 2: Determine Which Subjects You Need Help With

Just because a homework help site is good overall doesn’t mean that it’s equally good for every subject. If you only need help in math, choose a site that specializes in that area. But if history is where you’re struggling, a site that specializes in math won’t be much help. So make sure to choose a site that you know provides high-quality help in the areas you need it most. 

Tip 3: Decide How Much One-On-One Help You Need 

This is really about cost-effectiveness. If you learn well on your own by reading and watching videos, a free site like Khan Academy is a good choice. But if you need actual tutoring, or to be able to ask questions and get personalized answers from experts, a paid site that provides that kind of service may be a better option.

Tip 4: Set a Budget

If you decide you want to go with a paid homework help website, set a budget first . The prices for sites vary wildly, and the cost to use them can add up quick. 

Tip 5: Read the Reviews

Finally, it’s always a good idea to read actual reviews written by the people using these homework sites. You’ll learn the good, the bad, and the ugly of what the users’ experiences have been. This is especially true if you intend to subscribe to a paid service. You’ll want to make sure that users think it’s worth the price overall!

What’s Next?

If you want to get good grades on your homework, it’s a good idea to learn how to tackle it strategically. Our expert tips will help you get the most out of each assignment…and boost your grades in the process.

Doing well on homework assignments is just one part of getting good grades. We’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting great grades in high school in this article.

Of course, test grades can make or break your GPA, too. Here are 17 expert tips that’ll help you get the most out of your study prep before you take an exam.

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Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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Free Websites for Question-and-Answer Homework Help Online

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Online classes are convenient, but they usually don’t offer the support of a traditional university. If you find yourself wishing you had a tutor to guide you through a difficult math problem or essay question, free websites offer you the ability to ask questions and get answers online. 

Yahoo! Answers

Yahoo! Answers lets users ask questions and receive answers from fellow users. Topics include arts and the humanities, science, and mathematics, and education and reference. Users who provide answers receive points based on their responses. Almost all questions receive a quick answer. Many responders seem to be young, so be prepared for quips along with helpful responses. 

Hippo Campus

HippoCampus delivers videos, animations, and simulations on general education subjects to middle-school and high-school teachers. Students can use the site for homework and exam preparation. Users don't need to register or log in. HippoCampus is powered by The NROC Project, a nonprofit, member-driven group focused on new models of digital content development, distribution, and use.

Answerology

Answerology users can answer each other's questions and form “Question Groups” that track the questions on a homework topic. Questions and answers tend to be more social than academic but would be useful in essays. 

Ask a Librarian

This Library of Congress service lets students ask questions and receive emailed responses from librarians. The site asks users to avoid sending homework questions, though it can be used for research issues. Answers are typically sent within five business days. Some topics offer online chat. A virtual reference shelf also is provided.

Free Math Help

This site, launched in 2002, typically sees more than a million visitors a month during the school year. Everything on the site is free , supported by advertising, though some links take you to fee-based sites.

Ask Philosophers

Hosted by the University of Amherst , this site allows users to ask philosophical questions and receive responses from philosophers. Answers are posted within a few days. The website warns submissions won't be posted if they're unintelligible, vague, clearly scientific, concern a personal problem, or have other issues. You can search to see if your question has already been answered.

Ask a Linguist​

Questions are answered on the website by linguistics students and faculty at Indiana University's Linguistics Department . Responses focus on language and language analysis regarding issues with substantial linguistic content or content of wide interest within the discipline.

Ask a Geologist

Email questions about earth sciences to this site, and United States Geological Survey scientists will respond if your homework question is among the 88 percent answered. Include the word "Question" in the subject line. USGS scientists have responded since 1994 but won't answer test questions, write reports, answer questions with direct financial impacts, recommend products or companies, or identify rocks from photos. 

Go Ask Alice!

Questions to the site, hosted by Columbia University’s health department , are answered by health care professionals, information and research specialists, and writers. Team members have advanced degrees in fields such as public health, health education, medicine, and counseling. The site came online in 1994; 20 years later, more than 4 million people were visiting monthly.

