Welcome Reader.
This is Brazile's Homework Page.

Homework Research

"Homework or Not. That is the (reseach) question."

"Does Homework Improve Academic Achievement? A Synthesis of Research 1987-2003"

The Case For and Against Homework

Stanford Research Shows Pitfalls of Homework

If you read the articles above and other research, there's little that shows distinct growth in younger grades. For fifth grade, there is a small amount of growth shown if the assignments given are small and appropriately designed. However, another article shows the negative effects on health and stress levels in homework.

What to do? I believe we can give kids a choice. If they're struggling with topics, it's not a bad idea to practice at home. Reading for pleasure is good any time. If we consider that homework, I'm all for homework. Reading practice helps reading skills, plain and simple. I want kids reading anything and everything they can. I want them to enjoy it and encourage it.

In short, I don't support homework for elementary students. I agree that it can build their skills in organization and time management. When weighed against the arguments about stress, family time, etc., I think not having homework is a plus. Not only for the children, but for the parents too. I have the kids working very hard each day, after school is their time to relax and be kids.

© 2014 Shane Brazile. All rights reserved.