In the interest of arriving at a result that everyone can be proud of, here are some tips to prevent and solve the most common problems of group projects and ensure that every group project goes off without a hitch:

Where Should Students Begin when a Group Project is Assigned?

Getting started is often the hardest part, especially if students have not had experience working in a group before. Before students begin any project or assignment, it’s important that all members of the project plan how they’ll work by setting some parameters, such as:

• Assign a project leader: choose someone in the group to help coordinate everyone else and assign roles.
• Contact details (phone numbers and email addresses for all team members)
• Assigning tasks: each group member should be responsible for a particular part of the project and understand their role.
• Meeting schedule (how often team members will get together to work on the project, when and where they’ll meet)
• Set deadlines to keep the project moving along.

All students in the group project should understand their role and the overall objective.

Who Does What in the Project?

Divide and Conquer

Collaboration is key! Students must work together to determine what needs to be done and how to divide the work.

• For instance, if the project is designing a poster, the tasks could be writing the words, developing a design concept, drawing or using a computer to create the poster artwork, getting the poster laminated, creating and writing the presentation of the poster in class, etc.
  
• Once everyone agrees on all the tasks that need to be accomplished, assign responsibilities.
  
• Discuss what tasks each person is interested in, and what skills/talents/resources they can bring to the project.
  
• Divide administrative tasks that no one wants to do among several team members. If someone wants to try something new, partner that person with someone else who has experience. This allows people to develop abilities in the group while still creating a successful project.
  
• Set a timeline: Work backward from the final deadline and assign deadlines to each team member for completing each task.
  
• Communicate throughout: create a group chat over email or an app to stay connected, ask questions, and remind group members of timelines.

Once everyone understands their role and the work involved, it’s easy to see how their individual contributions will lead to the final product.

How To Know When the Project is Complete

Bringing the individual elements of the project together into a completed work is the next step. The group leader will

• The group leader will contact all members to collect their contributions and bring all elements together.
  
• The completed project should be shared with all group members for review and editing as needed.
  
• If presenting the group project in front of the class, the group should gather again to practise the presentation and determine who is saying what.

Once all group members are satisfied with the final product, the group project is ready for the next step.

Presenting the Group Project

Group projects usually involve a presentation element. Public speaking can be daunting for many students, so it’s key to know who is comfortable presenting. Here’s how to divide and conquer when presenting a group project:

• The group leader presents the group project topic and introduces everyone in the group
  
• Each person presents the key points from their section.
  
• The group leader presents the project conclusion and asks the class if there are any questions.
  
• Bonus tip: Use visuals to help make your points! It makes the presentation more dynamic.

Making the Most of Group Projects

TLDR: While group projects are not every student’s favourite assignment, with these tips, students can manage their group project with ease, ensure all members of the group participate evenly, and get the best mark possible.

• Assign a group leader
• Evenly divide the work
• Stay in contact
• Follow up often
• Present with ease

Get Help With Group Projects & Assignments

Help your child build stronger skills in school in all subjects and grades with a personalized learning program at Oxford Learning.

Whether your child is in elementary school or high school, our customized cognitive-based programs help all students develop stronger learning skills for life!

Get started here.

This post was originally published in 2006 and has been updated in 2025

The post How To Manage a Group Project appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Check out these exciting and engaging holiday activities that combine learning and fun!

Holiday Activities That Develop Math Skills

1. Have Your Child Help Pick Out Groceries

Turn your next grocery shopping trip into a learning experience!

Asking your child to help calculate quantities and costs helps build essential mental math skills. For instance, if you’re cooking two hamburgers for six people with two people being vegan, challenge your child to figure out how many patties to buy. Older kids can tackle more advanced questions, like determining the cost per unit in a package. Not only will this boost their math confidence, but it will also make them feel like an important part of the family routine.

2. Holiday Baking Fun

Baking isn’t just delicious—it’s educational. 

Invite your child to measure ingredients and explore basic unit conversions. For example, ask, “How many millilitres fit in a cup?” as you bake together or ask them to double or triple the recipe. These activities strengthen math skills and teach real-world applications while building confidence and creating sweet holiday memories.

Here are three great baking recipes to try: 

• Peppermint Bark
• Bûche De Noël 
• Gingerbread Cookies

Holiday Activities That Develop Science Skills

3. Take a Walk Outdoors

Exploring nature is a wonderful way to foster curiosity and observation skills. Visit a park or green space, and ask your child questions like, “How do you think this landscape was formed?” or “What animals might we see here?” You can make it even more interactive by setting up a scavenger hunt and encouraging your child to classify items by colour, shape, or size.

4. At-Home Science Experiments

Bring the wonder of science into your home with simple experiments. From building a baking soda volcano to constructing paper towers, these activities make science fun and engaging. You can even turn it into a family competition—whoever builds the tallest tower wins the right to choose the next experiment!

Holiday Activities That Develop Writing Skills

5. Write a Letter to Santa

If your family celebrates Christmas, have your child to write a letter to Santa. This fun tradition improves handwriting, spelling, fine motor skills, and creativity while keeping the season’s magic alive.

6. Holiday Cards for Family Members

Let your child take charge of the family’s holiday cards. Writing thoughtful messages fosters communication, time management, and writing skills. Plus, it’s a rewarding experience to create something meaningful for loved ones.

Holiday Activities That Develop Reading Skills

7. Read Together Every Night

For younger children, nightly storytime is a great way to practice reading. Guide them through the text, point to pictures, and read aloud together. Older children can enjoy a novel over the break—set a goal to finish the book before school resumes for an added challenge.

