Trong quá trình luyện tập IELTS Reading Practice, chủ đề Homework: benefits and drawbacks thường xuất hiện vì đây là một vấn đề quen thuộc trong giáo dục và dễ tạo ra nhiều góc nhìn khác nhau.

Khi xây dựng dàn ý cho chủ đề này, người học cần tập trung vào hai phần chính: lợi ích mà bài tập về nhà mang lại và những hạn chế có thể phát sinh. Ở phần lợi ích, bạn có thể đề cập đến việc homework giúp củng cố kiến thức đã học, phát triển tính tự giác và tạo cơ hội cho học sinh rèn luyện kỹ năng quản lý thời gian.

Ngược lại, phần drawbacks có thể bao gồm áp lực học tập quá mức, giảm thời gian nghỉ ngơi hoặc hạn chế cơ hội tham gia các hoạt động xã hội. Một dàn ý hiệu quả nên trình bày rõ ràng từng luận điểm, kèm theo ví dụ minh họa để tăng tính thuyết phục. Việc luyện tập với chủ đề này trong IELTS Reading Practice không chỉ giúp cải thiện kỹ năng đọc hiểu mà còn hỗ trợ người học phát triển tư duy phản biện và khả năng phân tích vấn đề một cách toàn diện

BÀI TẬP

Homework: Benefits and Drawbacks

Homework has long been a central feature of formal education systems around the world. From primary schools to universities, students are routinely assigned tasks to complete outside the classroom. Supporters argue that homework reinforces learning and promotes essential skills, while critics claim it places unnecessary pressure on students and has limited educational value. The debate over homework remains complex, with strong arguments on both sides.

One of the most commonly cited benefits of homework is its role in reinforcing classroom learning. Lessons taught during school hours are often limited by time constraints, making it difficult for teachers to ensure that every student fully understands the material. Homework provides an opportunity for learners to practise newly acquired knowledge, apply concepts independently, and identify areas where they may need further clarification. Repetition through homework can help consolidate understanding and improve long-term retention of information.

In addition to academic reinforcement, homework is often viewed as a tool for developing important life skills. Completing assignments outside school encourages students to manage their time effectively, meet deadlines, and take responsibility for their own learning. These skills are particularly valuable in higher education and the workplace, where independent study and self-discipline are essential. For older students, homework may also foster problem-solving abilities and critical thinking, especially when tasks require research or creative responses rather than simple memorisation.

Homework can also play a role in strengthening communication between schools and families. Parents who review or assist with homework gain insight into what their children are learning and how well they are progressing. This involvement can help parents support their children academically and emotionally. In some cases, homework serves as a bridge between home and school, allowing learning to continue beyond the classroom environment.

Despite these advantages, homework is not without its drawbacks. One major criticism is that excessive homework can contribute to stress and fatigue, particularly among younger students. Long hours spent completing assignments may reduce time available for rest, physical activity, and social interaction, all of which are essential for healthy development. Studies have shown that high levels of academic pressure can negatively affect students’ mental well-being and motivation to learn.

Another concern relates to inequality. Not all students have access to the same resources at home, such as quiet study spaces, internet connections, or parental support. As a result, homework can widen the achievement gap between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Those who lack support may struggle to complete assignments effectively, leading to frustration and lower academic performance, regardless of their potential.

The educational value of homework also depends heavily on its quality. Poorly designed assignments that focus on rote learning or repetitive tasks may offer little benefit and can lead to boredom or disengagement. In contrast, meaningful homework that encourages reflection, creativity, or real-world application is more likely to enhance learning. Critics argue that too much emphasis is placed on the quantity of homework rather than its purpose and effectiveness.

Furthermore, the impact of homework varies by age group. Research suggests that homework has limited benefits for primary school students, while moderate amounts can be more effective for secondary and older learners. Younger children often learn best through play and interaction, and excessive homework at an early age may reduce their natural curiosity. This has led some educators to call for homework policies that are tailored to students’ developmental stages.

In recent years, alternative approaches to homework have gained attention. Some schools have experimented with “homework-free” policies or replaced traditional assignments with reading, project-based learning, or optional enrichment activities. Others emphasise in-class practice, ensuring that students receive immediate feedback from teachers. These approaches aim to balance academic learning with students’ overall well-being.

In conclusion, homework has both clear benefits and significant drawbacks. While it can reinforce learning, develop valuable skills, and encourage parental involvement, it may also increase stress, deepen inequalities, and offer limited educational value if poorly designed. Rather than debating whether homework should exist at all, educators may benefit more from reconsidering how much homework is assigned, what form it takes, and how it aligns with students’ needs and abilities.

 Questions 1–5: Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D.

1. What is one main educational benefit of homework mentioned in the passage?

A. It replaces classroom teaching
B. It helps students memorise information without understanding
C. It allows students to practise and reinforce what they have learned
D. It reduces the role of teachers

2. How can homework help students beyond academic learning?

A. By improving physical fitness
B. By developing time management and responsibility
C. By reducing the need for examinations
D. By eliminating classroom instruction

3. What problem related to homework and equality is discussed?

A. Homework favours students with weaker academic ability
B. All students receive equal support at home
C. Differences in home resources can affect students’ performance
D. Homework is designed only for wealthy families

4. According to the passage, when is homework generally more effective?

A. For very young children
B. When large amounts are given daily
C. When it focuses on repetition only
D. For older students in moderate amounts

5. What is the writer’s overall view of homework?

A. Homework should be completely abolished
B. Homework is always harmful to students
C. Homework is beneficial only in primary education
D. Homework should be carefully designed and balanced

ĐÁP ÁN

1. C
2. B
3. C
4. D
5. D

Khi luyện tập với chủ đề Homework: benefits and drawbacks trong IELTS Reading Practice, người học có cơ hội nhìn nhận bài tập về nhà dưới nhiều khía cạnh khác nhau.

Việc hiểu rõ cả ưu điểm lẫn hạn chế giúp bạn phát triển tư duy cân bằng và lập luận chặt chẽ hơn. Đây cũng là nền tảng quan trọng để xử lý các dạng bài đọc học thuật, nơi yêu cầu khả năng phân tích và đánh giá thông tin. Nhìn chung, homework vẫn là một phần quan trọng của giáo dục, nhưng cần được áp dụng hợp lý để mang lại hiệu quả tối ưu.