What are the objectives of homework?

Article ID: 211

Last updated: 20 Sep, 2015

3. The nature of the homework

Homework should encourage students to learn more about Science in the broadest sense of the word. SATIS (Science, Technology and Society) activities should be encouraged, and students should view homework as a challenge, stimulating and relevant to their needs and their surroundings. The choice of activity is very important. Inappropriate choice of activities, without due consideration for a range of abilities and range of interest of the pupils will almost certainly turn students off science. Homework will be seen as an unnecessary chore, with little relevance and meaning for them. It is an ideal opportunity to allow them to solve problems, and to involve their parents, and resources at home, or at the local library. Some pupils may want to use their own computers for assignments, and this should be encouraged. In fact it is quite amazing just how positively pupils can respond to project work, reports, letters, surveys, and role-play activities. When used in a stimulating and imaginative way, homework can go a long way to providing increased accessibility, and make science fun, interesting and a rewarding experience. Therefore, the challenge is not only intended for the students, but also for the teacher.