8. Learn a New Game

Pick up a new board game for the family to enjoy. Have your child read the instructions aloud to practice reading comprehension and public speaking. Helping them with tricky words will build confidence while making family game night even more fun.

Here are some great games: 

1. Monopoly teaches money management, decision-making, and basic math skills.  
2. Scrabble helps build vocabulary, spelling skills, and critical thinking.  
3. The Game of Life introduces real-world decision-making, financial literacy, and planning for the future.

Holiday Activities That Develop Art Skills

9. Create Holiday Cards

Put crafting and drawing skills to work this holiday season and create holiday cards and gift tags. Homemade is always the best and crafting builds focus and determination.

10. Film a Holiday Video

Filming a holiday video is a fantastic alternative for kids who prefer to be behind the scenes. They’ll learn about directing, planning, and visual storytelling while creating something they can enjoy for years. Bonus: There are many services that you can use to make a holiday e-card video that you can send to friends and family. Here are a few:

• Memento 
• Celebrate 
• VidDay

Whatever the Subject, Oxford Learning Can Help

Whether your child needs extra support in a specific subject or wants to sharpen their learning skills, Oxford Learning is here to help. Our team works closely with your child to set and achieve learning goals, ensuring their success both in and out of the classroom.

Make this holiday season a time for learning and fun with Oxford Learning!

Find a Location

This post was originally published in 2018. Updated for 2024.

The post 10 Holiday Activities To Keep Your Child On Track appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Why do students procrastinate on homework and put off a big project until the last minute? Despite what some parents might believe, it’s not because your child is lazy, doesn’t want to do the work, or because they have a bad work ethic.

Kids often put more value on what is happening today than what will happen tomorrow. There’s a biological reason for this: similar to the same biological systems that tell us to pull our hand out of a flame, putting off a task that feels not great relieves the pressure of facing an unpleasant task. We naturally opt toward what feels better. Paired with the fact that many students dislike the idea of doing schoolwork at home (home is for relaxation!), you have the perfect recipe for a procrastination problem.

So, what can parents do to help?

Learn more about the causes and effects of procrastination and tips for how you can help your child avoid procrastinating so they can become a better, self-motivated learner.

Why Do Students Procrastinate at Homework Time?

Students often procrastinate because they don’t see how a project is relevant or important to them, don’t understand the material, or don’t know how to get started. When you boil it down, procrastination combines motivation, confidence, and comprehension issues.

As a parent, it can be frustrating to struggle with your child not completing their homework and assignments. It can leave many parents feeling like their child is lazy or doesn’t care about school.

However, much of the time, procrastination has very little to do with laziness or a lack of caring. In many cases, there are deeper issues that lead students to develop a procrastination problem.

Help your child succeed—see the ultimate study guide here.

Causes of homework procrastination among students include:

• Lack of motivation
• Low self-confidence
• Fear of failure
• Lack of understanding
• Trouble concentrating
• Perfectionism
• Low energy levels
• Poor organization skills

Effects Of Homework Procrastination

Homework procrastination can harm students’ schoolwork, grades, and even their overall health. Students who procrastinate experience higher levels of frustration, guilt, stress, and anxiety—in some cases leading to serious issues like low self-esteem and depression.

The effects of procrastination can have an even bigger impact on high school students. Once students reach high school and start receiving more take-home assignments and larger projects, students who procrastinate until the last minute tend to receive lower grades than their peers.

This can create a cycle of bad grades and low self-confidence that can be difficult for students to overcome. At a time when marks start to impact the post-secondary opportunities for students, this can lead to a lot of extra stress and frustration.

Learn more about how to stop homework procrastination.

How Can Students Learn To Avoid Homework Procrastination?

How can you help your child beat the temptation to procrastinate on homework? Check out these tips and learn how students can stop procrastinating on homework and be more productive.

1. Break the Project into Smaller Tasks

Big projects can be overwhelming at the outset. Help your child break the project down into manageable parts such as research, writing, and editing. Then, he or she can tackle each task step by step until the project is done. This will also help your child develop and practice his or her project planning and time management skills.

2. Make the Project Meaningful to Them

Finding ways to make a project meaningful and relevant for students helps them connect it to their interests and motivates them to start. Relate the project to something your child is interested in or a real-world scenario; this can help make homework and assignments less like work and more interesting.

3. Build Up Your Child’s Confidence

Some children procrastinate because they fear failure or think they can’t meet expectations. Boosting your child’s confidence by pointing out his or her efforts and past achievements can help your child develop a more positive attitude toward his or her work, making it easier to get started.

4. Create a Dedicated Study Space

Without a proper study space, children can become distracted by everything around them, which can quickly lead to procrastinating on homework. To avoid this, create a dedicated quiet space where your child can sit down and do his or her work each day. Ensure this space has all the materials your child will need, including pencils, paper, and erasers.

5. Eat Healthy and Get Lots of Sleep

Healthy eating and sleeping habits can help increase the amount of energy your child has as well as how much brainpower and focus reserves available…things your child needs to perform their best in school. A regular sleep routine and consistent bedtime each night help with this. Help your child pack thier lunch each day, picking healthy options like fruits and yogurt as midday snacks (these work great as after-school study snacks, too!)

