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What’s the Right Amount of Homework?

Decades of research show that homework has some benefits, especially for students in middle and high school—but there are risks to assigning too much.

Many teachers and parents believe that homework helps students build study skills and review concepts learned in class. Others see homework as disruptive and unnecessary, leading to burnout and turning kids off to school. Decades of research show that the issue is more nuanced and complex than most people think: Homework is beneficial, but only to a degree. Students in high school gain the most, while younger kids benefit much less.

The National PTA and the National Education Association support the “ 10-minute homework guideline ”—a nightly 10 minutes of homework per grade level. But many teachers and parents are quick to point out that what matters is the quality of the homework assigned and how well it meets students’ needs, not the amount of time spent on it.

The guideline doesn’t account for students who may need to spend more—or less—time on assignments. In class, teachers can make adjustments to support struggling students, but at home, an assignment that takes one student 30 minutes to complete may take another twice as much time—often for reasons beyond their control. And homework can widen the achievement gap, putting students from low-income households and students with learning disabilities at a disadvantage.

However, the 10-minute guideline is useful in setting a limit: When kids spend too much time on homework, there are real consequences to consider.

Small Benefits for Elementary Students

As young children begin school, the focus should be on cultivating a love of learning, and assigning too much homework can undermine that goal. And young students often don’t have the study skills to benefit fully from homework, so it may be a poor use of time (Cooper, 1989 ; Cooper et al., 2006 ; Marzano & Pickering, 2007 ). A more effective activity may be nightly reading, especially if parents are involved. The benefits of reading are clear: If students aren’t proficient readers by the end of third grade, they’re less likely to succeed academically and graduate from high school (Fiester, 2013 ).

For second-grade teacher Jacqueline Fiorentino, the minor benefits of homework did not outweigh the potential drawback of turning young children against school at an early age, so she experimented with dropping mandatory homework. “Something surprising happened: They started doing more work at home,” Fiorentino writes . “This inspiring group of 8-year-olds used their newfound free time to explore subjects and topics of interest to them.” She encouraged her students to read at home and offered optional homework to extend classroom lessons and help them review material.

Moderate Benefits for Middle School Students

As students mature and develop the study skills necessary to delve deeply into a topic—and to retain what they learn—they also benefit more from homework. Nightly assignments can help prepare them for scholarly work, and research shows that homework can have moderate benefits for middle school students (Cooper et al., 2006 ). Recent research also shows that online math homework, which can be designed to adapt to students’ levels of understanding, can significantly boost test scores (Roschelle et al., 2016 ).

There are risks to assigning too much, however: A 2015 study found that when middle school students were assigned more than 90 to 100 minutes of daily homework, their math and science test scores began to decline (Fernández-Alonso, Suárez-Álvarez, & Muñiz, 2015 ). Crossing that upper limit can drain student motivation and focus. The researchers recommend that “homework should present a certain level of challenge or difficulty, without being so challenging that it discourages effort.” Teachers should avoid low-effort, repetitive assignments, and assign homework “with the aim of instilling work habits and promoting autonomous, self-directed learning.”

In other words, it’s the quality of homework that matters, not the quantity. Brian Sztabnik, a veteran middle and high school English teacher, suggests that teachers take a step back and ask themselves these five questions :

• How long will it take to complete?
• Have all learners been considered?
• Will an assignment encourage future success?
• Will an assignment place material in a context the classroom cannot?
• Does an assignment offer support when a teacher is not there?

More Benefits for High School Students, but Risks as Well

By the time they reach high school, students should be well on their way to becoming independent learners, so homework does provide a boost to learning at this age, as long as it isn’t overwhelming (Cooper et al., 2006 ; Marzano & Pickering, 2007 ). When students spend too much time on homework—more than two hours each night—it takes up valuable time to rest and spend time with family and friends. A 2013 study found that high school students can experience serious mental and physical health problems, from higher stress levels to sleep deprivation, when assigned too much homework (Galloway, Conner, & Pope, 2013 ).

Homework in high school should always relate to the lesson and be doable without any assistance, and feedback should be clear and explicit.

Teachers should also keep in mind that not all students have equal opportunities to finish their homework at home, so incomplete homework may not be a true reflection of their learning—it may be more a result of issues they face outside of school. They may be hindered by issues such as lack of a quiet space at home, resources such as a computer or broadband connectivity, or parental support (OECD, 2014 ). In such cases, giving low homework scores may be unfair.

Since the quantities of time discussed here are totals, teachers in middle and high school should be aware of how much homework other teachers are assigning. It may seem reasonable to assign 30 minutes of daily homework, but across six subjects, that’s three hours—far above a reasonable amount even for a high school senior. Psychologist Maurice Elias sees this as a common mistake: Individual teachers create homework policies that in aggregate can overwhelm students. He suggests that teachers work together to develop a school-wide homework policy and make it a key topic of back-to-school night and the first parent-teacher conferences of the school year.