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Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

How do I ask and answer homework questions?

Can one ask questions about homework here on Stack Overflow? If so, how should I go about doing so?

What guidelines should users follow when responding to homework questions?

Return to FAQ index

Canonical link: [How do I ask and answer homework questions?](//meta.stackoverflow.com/q/334822)

• asking-questions
• 28 Also some may be interested in adding Open letter to students with homework problems . Markdown: [Open letter to students with homework problems](https://softwareengineering.meta.stackexchange.com/q/6166) –  iBug Commented Apr 12, 2021 at 11:01
• 21 Markdown link for this Q&A - [How do I ask and answer homework questions?](https://meta.stackoverflow.com/q/334822) (Please do not delete this comment again!) –  Stephen C Commented Apr 1, 2022 at 6:33
• 1 @StephenC You could just edit the question and add it there. There is precedent... –  Heretic Monkey Commented Jun 7, 2022 at 17:58
• 5 No thanks. There is also precedent for people 1) adding the cut-and-paste link to the question, 2) flagging the comment for removal and then 3) someone else edits the question to remove the link! Look at the history of this question. Just leave it alone. –  Stephen C Commented Jun 7, 2022 at 23:01
• It's been two years; maybe it'll survive this time. Please please please do not delete the comment though. –  Anerdw Commented 18 hours ago

2 Answers 2

The community has mixed feelings about homework questions. While some feel that students should be able to get an answer to any question they want to ask, others feel that Stack Overflow is not a place for homework questions at all.

This is an attempt to reconcile these two extreme positions in a way that is acceptable to the majority of the community. Note that this post is not the official position of the Stack Overflow administrators, but rather a community-edited effort to provide clear guidelines on how to respond to homework. Individual community members should, of course, use their own judgment.

The guidelines outlined below are rooted in two principles:

It is okay to ask about homework. For one, it would be impossible to stop it all, even if we wanted to. Stack Overflow exists to help programmers learn and provide a standard repository for programming problems, both simple and complex, and this includes helping students.

Providing an answer that doesn't help a student learn is not in the student's own best interest. Therefore, you might choose to treat homework questions differently than other questions.

Asking about homework

Make a good faith attempt to solve the problem yourself first. Users here respond negatively if your question gives them the impression that you're asking them to do your work for you. On the other hand, questions that ask about a specific issue that you're having a problem with usually receive a much better response.

Ask about specific problems with your existing implementation. If you can't do that yet, try some more of your own work first or searching for more general help; your professor is likely to be a better resource at this stage than Stack Overflow.

Search for already-existing questions about your issue. Try using both the Stack Overflow site search and your favorite search engine. Most search engines allow you to limit results to a single site. For example, you can search Stack Overflow on Google . Definitely try searching for your title and/or the keywords in your title, along with the language tag for the language your question is working with. Look through at least the first several results. People tend to respond negatively if they can easily find a duplicate to your question, particularly if they can do so by just searching for your question's title...

Help us understand your baseline. Broad pleas for help like "I have no idea where to start" are problematic, because we can't know your starting level. If you are new to programming, or the specific programming language or system platform you are trying to use, and can't even write or run a simple "Hello world" program, concentrate on solving that in isolation, and return to your actual assignment only when you have solved that. Past that point, it might help to explain the purpose of the course or mention topics you have been taught recently. Do you know how to assign a value to a variable? Do you know how to loop over a range of numbers? Tell us what you already know, and tell us what you already searched for or looked at, and why those resources were not helpful for you.

Be aware of school policy. If your school has a policy regarding outside help on homework, make sure you are aware of it before you ask for/receive help on Stack Overflow. If there are specific restrictions (for example, you can receive help, but not full code samples), include them in the question so that those providing assistance can keep you out of trouble. Note that vandalism and/or edits to questions that invalidate existing answers are against policy. Attempts to hide your question after you've received an answer will not be successful and will make it harder for you to get answers to future questions. See also: I've rethought my question about a homework assignment—why can't I get it deleted?

