Kids and Homework: WABC TV News Spot

Some of the kids were featured in a local news story on whether today's grade school students are assigned too much homework. The news segment, which was filmed in our apartment, appeared on WABC TV Channel 7.

Students facing too much homework?
(by Art McFarland, New York - WABC, October 20, 2006) (WABC)

Do kids have too much homework? A new book raises this increasing debate about whether the abundance of homework is causing a strain for families.

With four school-age children in the Belnap household, weeknights consist of homework, and only homework.

Lorinda Belnap, parent: "We have an 8th grader and so we've been doing it essentially since he was in kindergarten, so I'm used to it now that I don't plan things in the evenings."

David Belnap, student: "It started to pile on around 3rd ... that's when we got homework assignments every day instead of weekly."

Nancy Kalish and Sara Bennett have made the case against homework, which is what they call their new book.

Nancy Kalish, author: "The research actually proves that it doesn't have the value that so many parents, and even teachers believe it does."

Sara Bennett, author: "It's something they inherited from a teacher before them. It's certainly not designed for different kids, different levels and different interests."

Critics of homework overload are concerned, not only about the pressure it can put on students, but they say it can also have a negative effect on family life.

"Instead of it being pleasant and having a nice discussion at the family dinner table, for instance, what happens is, it's all surrounded by arguments 'have you done the homework?' ... " Nancy said.

A recent study at Duke University concludes that homework should be determined by grade level:

In elementary school, 10 minutes per grade, per night is suggested
In middle school, 60 to 90 minutes per night
In high school, a total of up to two hours

Other experts say homework has its place.

Diane Ravitch, NYU Professor: "Homework reinforces what's learned in school and it also gives children the opportunity to exercise independence, creativity and above all, and very important, effort. Effort is critical for students learning."

In their book, the authors offer strategies for parents to take homework complaints to school.

"Say to the teacher, 'Look, this is what's happening in my house and it's not working for my family'" Sarah Bennett said.

While that approach may not work at every school, the authors hope to step up the national debate on homework.

WABC Channel 7: Homework