Parents Play a Key Role

Homework can be a powerful tool to help parents become more involved in their child’s learning (Walker et al., 2004 ). It can provide insights into a child’s strengths and interests, and can also encourage conversations about a child’s life at school. If a parent has positive attitudes toward homework, their children are more likely to share those same values, promoting academic success.

But it’s also possible for parents to be overbearing, putting too much emphasis on test scores or grades, which can be disruptive for children (Madjar, Shklar, & Moshe, 2015 ). Parents should avoid being overly intrusive or controlling—students report feeling less motivated to learn when they don’t have enough space and autonomy to do their homework (Orkin, May, & Wolf, 2017 ; Patall, Cooper, & Robinson, 2008 ; Silinskas & Kikas, 2017 ). So while homework can encourage parents to be more involved with their kids, it’s important to not make it a source of conflict.

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The Best Primary Homework Help Parents Can Give Their Children

Ellie Williams

Figuring out how to help with primary homework is no mean feat. At times it can seem that your child’s school is handing out a never-ending stream of worksheets, books and tasks to tackle, and more often than not this leads to a sentence dreaded by most parents: “ Mum/Dad, I need help with my school homework! ”

Well, if just seeing that sentence written has brought back bad memories of figuring out fractions, mastering multiplication or dealing with division, you’ll be pleased to hear that we are here to help.

Research has shown that parental support can play a huge role in a child’s education, and with pressure mounting to support your child in their education it can all feel a little overwhelming for parents.

This doesn’t have to be the case though, and in this blog we will be looking at how you can help your child with their maths homework and make after school more enjoyable!

Blog Contents:

• What do parents need to know about primary school homework?
• Why is homework important for your child?

Understanding how much homework your child gets from their school

• Why parental engagement with homework is important
• Top tips to help with homework
• Reasons routine is important
• Why you should focus on the ‘can do’s’ rather than the cannot’s
• Why you shouldn’t worry if you don’t know the answers yourself!
• How you can create the perfect homework haven
• Mastering motivation for homework
• Homework hacks you can use to get the job done faster

What parents need to know about primary school homework

Before you think about how to help your child with their primary homework, it is important to understand a little more about why they have it in the first place.

How much homework they should be getting, how difficult it should be and the debate as to whether or not they should have any work to do at home in the first place are questions raised by parents everywhere, and they will all be answered here.

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A debate is raging in the world of primary education: Why is homework important for your child? vs Why it may not be!

A battle that has been blazing for as long as homework has been handed out to primary school children, the question of whether or not additional after school work is beneficial to children is one without a clear answer.

Back in 2018, the homework debate rose up again amongst Twitter users – some famous, some infamous, and a few regular Joe’s – about the necessity of homework for primary school children.

Gary Lineker of Walker crisp and football fame was of the opinion that children “ should be allowed to play and enjoy home-life with their parents ”, a sentiment that was shared by headteachers also on the platform.

On the other end of the scale, opinions brought to the fore by Piers Morgan included:

• That by removing homework from the equation altogether, the UK’s educational standards would fall further behind the likes of China; and That when homework is made to be interesting and productive, 100% of students of any age will be receptive to it
• Piers’ viewpoint, whilst not arrived at in quite the same manner, was also shared by Katherine Birbalsingh, Founding Headteacher of the Michela School so it did have some educational heft behind it as well.

With parents, teachers and many others still split on the merits of homework for primary school children, it appears that the debate will continue long into the future…

But one thing is sure: homework is here to stay for the foreseeable future.

Whilst this is a tricky topic to cover since each school has a different policy, there is one simple place to begin, and it is by answering the following question:

Is homework compulsory in primary schools?

No. Homework is not compulsory in primary schools, but it is recommended and encouraged by the government. The guidelines set out by the government state that children should be doing homework from the day they begin primary school.

This is however, not a legal requirement from the schools themselves.

The government has given schools the ability to set their own homework policy, and this means that it will vary from school to school. Some schools may choose to have no homework for their pupils, whilst other schools may choose to have daily homework.

With their being no set and fast rule for the amount of homework your child can receive, it is up to you as a parent to ensure that you understand the homework policy of your child’s school.

However, the government has set out some guidelines as to how long children should spend on their homework depending on their age:

It is worth remembering that these guidelines are simply that – and if you feel that your child is getting too much/not enough homework then there are a few things you can do:

• Visit the school’s website and find their homework policy to get a clearer understanding of how much your child should be getting
• Speak to the your child’s teacher about the amount of homework they are receiving

Parental engagement in homework is key in helping your child get the most from their education

For many parents, helping children with homework is something that they would gladly remove from their daily schedule. However, if your child does receive homework then helping them with it can be extremely beneficial to them.

