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Motivating Yourself for Homework

An essential yet undesirable part of school is homework. Students know they need it to pass the subject, and deep down, they do know it helps them somehow, but it is still something many students are not interested in doing.

But because it is essential, students need to know how to adapt. The following are some ways for students to motivate themselves to do their homework.

  1. Have a routine

The first thing for any student to do is develop a fixed routine for homework. The fun activities should generally come after. Chores, however, may depend upon the strictness of parents.

But once made, it is important to stick to the routine so that it can be done again the following day. If this can be developed early enough, such as in elementary, it will be easier to maintain up until college.

  1. Define the study area

It helps if the study area is clearly defined. As much as possible, it should not entice the student to sleep or play, which is why the bed or the playroom are usually not options. Many students choose to do their homework at the dining table, living room (with no TV, of course), or even in the kitchen.

However, if the home is not big enough, making the bedroom the only option, then steps must be made to make the bedroom study-worthy. These might mean straightening up the bed first, so it doesn’t look too enticing, and clearing the desk of any clutter.

  1. Encourage yourself

Some people find it helpful to remember words of encouragement that they can recite like a mantra as they begin their homework. Phrases like “You can do it” or “Just believe, and you will achieve” can be of help. Others don’t just recite it; they print it out and post it somewhere they can see it. Positive words can put you in a good mood before tackling any school tasks.

  1. Give yourself a tangible goal

Parents and teachers often tell students to “think of the future” when they do their assignments. But because “the future” is so far away, it can be hard to give one’s all just for homework. A tangible goal, however, can motivate them more.

Some students treat themselves after a week of maintaining good study habits. This might be binge-watching their favorite show or going out with friends. But if they don’t do well, they refrain from enjoying any rewards so that they are motivated the following week. Others treat themselves to their favorite food if they do well in a test and institute their form of “discipline” if they fail to achieve it. 

Regardless of the method, what matters is the student can commit to studying hard.

Summary

Homework is an important component of the school. Therefore, students must find ways to stay motivated so they can study properly and do their assignments well. If you are having a similar problem, then do remember the tips above so you can achieve your homework goals.

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The Purpose of Homework

School has been around for quite some time, but the homework that we experience now has not. If some sources in google are to be believed, it was in the early 1900s that the systematic homework we have now came about – at least for the general public. True or not, homework is here to stay, whether students like it or not. So rather than complaint, it is best to understand the purpose of such assignments.

  1. To recall the lesson

Because we are not computers that can absorb everything, much of what we see and hear is quickly forgotten, even if the lesson was presented well. Thus, homework helps students recall what was taught in class.

Additionally, sometimes the teacher may have forgotten to discuss a particular topic in class, or there was not enough time. So homework can also help students to discover this on their own as they read their books or search for online history homework help.

  1. To help memorize the concepts

In learning, repetition is key. Strategically assigned homework allows students to memorize and understand concepts as they put to use the lessons in class. Because it is a component of students’ grades, it is more effective to give homework than to expect them to read and remember it themselves.

  1. To challenge their thinking

Because learning is more than just recalling what was taught in class, homework can be used to challenge their thinking. Reflective essays, analysis papers, and other kinds of critical thinking assignments can do this as students must examine what they learned in class against what they believe and what they discover through research.

  1. To develop creativity

Not everything given is meant to develop analytical thinking. Sometimes creative homework is also assigned to exercise the students’ imagination. These may be artworks, short stories, and poems.

  1. To develop discipline

Students might not see it, but homework does develop discipline. Because of the need to prioritize assignments, students of all ages learn self-discipline. Aside from managing their time, they learn self-restraint as they refrain from watching TV or touching their gadgets. They also practice focusing their mind on the task at hand. Thus, homework prepares them for adult life when many sacrifices are made for work and family. 

  1. To assess learning

And of course, for teachers, homework helps assess learning. Some students think assignments are given to keep them busy, believing that homework is not checked as much as quizzes and exams. Little do they know that teachers do look at them to understand the progress of the class. If students have a hard time in their assignments, teachers might dedicate more time to the particular lesson or may even adjust their exams to match the level of the pupils.

Summary

Though not all students may agree, homework does have its benefits as it ensures lessons are understood, and it helps teachers assess the progress of their class. So instead of fighting against the notion of homework, hopefully, students can learn to see the positives so they can gain much from it.

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Easy Homework Tips for Little Kids

Nearly all students around the world dislike homework.  It eats up their TV and playtime at home, and it gives them headaches and frustrations. These assignments, however, also annoy parents when their kids are struggling. Parents eventually realize that they must help out. 

But for parents, perhaps one of the more challenging homework situations is when the child is still very young. Younger children do not understand its purpose yet, which is why the burden is on the parents.

Fortunately, there are some tips to help little kids do their homework.

  1. Keep things positive

For kids as young as 4 to 6, it is still difficult for them to understand the “seriousness” of homework. So if you want them to stay involved, keep a positive outlook, and make them believe it is a fun and interesting thing to look forward to; otherwise, they will learn to dread homework. This is especially important if you become frustrated when trying to teach them. You may firmly warn them if they are misbehaving, but generally, keep a smile on your face.

  1. Reduce the energy before you begin

Very young kids are full of energy, which prevents them from sitting still. If you realize that your child needs much time to settle down, then engage them in a few physical activities first to reduce some of their energy. Once done, they will be more willing to sit down, listen to what you say, and work on what they need to do. Just be careful not to tire them out too much, or they will also be too tired to think.

  1. Keep the sessions short

Little kids cannot focus long, so try to keep your lessons short. Many suggest 10 to 15 minutes only on a topic before you have a short break or switch to something different, preferably something more fun.

  1. Ensure there is a treat at the end

Young children often work better if they know there is something to look forward to at the end. This could be their favorite snack or storytime with a parent. It is a good way to start getting them used to delayed gratification. However, it is important to explain the purpose of homework so that they may slowly begin to understand it is part of the school process, not just for immediate rewards.

  1. Know when to stop

Some topics may be easy for your child, while others will take much time. If you realize that nothing is getting through, it may be time to stop and resume another day. It could be that your child is less focused that day, or he or she needs more time to process it. So stop it for the meantime and resume some other time.

Summary

For little kids, homework can be a great challenge for them and their parents. If you are a parent of a little one, take note of the tips above to help your child get used to the homework process.

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