6. Set Clear Goals to Stop Procrastinating on Homework

Fear of failure and perfectionism are major causes of procrastinating on homework and can be difficult for many students to overcome. Helping your child set clear and realistic goals will help him or her manage expectations and track his or her progress. Let your child know that sometimes it is okay to fail, and treat it as a lesson for next time.

7. Make a Project Plan and Stick to It

Create a schedule with your child, setting dedicated blocks of “homework time” he or she uses to work on schoolwork each day. When bigger projects are assigned, sit down with your child as early as possible and make a project plan of attack he or she can follow. Set mini-project due dates or milestones your child can aim for. This will help break down the assignment, making big projects seem more manageable.

8. Develop Good Study Skills

Help your child improve his or her study skills by focusing on the learning process—not just his or her grades. Getting a good grade is the goal, but it is good study skills that will help your child achieve it. Encourage active thinking and critical problem-solving skills by talking through any challenges your child is facing with their homework or assignments and working out a solution together.

Stop Procrastinating on Homework—Today!

Helping students improve their learning skills and develop motivation for their work are the keys to helping students complete homework and assignments on time, reduce school stress, and end procrastination for good. If your child still needs an extra boost, our study skills program can help!

The post Homework Procrastination: Why Do Students Procrastinate? appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Tutoring can play a beneficial role in helping students with dysgraphic overcome this challenge and make significant progress in the quest for better grades.

What is Dysgraphia?

Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects a person’s ability to write by hand. While many students may struggle with handwriting at some point, dysgraphia goes beyond the occasional messy class notes. Individuals with dysgraphia constantly struggle with the mechanics of writing. 

This can include:

• Difficulties with forming letters
• Maintaining consistent letter size and spacing
• Producing written work that is legible and coherent

The Impact of Dysgraphia on Students

The challenges posed by dysgraphia can have a profound impact on a student’s academic experience. Written assignments, note-taking, and exams become daunting tasks, potentially affecting self-esteem and overall academic performance. It’s important to recognize that dysgraphia does not reflect a lack of intelligence; rather, it is a specific difficulty in translating thoughts into written form.

How Tutoring Can Help Students with Dysgraphia

Tutoring can be beneficial for students with dysgraphia. A good tutor provides personalized strategies and support. This specific and tailored approach to tutoring can make a big difference in dealing with handwriting and writing challenges. 

Individualized Instruction

Tutors bring a personalized touch to their teaching methods, tailoring their instruction to meet the unique needs of each student. This approach involves honing in on specific challenges when writing, ensuring that the learning experience is finely tuned to address individual struggles.

Multi-Sensory Approaches

Engaging students with multi-sensory activities is a key strategy employed by tutors. By incorporating touch, movement, and visual elements into their teaching, tutors create an immersive learning experience. This caters to diverse learning styles and makes writing more accessible, allowing students with dysgraphia to grasp and apply essential skills in a way that resonates with them.

Technology Integration

Tutors act as tech-savvy guides, introducing assistive technologies that cater to the challenges presented by dysgraphia. Speech-to-text software, word processors, and other digital devices can become valuable tools, empowering students to express their thoughts and ideas more effectively. The seamless integration of technology addresses the hurdles of handwriting and opens up new avenues for communication and self-expression.

Building Confidence

Beyond academic instruction, tutors play a pivotal role in nurturing the confidence of students with dysgraphia. Recognizing and highlighting strengths, providing positive reinforcement, and celebrating small victories create a supportive learning environment. This focus on building confidence extends beyond the classroom, positively impacting students’ overall outlook on their abilities and potential for success.

Time Management and Organization

Tutors serve as mentors in developing crucial life skills such as time management and organization. Recognizing the challenges that dysgraphia may pose in written assignments, tutors guide students in effective planning and organization. By instilling these skills, tutors empower students to navigate tasks without feeling overwhelmed, ensuring a more structured and successful academic journey.

Oxford Learning is Here to Help

With the help and support of tutors at Oxford Learning, students with dysgraphia can overcome obstacles and thrive academically. 

Oxford Learning offers a personalized and adaptive approach, where Tutoring becomes a powerful tool for unlocking the potential of students with dysgraphia. 

At Oxford Learning, we focus on individual students’ needs, utilizing innovative cognitive strategies while fostering a positive learning environment. Our tutors contribute significantly to the journey of academic success for students facing the challenges of dysgraphia.

Find a Location Near You

The post Understanding Dysgraphia and How Tutoring Can Help appeared first on Oxford Learning.

As we dive into each day, you’ll discover a delightful mix of hands-on experiments, creative projects, and family adventures that bring joy and foster essential skills in your child. From exploring educational websites to baking up some holiday math magic, every day is an opportunity to create lasting memories while nurturing a love for learning.

So, gather your loved ones, embrace the season’s spirit, and let’s unwrap the magic of learning together. 

Introducing the 12 Days of Holiday Skills!

Day 12 – Keep Curiosity Alive

Educational websites are like treasure troves of fun and learning. The best part? There are thousands of them waiting to spark your curiosity and keep your child entertained while they learn! Here are some we enjoy:

• PBS Kids
• Fun Brain 
• How Stuff Works   

Day 11 – Boost Science Skills

Kids love hands-on activities, and science is the perfect playground for the scientific method. You can easily find instructions for these exciting experiments with a quick Google search. Don’t worry about making a mess—it’s all in the name of learning!