Research into the effect of parental engagement in homework has found that ‘ parent’s homework involvement appears to influence student success insofar as it supports student attributes related to achievement (e.g., attitudes about homework, perceptions of personal competence, self-regulatory skills ).’

Put simply, this means that if you hear that all too familiar cry of “ I don’t know how to do question 6 on my maths homework… ” or “ I don’t understand it ” coming from the living room after school, stepping in to help is definitely the best solution, as it will benefit your child in the long run.

Just remember, a cup of tea can always be heated up…

Fortunately, there are a vast number of ways that you can help your child with maths homework, and we will delve into some of the best ones now!

How to help your child with maths homework: Top parental tips for helping with homework

Without further ado, it’s time to look at the top ways that parents can help with homework!

Ensure that routine and structure are the order of the day, everyday

We know that during the journey home from school and the subsequent rush to settle down in front of the television upon arrival, homework can be cast aside in young minds. However, one of the simplest ways you can help your child with their homework is by never giving them the chance to ‘forget’ about their homework.

By introducing a simple after-school routine, you’ll be able to eliminate the inevitable time wasting that can come during this period of the day, and homework can be completed swiftly and with relative ease.

There are of course always going to be days when your child isn’t keen to get the pen and paper out upon their return home, but by setting a (relatively) regimented and strict after how to help school routine, you will be able to make the transition from school work to homework much smoother.

Set time aside each day, or every other day depending on the amount of homework your child is given, and make sure that homework is the only thing on the agenda during this timeframe.

It is very important though, to include breaks during homework time too. Not only are concentration levels at primary school age somewhat fleeting, but research shows that taking breaks when working makes you more productive.

So although it might sound contradictory, a quick 10-minute game or snack break every half an hour or so will ensure that your child refocuses and has time to reset – meaning homework is completed faster not slower!

Routine breeds habit, and with habit comes a desire to get the work done in a quick and pain-free matter.

Fail to plan and you are planning to fail, so get your after-school routine checklist here

Having a visual representation of what you expect your child to do after school pinned to the fridge or wall is a great way to reinforce the routine you want them to get into, and it can help you both focus on the event that is supposed to be happening at one particular moment in time.

Whether it be homework, swimming or even walking the dog, if it’s on the checklist, it needs to be done.

In a nutshell: Why routine is important when helping with homework

Without a regular after-school routine in place, chances are you will be met with a whole host of objections when you mention the dreaded ‘h’ word. If however your child knows that their after school routine looks a little like this:

3.45-4.00pm: Time for homework 4.00-4.15pm: A break on their iPad or watch the tv 4.15-4.30pm: Back to their homework to finish it off 4.30pm onwards: Time to play!

You should find them to be a lot more open to completing their work as they know that there is always a break on the horizon.

It certainly isn’t a one size fits all approach, but with some tinkering you should be able to find a routine that works for your child.

• How You Can Create Amazing Before And After School Routines For your Child
• The Best Homework Hacks – 18 Tips and Tricks to Help You Get It Done Fast
• 13 Fun Homework Ideas: How to Make Homework Fun for Kids

Focus on the I can do’s rather than the I cannot’s

For many, maths was one of the more difficult subjects at school and it can still prove tricky to tackle even in adulthood.

But whilst you may still find fractions frustrating or addition arduous, it is very important for your child’s mathematical development that you avoid telling them “ I just can’t do maths. ”

This may seem a throwaway comment that busy and often overwhelmed parents make when maths homework is being completed, but it does not bode well with children.

Young minds look towards their parents for advice and guidance on everything, and this means that if they see you being negative about maths, they will often think it’s okay to react in a similar fashion.

Fortunately, the solution is simple – although it may take a bit of practice at the beginning.

Even if the thought of helping your child with an algebra worksheet fills you with dread, or assisting with long division makes you wish you’d paid more attention in your maths lessons, try to remain as positive as possible.

Chances are you know more about maths than you think you do, and you are probably using an awful lot in your everyday life without even realising.

Making sure the total amount on the supermarket receipt is right? That’s maths. Budgeting for the month after payday? That’s maths. Measuring weights when preparing the family dinner? That’s maths.

The list above could go on and on forever, but the point is that even when you find yourself staring at a homework sheet your child has been given and thinking “ I can’t do maths ”, the best thing you can do to help your child with their maths homework is to turn around and announce that you can both do maths and are going to work it out together!

But how can I do this if I’m not sure of the answer to the question?

There will of course always be occasions when you just don’t know how to answer one of the questions on a piece of homework.

