Before attempting to answer the question, “How can I increase homework completion in my classroom?” You must first ask yourself, “Are you using homework to assess students’ learning, or is it reinforcing what you taught them in class?” Homework is meant to cement and practice concepts and skills that students have learned in the classroom, not for assessment or to introduce new concepts.

When used effectively, it can enhance learning outside the classroom and help students build crucial study habits. Here, we’ll explore strategies to encourage homework completion and make it a productive part of your toolkit as an educator.

Incorporate Student Interest

Recent research has found that aligning homework tasks with student preferences, such as technology-based platforms or relevant topics, can enhance academic achievement and reduce learning anxiety.

By creating an engaging, interactive homework experience for students, they are more likely to complete assignments because they enjoy the tasks. Consider creating a class website or using Google Classroom so students can discuss classroom concepts with their peers online.

Keep it Short and Simple

When assigning homework, consider short and simple tasks to help reinforce concepts learned. Students don’t need 20 math problems to demonstrate they understand the concepts learned; instead, try giving them two to three problems that focus on each core concept.

This will help reduce the chance of repetitive errors and make the assignment more manageable and less overwhelming for students. Plus, if students only have 10 problems to answer versus twenty, they are more likely to complete the assignment.

Create a Consistent Homework Routine

All students can benefit from having a consistent homework routine. For example, if you are an elementary teacher and teach all subjects you can have math homework due on Mondays and spelling homework due on Fridays.

Or give all homework assignments for the week on Monday and have them due on Friday. You can also make it so that if it’s turned in early students get extra credit.  Another idea is to have a choice board.

For example, write five homework assignments on the board on Monday, and have students choose three out of the five assignments to turn in by Friday. By having a consistent routine, students know what to expect and can plan accordingly. Additionally, the flexibility that you are offering by giving students homework at the beginning of the week or a choice board helps to promote responsibility and time management skills.

Consider Incentives

Giving incentives can be controversial because many individuals believe students shouldn’t get rewarded for completing tasks that they are expected to do to help them reinforce concepts they are learning in the classroom. However, others believe they can serve as positive reinforcement, especially for students who struggle with motivation.

If you are on the fence about this topic, then try and think of it like this: when you do well at your job you get paid. You may receive a bonus for meeting a deadline or get promoted for doing a job well done.  Just like in the real-world students too like to be rewarded for their efforts. Here are a few extrinsic motivators for students to complete their homework.

  • For everyday homework assignments that all students complete, the class earns a point. Once they reach 10 points, they earn something. Students can remind one another to turn in homework so their class can earn points.
  • Create cards that spell the word “homework.” Each time, everyone in the class turns in their homework, flip a letter of the word. If someone forgets their homework, start over. Once the word is spelled the class is rewarded.
  • Assign each student a number. Each day, the teacher draws a number, and if that student completes their homework, their number gets put into a “reward can.” At the end of the month, the teacher draws a number from the reward can, and that student is rewarded.
  • Create a homework chart. Each table or row receives a point each time they complete a homework assignment. This makes each student accountable for their peers. Students who have the most points can win a prize every six to eight weeks.
  • For older grades, pin classes against one another. Have each class compete to see who hands in the most homework in six weeks. The winners not only receive bragging rights but also a homework pass.

Use an Online Platform

Online platforms are a great way to support students in completing homework assignments because they are easily accessible and interactive, which makes them more enjoyable. Websites such as Khan Academy, offer free video tutorials and exercises in a wide range of subjects, helping students reinforce their learning at their own pace.

Other platforms, such as Quizlet or Google Classroom, allow students to collaborate, review key concepts, and manage assignments more effectively. These resources not only provide academic support but also foster self-directed learning, which makes doing homework more manageable and less stressful.

Increasing homework completion is all about finding the right mix of engaging content, manageable tasks, and consistent routines—sometimes adding an extra incentive, too. By incorporating student interest, keeping assignments short, and utilizing online resources, you can create a classroom atmosphere where students complete their homework regularly. Remember, the goal of homework is to reinforce learning.

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