Never use code you don't understand. It definitely won't help you later (after school, in later assignments, on tests, etc.), and it could be, at best, very embarrassing if you are asked to explain the code you turned in.

Understand the difference between "asking a question about your homework" and "asking a specific question about the code in your homework". You should never ask a question about your homework, because more often than not, it will not meet the recommendations in the rest of these guidelines. Instead, ask about the code you wrote to solve your homework problem and be specific with the inputs, desired outputs, and error messages. It is ideal if you take your code and create a minimal, reproducible example instead of pasting your entire code, especially if it is a long code block.

Answering and moderating homework questions

Try to provide an explanation that will lead the asker in the correct direction. Genuine understanding is the real goal for students, but trying to provide that is usually appreciated for any question.

Focus on the explanation rather than providing full source code. A student is more likely to learn from clear steps and proper explanation rather than ready-made code. However, if a code example will help understand the solution, don't stop yourself from providing one.

Recognize that homework is likely to include artificial constraints , and honor those constraints. Also, be aware that these constraints may affect whether a question should be closed as a duplicate. That said, there is nothing wrong with also including information in your answer about how the problem would normally be solved in the real world. It's helpful for students to learn real-world patterns, and this also makes your answer more useful to future readers.

"Lack of effort" is not a reason to close questions . If a homework question shows no good faith effort, you may cast a downvote and refrain from answering, but this is not—in itself—a close reason. (Obviously, if the question does not ask a question, is unclear, does not provide sufficient information to allow it to be answered, and/or answering it would require writing an entire book, then it should still be closed for the appropriate reason .)

Failure to comply with these guidelines is not a reason to downvote an answer. Naturally, if the answer is incorrect, low quality, poorly explained, and/or something that you would downvote anyway, then it is fine to do so. Remember that it's not always obvious at first glance that a question is homework, especially when you're not expecting to see it here. You can, according to your judgment, leave comments on the answer with suggestions on how to improve it.

Don't ridicule a student because they haven't yet learned something obvious or developed the good habits you'd expect from a seasoned programmer. Do add a respectful comment or answer that points them towards best practices and better style.

It's okay to ask if a question is homework if it would help you write a better answer , but always be polite .