• Arctic Animals
• Baby Diaper Secret
• Colour Changing Milk

Day 10 – Holiday Baking and Learning

Baking is a holiday favourite. It’s the perfect opportunity to get the kids involved. Measuring, working with quantities, and understanding fractions are essential math skills that come to life in the kitchen. Once students see math in action, they’ll grasp its practical magic!

Day 9 – Let Your Child Be the Tour Guide

For Day 9 of the Holiday Skills, let the kids choose a local landmark or historic site. Have them research everything about it, from how to get there to its fascinating history. Then, appoint them as your tour guides to share their newfound knowledge with the family!

Day 8 – Level Up with a Language App

Mastering a new language can be a fun challenge, and it’s crucial to keep those language skills sharp during the winter break. Apps like Duolingo and Little Pim are awesome for kids! Make it even more exciting by setting up challenges and milestones to keep students engaged and motivated.

Day 7 – Unleash the Magic of Writing

Handwriting skills are taking a back seat in our digital age. Let’s revive them. Encourage your kids to write a letter to Santa and send holiday cards to family members or long-term care facilities—to spread a little holiday joy. The holiday break is the perfect time to nurture this valuable habit.

Day 6 – Take a Family Adventure

Make the most of the holiday weather and embark on a family hike. Before you head out, let your child be the weather expert and interpret conditions based on temperature and precipitation. Once you’re outside, it’s time to get active. Enjoy a snowball fight, make a snow fort, or go tobogganing down a snowy hill. These outdoor activities not only bring joy but also boost blood flow to the brain, significantly enhancing cognitive function.

Day 5 – Create a Reading Tradition

Why not kick start a new family tradition this holiday season by getting a holiday storybook to read together? Reading is a key to academic success, so this holiday, nurture this important skill. Books help children unleash their imaginations and find solace in stories. They’re also fantastic tools for expanding vocabulary and mastering new words.

Day 4 – Get Festive with Holiday Tunes

The 12 Days of Holiday Skills wouldn’t be complete without those timeless jingles! Luckily, there are countless versions of these classics by different artists. Why not turn it into an impromptu music lesson? Create a holiday music playlist featuring both old and new songs. Here’s the twist—challenge the students to guess the singer!

Day 3 – Dive into Creativity

Turn your holiday into a creative adventure by crafting a family history Christmas tree. It’s a delightful blend of history and art, perfect for making cherished memories! Use holiday traditions as a gateway for kids to delve into their family’s past. Encourage your child to uncover where and how previous generations celebrated their holidays. This unique project adds a meaningful touch to the holiday season!

Day 2 – Get Your Board Game On

Gather the family for a fun-filled board game extravaganza! It’s a fantastic way to take a break from screens and bond together. Plus, playing board games is a secret training ground for critical thinking skills like strategy, analysis, and planning. Let the games begin!

Day 1 – Keep the Rhythm Going

Keep your regular routine going strong during the holiday break. It helps your child transition smoothly when it’s back to class in January. Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season from all of us at Oxford Learning!

Unwrap a Season of Learning and Joy

As we wrap up the 12 Days of Holiday Skills, we hope these engaging activities have added a sprinkle of learning and joy to your festive season. From exploring educational websites to embarking on family adventures, each day brought opportunities to make lasting memories while sharpening essential skills.

At Oxford Learning, we believe in the power of continuous learning, and the holiday season is no exception. As you enjoy these activities with your family, consider extending the spirit of learning into the new year. Our tutoring centers are here to support your child’s academic journey, offering personalized programs designed to boost confidence and enhance skills.

Ready to Unleash Your Child’s Potential?

Discover the benefits of personalized learning at Oxford Learning. Find a tutoring center near you and kickstart your child’s educational journey. Whether it’s reinforcing core subjects, building study skills, or preparing for exams, our dedicated team is here to help.

Visit an Oxford Learning location near you to find a tutoring center near you and make the new year a season of academic success!

Wishing you a season filled with learning, laughter, and bright beginnings. Happy holidays from all of us at Oxford Learning!

The post Unwrapping the 12 Days of Holiday Skills appeared first on Oxford Learning.

The Importance of Balance

In Canada, homework can be a double-edged sword. Canadians mostly support homework as an essential tool to help solidify what is learned in class and create an opportunity for students to apply new skills on their own. However, Canadians believe too much homework can interfere with well-being and growth.

Canadians also believe that too much homework can lead to burnout and deteriorate mental health conditions. Canadians simply focus on grades; rather, the focus is more holistic, striking a balance between acing exams and caring about mental well-being.

As a group, Canadians tend to embrace the concept that to become the best versions of ourselves, we need to find the sweet spot between hitting the books and living life to the fullest.

Learning Styles & Homework Approaches

Not everyone learns the same way. So, when it comes to homework, embracing learning styles supports the idea that everyone processes information differently. 

The approach to homework can be different for each student, depending on their learning style. Some students are great with structured assignments, others thrive with self-directed projects, and some learn best with hands-on learning.

Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Rather than drowning students in endless tasks, teachers aim to assign meaningful assignments that encourage critical thinking and creativity. 

Canadian homework assignments aim to engage students’ curiosity and intellect, resulting in deeper learning and understanding of the subject matter. Focusing on quality over quantity fosters a love for learning and encourages students to take ownership of their education.

Learn more about homework help here.

Encouraging Family Involvement

More than two-thirds of Canadians agree/strongly agree that homework is a source of household stress. Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their children’s academic journey by being open and supportive.

