The essay is an excellent analysis of the advantages and the otherwise of’ homework.’ It uses a number of examples, statistics, arguments and critical surveys. Both the sides of the coin are presented in a balanced way. Homework is mainly to strengthen the pupil’s learning. It should by rule be limited, interesting, enjoyable, purposeful and productive. In recent times, homework has, on the other hand, become heavy, boring and counter productive. Competition and baseless thinking on the part of some teachers and parents have added to the burden of homework. Excessive homework is very harmful in more than one way. It eats into the child’s free time. Children miss their social life. Family relations do not develop in the desired manner. Children don’t find time to play and exercise. Even academically also, they become dull. Thus, burdensome homework injures children physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and morally. Hence ‘less is more’ should be the rule. Interesting, enjoyable homework in a limited quantity is advisable and welcome.
