Dear Peer Pressure:

I have way too much homework, but I can’t get mad at my teachers for it.  How should I handle it all? 

— Loaded

SR: Your cry is common for the average middle- and high-school student. There is much controversy as to whether homework is in the best interest of students.

Some research indicates that homework doesn’t improve test scores, can be excessive and is viewed as ‘child labor’ by some parents.

Many parents believe kids should be kids and too much homework is a tension for the family. Even though homework can be used as a tool for reinforcing classroom learning, some parents are not comfortable with their level of expertise in teaching a subject at home or the amount of time that seems to rob the time needed for household chores, extracurricular activities or family projects.

Math teachers seem to give the most in homework assignments as a form of drill and practice.

Basically, there are some teachers who offer little homework; others are guilty of assigning “too much.”

If possible, while at school, try to finish homework during any “down” time. It is vital that some students receive peer helpers or tutoring to boost the completion process.

Most teachers that give “too much” homework eventually realize it and modify their process.

Good luck!

JPC: It can be tough when someone in authority puts you in a tight spot like that. One thing I suggest is to talk — not get mad at — but talk, in a calm, rational manner to your teachers and explain to them that the amount of homework they have been giving out lately has gotten too heavy and you were wondering if they had any suggestions on how to get it all done.

They could probably give you great tips on how to cope since they’re the ones assigning the homework, or they might even lessen the load once they see how much trouble you’re having trying to get all of it done.

Another thing I would do would be to get organized. I suggest a planner — I have one and it’s been a lifesaver. Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you I’m always covering the pages of my planner with everything from when my English paper’s due to what time I have dance practice. It’s a lot harder to feel overwhelmed when you have everything you have to do written down right there in front of you, and you may even find out it’s a lot less than you thought. Also, a planner can help you plan ahead, so you’re not leaving too many homework assignments for the night before they’re all due.

Organization is definitely the key. Good Luck!