Parental involvement in education is shown to contribute to educational success. But there is such a thing as too much help. Parents should offer homework help when needed; however, parents should avoid doing the homework themselves, remembering homework help is best when it guides, encourages and allows students to build problem-solving skills and take responsibility for their own work. 

Acknowledging the Importance of Play and Extracurriculars

Learning doesn’t just happen within the four walls of a classroom or merely through homework. Placing value in the power of play and getting involved in extracurricular activities is a crucial part of a holistic education. 

When students participate in sports, arts, or community projects, they embrace personal growth, skill-building, and meaningful social connections. Striking that perfect balance between study time and playtime allows students to blossom in every aspect of their lives and really follow their passions!

Canadian Attitudes Toward Homework 

Canadians believe that homework should strike a healthy balance between academic achievement and personal development. As a result, Canadians focus on quality over quantity when it comes to homework assignments, ensuring an enhanced student learning experience.

Students’ individuality is acknowledged, allowing for tailored approaches to homework based on their unique learning styles. Families and extracurricular activities are actively involved, enriching the educational journey beyond the classroom.

Finally, the Canadian attitude toward homework demonstrates the country’s dedication to developing well-rounded, intellectually proficient, emotionally aware, and socially capable citizens. 

Canada’s approach to homework will continue to change as educators, parents, and students continue to engage in open discussions, ensuring that the education system stays inclusive, supportive, and ever-adapting to the changing demands of its learners.

Need Help with Homework? 

Oxford Learning’s tutoring programs aim to help your child develop essential study and learning skills. These learning skills will pave the way for their success throughout their life. 

With our personalized programs and support, our tutors help your child’s academic growth.

Whether it’s improving subject-specific knowledge or fostering effective study habits, our program caters to students’ unique needs.

Together, we can lay a strong foundation for a bright and prosperous academic career.

Contact a location near you to learn more.

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In this ultimate guide to homework, we will explore the benefits of homework, the right amount of time to spend on assignments, valuable tips and strategies to overcome difficulties, and where to find homework help. 

Whether you are a student looking for ways to improve your homework routine or a parent seeking guidance about how to help your child, this guide can help!

If you’re looking for a particular subject, click to jump to a section. 

1. Why homework?
2. Benefits of homework 
3. The right amount of time spent on homework
4. Finding homework motivation 
5. Managing homework anxiety
6. Effective homework planning
7. Understanding homework assignments
8. Breaking down homework assignments 
9. Overcoming homework difficulties 
10. Getting homework help 

The Big Question—Why Homework?

As long as there has been school, there has been homework. And when there’s homework, there are teachers, parents, administrators, education experts, politicians, and students with strong opinions about the value of homework. 

Homework often raises the question of its purpose and relevance. But there are several reasons why homework is assigned.:

1. Revisit Concepts: Homework allows students to review and reinforce what they have learned in class, helping them retain information better and longer.
2. Prepare for Upcoming Classes: Completing homework tasks prepares students for future lessons, enabling them to participate and engage in classroom discussions.
3. Build Persistence and Determination: By working on problems at home, students develop key skills such as persistence, problem-solving, and determination.
4. Develop Useful Habits: Regular homework practice helps students develop discipline, time management skills, and a strong work ethic essential for academic success and beyond.
5. Avoid Negative Consequences: Neglecting homework can result in negative consequences such as low grades, missed opportunities, and disciplinary actions.

Homework plays a key role in education and should not be overlooked by parents or students. 

Check out the pros and cons of homework.

Benefits of Homework

Contrary to popular belief, homework provides several benefits that contribute to a student’s academic progress and general development. Here are five key homework benefits:

1. Enhanced Learning: Homework allows students to dive deeper into the subject matter and conduct additional research beyond the classroom. This helps to create a deeper understanding of the topic. 
2. Time Management Skills: With many assignments and deadlines to meet, homework teaches students how to manage their time and prioritize tasks.
3. Independent Work: Homework creates independence and self-reliance. Students are responsible for completing their assignments without relying on peers or teachers.
4. Communication Skills: Writing essays and other assignments improves students’ communication skills. This helps them articulate their thoughts and express their opinions effectively.
5. Resource Utilization: Homework encourages students to explore various resources beyond the internet, such as books, magazines, and journals. This helps to foster a broader understanding of the subject.

What’s the Right Amount of Time to Spend on Homework?

Determining the appropriate time allocation for homework is essential to balance academic commitments and personal well-being. 

The Toronto District School Board offers a simple guideline to help determine how much homework is appropriate at each grade level. Following the guideline of 10 minutes per grade level, each grade should have this amount of homework: 

• 30 minutes in Grade 3
• 40 minutes in Grade 4
• 50 minutes in Grade 5
• 60 minutes in Grade 6
• 70 minutes in Grade 7
• 80 minutes in Grade 8

While these time frames provide a rough estimate, it is essential to consider individual circumstances and adjust accordingly.

Ultimate List of Homework Help

Finding Homework Motivation

Even if your student loves school, homework can sometimes be a downer. Motivation is crucial to completing homework effectively. Maintaining Motivation is not always the easiest. 

Here are some strategies to keep motivation on track:

1. Make a Plan: Create a plan to get homework completed. Make a list of everything your student needs to do and give specific timeframes in which it should be done.  
2. Use the Reward System: Set rewards for your student, such as enjoying a favourite treat or engaging in an activity they want once they’ve completed their tasks.
3. Set Long-Term Goals: Set goals for each semester or academic year, and reward your students with something significant once goals are met.
4. Stay Organized: Use a planner and ensure that your student writes down all their upcoming assignments, tests and events so you can keep track of everything in one place. 
5. Be Positive: The key is to approach homework with a positive attitude. Show your student that this is an opportunity to learn and grow instead of a chore that has to be completed. 

