Handling Homework and Study Skills

The ability to study effectively and grow foundational study skills is important for middle schoolers to learn. Whether children finish education at the high school level or continue to higher education, both tracks require developed study habits in order to do well in classes.

Asking questions is ok when comprehension is lacking

Explaining the importance of homework diligence must be done in a motivational way. Telling a child that doing homework will aid in comprehension of the material, which will lead to better grades and more fun in class, is a good start. Frustration is also a big part of homework assignments, and students may feel pressured to complete all homework before coming to class the next day. These certain events call for reassuring children; if they are unsure about a question or a way to get an answer, they can always mark it and go to class early to ask the teacher for help. Additionally, questions pertaining to class material during class should be praised. When students feel confident enough to ask for clarification on a topic, asking questions will become more comfortable. In addition, other students may even have the same question, so one student is doing others a favor.

Studying with peers could make homework less daunting and more fun! 

Homework and other assignments can require a great deal of focus; if a student is unable to pay attention to the material, academic performance on material will surely decrease. Helping children think of a quiet place to get work done in their homes with as few distractions as possible will allow them to realize what a good study environment should be. If students can’t think of a quiet place in their own home, encourage going to a friend’s home for homework and even studying together. Furthermore, if your school system has before or after school tutoring sessions, educate your student on those opportunities.

Lastly, helping a child chunk up his/her assignments will alleviate stress and make homework more manageable. Talking up to-do lists, show students how to separate their tasks into similar subjects, or even small chunks of work. For example: If a student has to read a chapter that has 10 pages in it, the list could say “read 5 pages of chapter, have a snack, read 5 pages of chapter”, rather than having a whole daunting chapter on the list. Letting a child know he/she may take small breaks during homework time is actually good for productivity, because after doing some math problems, doing a few jumping jacks or watching 10 minutes of TV will decrease stress and frustration of homework. Consequently, returning to the problems, the child will feel relaxed and/or rejuvenated.

Homework is a large part of school and success, but can also lead to a child’s negative views of school and poor intellectual self esteem. Helping children understand how important homework is to gaining comprehension of subject matter, as well as letting them know there’s no shame in asking for help, will allow children to have a more positive view of classwork. Giving kids skills for the house such as finding a good work environment and allowing themselves to take breaks will also ensure success outside the classroom. Happy homework time, and thanks for reading!