It is mindless to have a formula for the amount of homework by grade level. It simply depends on the curriculum being covered and the need for remediation. The rule of thumb should be that the homework assigned reflects the maturity of the student and their attention span.

Everything from reading and taking notes to creating castles to Internet research are all lumped into the homework category. That is why homework has drawn flies from all types of researchers and others who want to put an objective stamp on this fluid subject. Even brain research about the maturation of a child’s thinking process has been used to defend positions in the homework battle. The problem is that some research does not measure favorable results. For example, homework completion frequency has been shown to correlate with a student's grades achievement. It may also help forge a connection between school and home (O'Rourke-Ferrara, 1998).

Sadly, despite all the brouhaha about homework, I failed to find any research that homework has a negative effect upon a child’s success. Yes, some families rightly point out that it is hurting their family togetherness and that some youngsters don’t have parents that can help them, but where is the research that shows it impedes a child’s future? (article: Homework hurts, but hurting helps homework)

Furthermore, the completion of homework creates in the child an intrinsic reward and these types of rewards have shown to be far more beneficial than extrinsic ones. Alfie Kohn in his Punished by Rewards, lays out arguments against extrinsic rewards as they fail to produce any long term learning commitments. In other words, correctly doing a homework assignment helps build confidence and self-respect.

Of course, none of this really helps the teacher when confronted with the decision to give homework that is based on the educator’s years of training, education, and instincts. Experienced teachers know full well that assigning homework creates more work for them and yet they clearly see the value in helping a student become better prepared for the next day and for life. And that should be the ultimate goal of every educator.

Homework Help Sites

Enhancing your child's success in school: homework help

Helping Your Students with Homework: A Guide for Teachers

Increasing Student Engagement and Motivation: From Time-on-Task to Homework

Hints for new teachers about homework

NEA Summary

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