Staying motivated is the key to homework success.

Getting Help With Homework Anxiety

Homework anxiety can be a massive hurdle for many students. Homework anxiety can cause stress for students and delay the completion of their homework. Recognizing the signs of homework anxiety is crucial in order to address the issue. 

Factors such as being overly anxious or striving for perfection can contribute to homework anxiety. But various solutions can help reduce anxiety and help with homework:

• Set Time Limits: Devoting a specific time slot for homework can provide a sense of structure and ease anxiety. This helps with improved time management and can be especially beneficial if your student struggles to start or complete tasks.
• Take Breaks: Incorporating regular breaks into your student’s study routine can help with homework anxiety. During the breaks, engage in activities like brisk walks, coffee breaks, or listening to music to shift your student’s focus away from assignments and recharge their mind.
• Seek Support: If self-help strategies aren’t working, consider speaking to a professional. Therapists and counsellors are trained to help individuals overcome anxiety. In times like these, seeking therapy can be a valuable resource for guidance and support.

Remember, you don’t have to face homework anxiety alone. You can effectively manage and overcome homework anxiety at home by implementing these strategies and seeking appropriate help.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health and wellness, you can find help and resources here.

Effective Homework Help Planning and Scheduling

When homework is piling up, it can feel overwhelming. Students must manage their time efficiently to stay on track and not get left behind. With a good schedule and proper planning, students won’t have to worry about missing homework assignments or not having enough time to finish them. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to put a homework plan together. 

Follow these straightforward steps to get started:

1. Assess the Workload: Before diving into the tasks, take a moment to check the entire workload for the day or week. This assessment will give you a clear understanding of what needs to be accomplished.
2. Set Priorities: Determine which assignments can be completed quickly and which need in-depth research and analysis. Consider each task’s deadlines to establish priorities.
3. Create a Plan: With a clear understanding of the tasks and their order of importance, develop a final plan and establish a routine for success. Be prepared to make adjustments along the way. Don’t forget to consider the satisfaction of checking completed tasks off a list—it can work wonders for motivation!
4. Choose a Homework Space: Choosing a specific time and place to complete homework is essential. Many people underestimate the value of their study environment on their success. Find a clean desk, gather all the necessary materials, and create a focused study space.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively plan and schedule your child’s homework, maximizing their productivity and creating a conducive environment for successful studying.

See how Oxford Learning can help with assignments and homework.

Mastering Assignment Understanding

Understanding what the homework assignments are asking for is crucial. If your child is taking the wrong turn at the beginning can hinder their progress and prevent them from correctly completing their homework assignment. Similarly, you need to be more accurate with homework instructions to ensure your student’s grades.  

There’s a helpful trick to unravelling assignment requirements. When reading the task with your child, pay close attention to the following keywords; they act as clues to what your student needs to do.

Here’s a cheat sheet on how to find keywords:

• Name, Define, or Arrange: These words show that your student should get the necessary information and present it clearly and organized.
• Explain or Summarize: When encountering these words, your child’s task is to convey the information in their own words, providing a concise yet comprehensive understanding of the topic.
• Apply or Illustrate: Your student should use their knowledge to solve a problem or show how a concept can be implemented.
• Analyze, Contrast, or Examine: These keywords prompt your child to delve deeper, comparing various elements and exploring their connections. It requires a thorough examination and critical assessment.
• Evaluate or Predict: Here, your child is expected to draw conclusions based on their knowledge, critically analyze the information, and make informed judgments or predictions.
• Provide Examples: This entails finding supporting evidence to substantiate your student’s conclusions and using relevant examples to reinforce their points.

By focusing on these keywords, students will understand the assignment better and start working with a clear understanding of what is required. These tips help students meet the assignment expectations and get the best grades possible.

Breaking Down Homework Assignments

When students are faced with an overwhelming amount of work, it’s crucial to have a strategy to tackle it and minimize stress. Rather than hoping for the task to shrink magically, take proactive steps to break it into manageable parts. 

Here’s a practical approach to overcoming daunting homework assignments:

1. Create an Assignment List: Take a sheet of paper and write down all the tasks to complete, along with the deadlines. This list will serve as a visual representation of their workload.
2. Differentiate Between Easy and Hard Tasks: Assess each assignment and determine which ones are easier to do, need more effort, or pose a more significant challenge. Start with the more manageable tasks to build momentum and boost motivation.
3. Divide and Conquer: Break homework into smaller, manageable parts. Identify any sub-tasks or components that need to be completed for more manageable tasks. For the more challenging assignments, determine if they can be further divided into smaller steps or stages. This approach will make the workload appear less daunting and allow students to focus on one task at a time.
4. Take Well-Deserved Breaks: Take a break after completing a session or task. By beginning to work on assignments early enough, there will be time for rest and rejuvenation. These pauses are beneficial for maintaining productivity and contribute to a positive mood.

Adopting this systematic approach allows students to navigate assignments effectively without feeling overwhelmed. Breaking assignments down into manageable parts helps to maintain focus, build momentum, and experience a sense of accomplishment. Learn more on how to break down homework assignments.

Remember, with proper planning and perseverance, even the most challenging tasks can be conquered.