• 53 I agree, but often a question on homework is just the homework, only a quote of the assignment. If people wrote real questions about how to solve the problem, maybe we would help with more homework problems. These people make all homework problems look bad in the eyes of the community. –  CATboardBETA Commented Feb 9, 2021 at 14:20
• 28 If everyone fallowed the "Make a good faith attempt to solve the problem yourself first" rule, we wouldn't need to delete half as many posts. –  Anonymous Commented Mar 14, 2021 at 2:42
• 18 Never use code you don't understand. -- I used to be on another site, where if anyone who asked the typical, lazy homework question became a nuisance (for example, insulted persons who asked for more details), it was customary to give the answer to them. The only caveat, and unaware to the homework beggar, was that the answer used advanced techniques that no beginner would know of. The goal was to see if the beggar ran off with the advanced solution and handed it in to the teacher. Or sometimes, the code was obfuscated, but gave the correct output anyway. –  PaulMcKenzie Commented Jul 13, 2021 at 5:20
• 11 I think part of the problem is the on-boarding process of new people - they don't know what the site is about, or the general standard of quality. They sign up, paste code, add half a sentence, and press post. Then they get rejected and think SO's filled with assholes. There should be an modal saying "before you post, have you read How to Ask ?" before the first question. SO is supposed to be a repository of Q&As, that's why we're flagging questions as duplicates: no question should be asked twice. So care needs to be taken when asking your question. I think many newbies don't know any of this. –  Nearoo Commented Nov 12, 2021 at 18:04
• 4 I think that the best way to address a homework question is: if the OP provided code and wrote a good question just answer it as you normally would, if he just asked how to solve something don't give them a single line of code, try to describe the steps he should take in an easy and comprehensible way and to point him in the right direction so that he understands what he has to study or look for to accomplish the assignment. This would help the student definitely more than making his homework and more than downvoting the question into oblivion. –  Fabio R. Commented Dec 2, 2021 at 11:31
• 2 @Nearoo I think that a similar modal would just get ignored, maybe a better feature would be a FAQ quiz before you can post your first question so that the user is forced to at least read them. Another idea could be to force new users (maybe based on rep) to compile a question template instead of the free box that we have now, so that new users can get used to the correct way of asking a question before letting them write whatever they want –  Fabio R. Commented Dec 2, 2021 at 11:34
• 3 There is also a whole industry for paid homework (e.g., through Fiverr . Or more organised—they even say so directly—I quote: "You can submit your homework by simply clicking the 'Assignment submission' option and following the steps to submit your homework." ). The creation of accounts and submitting the commissioned homework may even be automated by bots, etc. That is, the homework is submitted on the behalf of somebody else. This falls under academic dishonesty. –  Peter Mortensen Commented Apr 1, 2022 at 15:08
• 5 Accommodating such questions in their raw form incentivizes laziness and poor academic habits, and dilutes the worth of this forum. Let's not entirely do someone else's work for them. It is a different story if someone has made an effort to understand the concept(s) involved, and is asking a specific question or having a specific problem in regard to integrating the concept(s) into their solution. Making such an effort would most often lead to a post that doesn't look like a homework question in the first place. We need to flag and close questions that don't display any such effort. –  Pat Jones Commented Apr 8, 2022 at 22:53
• 3 Here is (effectively) an admission that Stack Overflow is being used for paid homework (read the comment thread. And the linked questions). –  Peter Mortensen Commented May 6, 2022 at 9:21
• Would it be worth adding a link to How to debug small programs by Eric Lippert to this answer? –  wjandrea Commented Nov 10, 2023 at 15:30
• 1 @wjandrea While that link is a popular canonical resource, it is pretty specific to compiled languages. I have been thinking for a long time that something like this should exist for Python, PHP, etc. –  tripleee Commented Nov 11, 2023 at 18:19
• @tripleee Good point. When I've reviewed it myself WRT Python questions, in my head I've translated the concepts, like "your program actually compiles" to "your program doesn't have a syntax error" and "compiler warnings" to "interpreter warnings". –  wjandrea Commented Nov 11, 2023 at 18:55

FWIW, I teach a programming class, and have the following policy:

Programming is a "team sport," and it is good for you to talk with each other about ideas on how to confront the problems, and look to the Internet and other sources for ideas. Nevertheless, the work you hand in with your name on it should represent work that you did. If you work with others to complete your lab, list those people with your source code. Also, if you get code from an online resource, list the URL with the lab, and credit where you got the code from. This is a common courtesy and a legal requirement, even for free, open-source software. Failure to give credit is plagiarism. Work that is apparent plagiarism may receive little or no credit.

