This paper identifies three noncognitive domains relevant for academic achievement in K-12-- student engagement, behavioral learning strategies, and school climate. The paper also documents empirical findings that show relationships between these three noncognitive domains and academic achievement, especially in the areas of reading and…

Attitudes toward homework are explored through a review of research and interviews. The interviews were conducted with teachers, students, principals, and parents on the pros and cons of homework assignments. Included in the discussions were the kinds of homework assigned, reasons for the assignments, time spent on homework, and the effects of…

Described are two methods of classroom management that attempt to optimize the first few moments of the class period. One method focuses on using the prior day's homework, and the other uses new problems presented to the students to work on as they enter the classroom. (MDH)

A survey of eighth graders in 11 countries showed that countries whose students averaged the most homework (8 to 9 hours weekly) also had the highest average test scores. Swedish and U.S. students did the least homework (4 to 5 hours weekly) and had the lowest scores. Japan's system is praised and U.S. youth's TV-viewing habits deplored. (MLH)

To investigate the relationships between television watching, spare time reading, homework, and scholastic achievement, the National Assessment of Educational Progress gathered data on television viewing habits. Younger students were more avid viewers than older ones. Half the 9-year olds watched over 3 hours of television daily; most 13-year-olds…

This bulletin reviews selected research on the relationship of increased instructional time to student achievement. Different ways of increasing time are discussed, including lengthening the school year and the school day, reallocating time within the day to allow more time for instruction, improving teachers' management skills, and increasing…

This guide provides methods for parents to assist their children in homework. The first of the guide's 10 chapters discusses motivation. Looking at sources of motivation, reviewing study skill shaping strategies, learning about rewards, and accomplishment are addressed. The second chapter discusses communication. Considering message forms,…

This digest presents information for parents regarding science and math homework. The benefits of homework are discussed and guidelines for gauging the amount of time spent on homework are given. Suggestions for family policies and procedures for helping children complete homework assignments are also presented. (WRM)

Following a list of four reasons teachers assign homework, this guide discusses ways for parents to help children with successful completion of homework assignments including: (1) show that education and homework are important; (2) check on the child's work; (3) provide guidance; and (4) talk with someone at school if problems occur. The guide…

A four-stage model, designed to shape learning disabled students' independent study skills and foster generalization of skills is presented: (1) ease students into a homework routine; (2) focus on time management; (3) teach problem-solving techniques; and (4) conclude in independent study with intermittent parent and teacher monitoring. (CB)

An outline is presented of organizational procedures that teachers can use to maximize the use of classroom time. Specific guidelines are given on how to give homework assignments, how to communicate expectations regarding student work, how to distribute instructional materials, and how to allocate time among various classroom activities. Brief…

Eight papers are presented that describe the daily experience of White American children in grades 5 through 9. Each paper examines a segment of daily activity (e.g., schoolwork, talking, sports) and the associated affective states for 401 participants to provide a picture of the life space of early adolescence. (SLD)

Noting that parents are as important to children's success as teachers, this book suggests ways busy parents can support their children's learning. Chapter 1, "What's a Time-Starved Parent To Do?" discusses the demands on parents' free time, the child's role in learning, the parent's role in helping children learn, and the importance of parent…

This document analyzes responses to questions included in a national assessment of knowledge of U.S. history and geography in an attempt to determine the relationship between study habits and academic performance. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 1994 asked 4th-, 8th-, and 12th-grade students specific questions regarding…

This report presents results from eight Urban Systemic Initiative (USI) school district surveys conducted during 1999 and 2000. The Survey of Enacted Curriculum is the study component of a National Science Foundation grant on how reform works in USI districts. The study explores the impact of USI programs on student achievement and the learning…