Overcoming Homework Difficulties

Difficulty with homework is a common challenge for many students. Finding effective ways to overcome these difficulties is crucial, whether it’s a lack of motivation or specific obstacles. 

Here are some common problems students encounter and strategies to address them:

Problem: Rushing through homework

Solution: When assignments feel tedious or repetitive, rushing through them is easy. However, this approach often leads to subpar work. 

To combat this, try the following:

• Mix Up the Order: Instead of completing tasks in the same sequence every time, change the order. This variation makes the process less monotonous and helps maintain focus.
• Break it Down: If a lengthy assignment feels overwhelming, break it into smaller, manageable parts. By tackling one section at a time, you can maintain productivity and avoid the temptation to rush.

Problem: Not able to do homework alone

Solution: Some students need help with home independently and require external support or company. 

To address this issue:

• Join a Study Group: Collaborating with peers working on homework assignments can provide the necessary motivation and companionship. Study groups allow for discussions, sharing of ideas, and clarifying doubts, enhancing the overall understanding of the material.
• Find a Tutor: Tutoring can significantly help students when they are having difficulty studying or doing homework alone. A tutor can solely be there as support for your child when they need help, and they can also help foster and develop your child’s homework and study habits.

Problem: Failing to retain information

Solution: Memorization can be challenging for some students, but effective strategies can significantly enhance retention. 

Consider the following approaches:

• Use Varied Presentation Methods: Instead of relying solely on large chunks of text, explore alternative ways to present and organize information. Experiment with mind maps, tables, graphs, or visual aids that help illustrate concept relationships and connections. This multisensory approach can improve comprehension and aid memory recall.
• Practice Active Learning Techniques: Instead of passively reading or reviewing material, engage in active learning strategies. This can include summarizing key points in their own words, teaching the concepts to someone else, or creating flashcards for self-quizzing. These methods encourage active engagement with the material and enhance retention.

Getting Help with Homework

When all the tips and tricks are being used, and homework still seems like an uphill battle, it’s time to turn to the experts.

Here are a few avenues to explore for homework assistance:

• Reach Out to Your Child’s Teacher: Their teacher should be your first point of contact when seeking guidance for your child’s homework. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or clarification. Approaching the teacher with questions is an essential step in getting involved in your child’s academic success.
• Find a Study Group or Study Buddy: Being part of a study group or having a study buddy allows your child to ask questions and engage in discussions with fellow students. Explaining concepts to others and hearing their perspectives can deepen your students’ understanding and will enable them to explore alternative memorization techniques. 
• Consider Getting a Tutor: A private tutor can offer personalized assistance tailored to your child’s specific needs. Invest in the support of a tutor to gain valuable insights and additional guidance.

Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a smart and proactive approach to overcoming challenges. With the proper support and guidance, your child will gain confidence, enhance their understanding, and succeed in their homework.

Consult with a professional tutor to get homework help.

The post Homework Help: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Here are some key tips to help slow-working students stay focused, motivated, and organized when completing their homework.

1. Establish a routine
2. Create a distraction-free environment 
3. Break down tasks
4. Use positive reinforcement 
5. Provide organizational support 
6. Consider a tutoring program
7. Practise patience

Tips to Help Slow-Working Students

1. Establish a Routine

Establishing a routine is among the most effective ways to help slow-working students. Many students thrive within the set boundaries an established routine provides. Set aside a specific time for homework and studying each day, and stick to it. This will help the student develop a habit of working consistently and will help them stay focused and on track.

2. Create a Distraction-Free Environment

Distractions can make it difficult for slow-working students to focus on their homework. Help them create a quiet and distraction-free environment for studying. Turn off the TV, limit phone use, and find a quiet place where they can work without interruptions. Learn how to create a distraction-free environment here. 

3. Break Down Tasks

Large tasks can be daunting and overwhelming, especially for slow-working students. Break down assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help the student stay motivated and avoid feeling discouraged.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for motivating slow-working students. Praise students for their effort and progress, and provide rewards for completing tasks. This will help them stay motivated and build confidence in their abilities. Reading more about praising effort here.

5. Provide Organizational Support

Slow-working students may need help with organization and time management. Provide organizational support by helping them create a study schedule, setting reminders for important deadlines, and helping them keep their study materials organized.

6. Consider Tutoring

Consider hiring a tutor if your child consistently struggles with homework and studying. A tutor can provide one-on-one support and help students stay on track with their studies. Check out these eight common myths about tutoring. 

7. Be Patient

It’s essential to be patient when working with students. Learning and progress take time, and it’s necessary to encourage and support the student along the way. Celebrate small victories and progress, and keep working towards long-term goals.

Does Your Slow-Working Student Need Help?  

Students can benefit significantly from focused and consistent support at home. Students can overcome challenges and achieve academic success by establishing a routine, creating a distraction-free environment, breaking down tasks, using positive reinforcement, providing organizational support, considering tutoring, and being patient.

Oxford Learning is here to help. Tutoring programs can help your child develop study and learning skills that will help set up your child for success for their entire life. 

Contact a location near you to learn more.

The post 7 Ways to Help Slow-Working Students appeared first on Oxford Learning.

There are both pros and cons to allowing students to redo their work. Some students may struggle with the concept or the workload, while others might have personal issues affecting their academic performance. In such cases, allowing students to redo their work can benefit both the student and the teacher. 

Here is why students should be allowed to redo their work and how it can be done effectively.

