Controversy Surrounds the Effectiveness of Homework

While one side argues that the many hours of homework help students better learn the material and boost academic achievement, such as performance on standardized tests, the others claim that homework overload often results in counterproductiveness and prevents growing teens from getting the necessary eight to nine hours of sleep each night.

“I do agree with certain teachers and the education departments that homework helps me review and fully understand the concepts I learn in class,” said Macy Dimson, a sophomore at a Palos Verdes high school. “However, hours of homework only make me tired, and I often have go to sleep past midnight.”

According to ASCD, homework is defined as any task assigned to students by school teachers that is meant to be carried out during non-school hours. While studies support the fact that homework improves academic achievement, self-discipline, and independent problem solving skills, research also shows that homework causes emotional, mental, and physical fatigue, as well as limited leisure time for children.

“I’m not a fan of homework because of how much time and energy it requires,” said Stephanie Kim, a sophomore at a Palos Verdes high school. “Instead of pressuring the students, I believe that homework should be nicely balanced into our daily lives, since many of us play sports or indulge in other extracurriculars.”

Of course, there isn’t a definite or correct answer to end this long-lasting controversy. But, whether or not homework actually proves to be beneficial or detrimental to students’ health, mindset, and academic outcomes, it is important to consider the already-existing pressures and stress students face in their daily lives.

Jenny Huh

Jenny Huh, Grade 10 Chadwick School

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