• 48 You should add a parenthetical: "(<I/Your grader> knows how to use google, too.)" After only a semester of grading Automata homework, it was really easy to separate the googlers from the people who actually did their homework. –  Greg D Commented Oct 23, 2008 at 19:11
• 25 That's an incredibly lenient policy on plagiarism. My school had an automatic 'zero' for anything that included plagiarism and any cheating was reported to the dean of the college. On a second offense students could be removed from the program. –  jsl4980 Commented Oct 23, 2008 at 20:26
• 9 Well, where I am is further down in the academic chain such that we see the students as "customers." –  JohnMcG Commented Oct 23, 2008 at 20:28
• 2 I agree with jsl4980, plagiarism should be handled aggressively (my college expelled students for the first offense. That said, I think having guidelines like this that make clear limits on what's in and what's out are very helpful for avoiding plagiarism in the first place. –  acrosman Commented Oct 23, 2008 at 23:11
• 7 I have to agree with jsl4980. Now it did lead to some interesting problems, I inserted a quotation from SRV into one of my programs and cited it. This lead to my having to explain why I "stole" Java code from a guy who died before Java existed. Neither the prof nor the TA were from the US. –  Dan Blair Commented Dec 3, 2008 at 15:58
• 27 I like your policy. Programming most certainly is a team sport. –  Chris Ballance Commented Feb 9, 2009 at 4:25
• wow, sbeen a while but still... yes on agressive plagiarism policies BUT how many different permutations of hello world can you make before stubling on someone else's, thus citing sources is NOT plagiarism. –  Newtopian Commented Apr 15, 2009 at 7:07
• This being said, students should sometimes be reminded that the homework was about programming, not net surfing thus even if all sources were cited the grades are on the actual work done towards that goal... That's how we did it when grading papers, it was well accepted by both students and staff –  Newtopian Commented Apr 15, 2009 at 7:09
• 3 Yes, in a literature course, I can use resources, and quote them, and I must cite them and give proper credit. I share your viewpoint in that credit must be given, just as with any other resource. This seems like a guideline to impose on students. –  Anonymous Commented Jun 19, 2009 at 6:50
• 19 I'm also a computer science professor, and this is similar to my policy as well. As long as they correctly cite something, they can use any source. That being said, if, after they've turned it in, there are so many citations or it's otherwise obvious that most of the work was done by others, I reserve the right to ask them to redo the project from scratch, using what they've learned, but not using so much help this time. It's usually obvious if they misuse this policy, especially if they have a lot of trouble with the same concept on the very next project. They can't hide it forever. :-) –  eruciform Commented Jul 6, 2010 at 0:51
• Every page on here says user contributions licensed under cc-wiki with attribution required . If you take something non-trivial from here and use it verbatim in your own work (whether as a student or otherwise) without attributing it correctly to the author and to SE then you would be in breach of that licence, would you not? –  barrowc Commented Nov 13, 2011 at 1:28
• I just included that comment verbatim in a paper I submitted so I guess we'll find out (;-) –  JohnMcG Commented Nov 17, 2011 at 17:34
• 1 @jsl4980 note that there is a HUGE difference between plagiarism (claiming as your own) and attributed use of open source (non copyrighted) material. As described, this policy condemns the former and condones the latter. It shows no sign of leniency towards plagiarism (or are you saying "apparent plagiarism gets little to no credit") is too lenient? –  Floris Commented May 22, 2014 at 13:43
• It's not hard to tell the difference between a student that has leaned the concepts and one that hasn't. IMO, learning and integrity are the only things that truly matter and grading should be based on that. Students already struggle when they get into college and find that things aren't as structured for them as they were in high school. It frustrates me that so many college courses continue this unnecessary rigid structure that does them little favor in most industries. –  CubicInfinity Commented Oct 7, 2022 at 21:32
• (SRV == Stevie Ray Vaughan, apparently?) –  tripleee Commented Oct 27, 2023 at 5:29

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10 Questions to Ask Kids Beyond "How Was School Today?"

These questions can open the door for more meaningful dialogue with kids..

Updated September 2, 2024 | Reviewed by Kaja Perina

• A Parent's Role
• Take our Authoritative Parenting Test
• Find a family counsellor near me
• With a little creativity and a few well-crafted questions, you can have meaningful conversations.
• Don’t ask too many questions or your curiosity may feel like an interrogation.
• Resist the urge to tell your child what they should do if they say they experienced a problem.
• It’s important for kids to know that mistakes aren’t something to be embarrassed about.

It’s tempting to ask your child, “How was school today?” to get some information on how things are going. But you're likely to get back a monosyllabic response if you ask the same question day after day.

If you want to know more about what’s going on in your child's day-to-day life, you’re not alone. With a little creativity and a few well-crafted questions, you can turn those vague answers into meaningful conversations.