Why Students Should Be Allowed to Redo Their Homework

Encourages Growth and Learning

One of the primary reasons why students should be allowed to redo their work is that it encourages growth and learning. When students receive feedback on their work and are allowed to correct their mistakes, they learn from their mistakes and improve their understanding of the subject matter. This helps them retain information better and boost their confidence in their abilities.

Supports Mastery Learning

Mastery learning is an educational approach that focuses on ensuring that students have a deep and thorough understanding of a subject before moving on to the next topic. Allowing students to redo their work helps to support mastery learning. It also will enable them to demonstrate that they have mastered the material. This approach can also reduce the achievement gap between students needing more time to understand a concept and those who grasp it quickly.

Encourages Responsibility and Accountability

Redoing work requires students to take responsibility for their learning and be accountable for their mistakes. By allowing students to redo their work, teachers can help students to develop a sense of ownership over their academic performance. This can lead to increased motivation and engagement in the learning process.

Helps Teachers to Assess Student Learning More Accurately

When students are given the opportunity to redo their work, teachers can assess their learning more accurately. Instead of relying on one assignment or exam, teachers can see how the student progresses over time. This helps identify areas where the student is struggling and provides targeted support.

Keep reading: Get homework done right the first time with homework tips and tricks.

Guidelines for Effective Homework Redos and Retakes

Teachers need to establish clear guidelines and expectations to implement redos and retakes effectively. 

Guidelines for redoing work can include:

1. A Set Deadline: It is essential to set a deadline for students to request a redo or retake. For example, this can be a week after returning the assignment.
2. Provide Feedback: Teachers must provide detailed feedback on the initial assignment or exam so that students know what to work on.
3. Make it Worthwhile: Redos and retakes should be worth a certain percentage of the grade, but not so much that students will rely solely on the redo to pass.

Redoing school work can have many benefits, including encouraging growth and learning, supporting mastery learning, and promoting responsibility and accountability.

Does Your Child Need Help with Homework?  

We are here to help! Tutoring programs can help your child develop study and learning skills that will help set up your child for success for his or her entire life.
Contact a location near you to learn more.

The post Should Students be Allowed to Redo Their Work? appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Homework has long been a source of debate, with parents, educators, and education specialists debating the advantages of at-home study. There are many pros and cons of homework. We’ve examined a few significant points to provide you with a summary of the benefits and disadvantages of homework.

Check Out The Pros and Cons of Homework

Pro 1: Homework Helps to Improve Student Achievement

Homework teaches students various beneficial skills that they will carry with them throughout their academic and professional life, from time management and organization to self-motivation and autonomous learning. 

Homework helps students of all ages build critical study abilities that help them throughout their academic careers. Learning at home also encourages the development of good research habits while encouraging students to take ownership of their tasks.

If you’re finding that homework is becoming an issue at home, check out this article to learn how to tackle them before they get out of hand.

Con 1: Too Much Homework Can Negatively Affect Students 

You’ll often hear from students that they’re stressed out by schoolwork. Stress becomes even more apparent as students get into higher grade levels. 

A study conducted on high school student’s experiences found that high-achieving students found that too much homework leads to sleep deprivation and other health problems such as: 

• Headaches
• Exhaustion
• Weight loss 
• Stomach problems 

More than half of students say that homework is their primary source of stress, and we know what stress can do on our bodies.

It’s been shown that excessive homework can lead to cheating. With too much homework, students end up copying off one another in an attempt to finish all their assignments.

Pro 2: Homework Helps to Reinforce Classroom Learning

Homework is most effective when it allows students to revise what they learn in class. Did you know that students typically retain only 50% of the information teachers provide in class?

Students need to apply that information to learn it.

Homework also helps students develop key skills that they’ll use throughout their lives: 

• Accountability 
• Autonomy
• Discipline
• Time management
• Self-direction
• Critical thinking
• Independent problem-solving

The skills learned in homework can then be applied to other subjects and practical situations in students’ daily lives.

Con 2: Takes Away From Students Leisure Time

Children need free time. This free time allows children to relax and explore the world that they are living in. This free time also gives them valuable skills they wouldn’t learn in a classroom, such as riding a bike, reading a book, or socializing with friends and family. 

Having leisure time teaches kids valuable skills that cannot be acquired when doing their homework at a computer.

Plus, students need to get enough exercise. Getting exercise can improve cognitive function, which might be hindered by sedentary activities such as homework.

Pro 3: Homework Gets Parents Involved with Children’s Learning

Homework helps parents track what their children are learning in school. 

Also allows parents to see what their children’s academic strengths and weaknesses are. Homework can alert parents to any learning difficulties that their children might have, enabling them to provide assistance and modify their child’s learning approach as necessary.

Parents who help their children with homework will lead to higher academic performance, better social skills and behaviour, and greater self-confidence in their children.

Con 3: Homework Is Not Always Effective

Numerous researchers have attempted to evaluate the importance of homework and how it enhances academic performance. According to a study, homework in primary schools has a minimal effect since students pursue unrelated assignments instead of solidifying what they have already learned.

Mental health experts agree heavy homework loads have the capacity to do more harm than good for students. But they also say the answer may not be to eliminate homework altogether. So, unfortunately for students, homework is here to stay.

You can learn more about the pro and cons of homework here.

Need Help with Completing Homework Effectively?  

There are many pros and cons of homework, so let our tutors at Oxford Learning can help your family create great homework habits to ensure students are successful at homework.

Contact a location near you to get started today!

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