As I explain in my book, 13 Things Mentally Strong Parents Don't Do , showing interest in your child's opinions and ideas is important. And there are many things you can do to encourage them to open up and share their thoughts.

Here are 10 creative questions designed to encourage your child to share more about their day, along with tips for fostering a comfortable environment for open communication.

1. "What was the best part of your day?"

This question shifts focus from the usual routine and encourages your child to share their favorite highlight. This question is also helpful if your child tends to gravitate to the negative things going on. Talking about the positive aspects of school might help them see that there’s always something good going on in their day, even if that highlight involves lunch or recess only.

2. "Did anything surprise you today?"

Surprises can range from unexpected science experiments to getting picked second for the kickball team. This question invites your child to reflect on the day’s events and share fun details you might not otherwise hear.

3. "Who were you proud of today?"

This question can foster social skills as you ask your child to think of someone they were proud of. Whether they were excited a friend got a good grade in math or they were proud of a peer who dared to participate in a game at recess, this question can help them see how they can cheer others on, instead of thinking of everyone else as their competition .

4. "When did you feel proud of yourself today."

In addition to pointing out why they feel proud of others, it’s also important for kids to celebrate their accomplishments. No matter how minor something might seem, taking a minute to acknowledge a time they were brave or a time when they were kind, can boost their confidence and reinforce good behavior.

5. "What’s one thing that would have made today even better?

This invites your child to express any frustrations or challenges they might have faced, giving you insights into areas where they might need support. It can also help them build problem-solving skills and identify things they want to change for tomorrow.

6. "What was the most interesting thing you learned?"

Encourage academic curiosity with open-ended questions that give them the freedom to share what interests them. Instead of asking about a specific subject or focusing on how they scored on a test, this question gives them the freedom to talk about their passions and it can foster a love for learning, regardless of how they perform on standardized tests.

7. "What did you play during recess?"

Recess is a key part of social and physical development. This question can lead to stories about friendship , teamwork , and play, revealing information about your child's social skills. It’s good to know whether they spent their recess playing alone, talking to friends, or joining in a group activity.

8. "Who were you kind to today?”

This encourages empathy and altruism . It prompts your child to consider how their acts of kindness have the power to impact others. It can also show that you value being kind to others if that’s something you value within your family–as to only valuing their academic success in school.

Sexting and Your Kids

9, "What’s something new you’d like to try at school?"

This question can lead to your child sharing things they’re curious to try, whether it’s a new club or a musical instrument. Sometimes children get caught up with their current activities and forget to look for new ones. This question might remind them that there are plenty of other things to explore and try if they want.

10. "What’s a mistake you learned from today?”

Kids need to know that mistakes aren’t something to be embarrassed about and it’s not a sign of their intelligence . Instead, mistakes can be great learning opportunities. The more you normalize mistakes and failures, the more likely your child will recognize how to take responsibility and learn from their missteps.

How to Create an Environment for Open Communication

To make the most of these questions, it’s crucial to create a space where your child feels comfortable sharing. Here are some tips:

• Listen actively . Show genuine interest by maintaining eye contact and responding positively to their stories.
• Choose your timing. Your child may not be eager to talk right when they get home. You might find it’s better to talk over dinner or after they've had some time to unwind.
• Ask limited questions . Don’t ask too many questions or your curiosity may feel like an interrogation. If your child doesn’t want to talk, move on to another subject to keep your conversations about school fun.
• Model how to share. Share your day, showing that it’s okay to talk about both highs and lows.
• Don’t immediately give advice. Resist the urge to tell your child what they should do if they say they experienced a problem. Instead, ask them what they plan to do to address the issue and help them problem-solve.
• Talk during activities . Staring face-to-face may put pressure on your child. They may be more likely to open up when they’re coloring or while you’re playing catch.

Your conversations don’t have to be long and in-depth about school. Keep in mind the goal isn’t to just gather information, but it’s also an opportunity to connect and show your child that you value hearing about their thoughts and feelings.

Facebook image: antoniodiaz/Shutterstock

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and the author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do .

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