As a parent your child will expect you to know everything from who was the third person to climb Everest (Ernst Schmied for anyone who is wondering) through to the answer to question 15 on their maths homework, but you’ll be pleased to hear that being stumped by a question may actually be helpful when your child is learning .

Children respond well to the opportunity to work together with their parents, (and even better to the opportunity to show up mum or dad when they know something you don’t) and when you are supporting each other to work out the answer to a particularly tricky question, you may find that they retain this piece of knowledge better than they otherwise would.

In a nutshell: Why you should avoid saying that you can’t do maths around your child

Something popular amongst educators is the theory of a growth mindset. This theory advocates the idea that both intelligence and ability are not fixed, and that through hard work and determination, brains and talent are just the starting point for educational development.

This is a fantastic approach to take with your child, so when helping them with their maths homework replace “I can’t do maths” with “I’m not sure how to answer that question, let’s work it out together” and you will soon see the results.

Take the time to create the perfect environment for studying

With toys, pets, televisions and 1001 other distractions to keep a young mind away from their homework, the average house is often not the best place to get work done.

For a child looking for an excuse not to do their homework, all of the above can be the reason they give as to why it’s 5.30pm and they have only answered a quarter of the maths questions they were supposed to.

Fortunately, it is very easy to create an environment for your child that is conducive to learning, and all it takes is a little preparation on your behalf.

How parents can create a homework haven for their child

Step 1: Find the most secluded and quiet area of your home.

Step 2: Remove televisions, pets, annoying siblings and even computers (unless they are needed for research) from the newfound homework hideaway.

Step 3: This is a fantastic chance for you to bring your child in on the design of their homework haven. Use your combined design skills to make this an area that really stands out from the rest of the house, and one that your child is going to want to do their work in.

If your son or daughter feels that fairy lights will help them think then get them up on the wall.

If they would prefer to sit on a bean bag rather than that infamously uncomfortable desk chair that’s in the spare room, see if you can source one from somewhere. (Gumtree is a great place to start!)

The idea here is not to create a generic work environment for your child with a desk, chair and pen pot. The idea is to create something that will work for them and act as an incentive for them to go and do their work.

If you are however struggling for design ideas, take a look at Pinterest for some inspiration. Just make sure you don’t get drawn in by the overambitious and unrealistic cool creations on there.

Nobody’s asking you to create a life size mural of an elephant on the wall to help with science homework, or to write the 12 times tables out with a calligraphy pen. Fairy lights and a comfy seat are a good enough place to start….

Step 4: Make sure that all of the equipment your child will need is within arms reach. This is a quick win when helping children with homework as it means that rather than spending 10 minutes ‘looking’ for their ruler, it is already there and ready to use.

Step 5: Make sure you are never too far away from any potential calls for help. If your homework hideaway is upstairs and you’ve popped downstairs to get to work on the dinner, ensure you can still hear any homework help requests that come your way. Ignore these at your peril as an unanswered cry for help can quickly turn into an incomplete piece of homework…

By creating a special space within which homework can be completed, you will remove both the distractions and stress that can come with it.

In a nutshell: Why a space specifically for homework is important

It can be difficult to remember back to being a 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11-year-old student, but trust us when we say that at that this age, distractions can be found everywhere. That is why is is crucial to create a space for your child, free from any disturbances or interruptions, that will help them get on with their maths homework.

How to help your child with homework: Make sure you motivate your child by ensuring that maths homework is fun

If you were someone who disliked homework when you were at school, then ‘making homework fun’ may sound like something of an oxymoron. Years ago, a worksheet full of sums and numbers would have been the only thing that made it from the classroom to your home, but nowadays, things are thankfully very different.

Primary school homework may not always come in the form of a worksheet or a page from a textbook. Many teachers like to give their class more abstract tasks such as “work on your times tables” or “test yourself on the addition work we did today in class”.

It is with these types of homework tasks that you really have a chance to shine and motivate your child by making maths fun!

There are a whole host of ways you can bring maths to life at home, and they include:

• Making up your own songs and rhymes about numbers and times tables in particular
• Sitting down together to work out household budgets (perhaps including an increase in pocket money if the dishes are washed on a regular basis)
• Getting help with the weekly food shop and the amounts food will cost
• Using car journeys to test maths skills

These are of course just some of the things you can do to improve your child’s maths skills at home, whilst making things more fun than simply sitting down and writing. If you want to find out other top tips and tricks for fun homework help, take a look at our blog about 5 ways to encourage real life maths.

Or if you’re looking for specific activities, try our list of home learning resources , all free to download and use!

Maths outside can be fun as well!

Another great way parents can help with homework is by taking learning outside. If you have an active child then times tables hopscotch can be an effective method of helping them master multiplication.

In a similar vein, if you have a child who loves to explore and immerse themselves in the great outdoors, then outdoor addition and subtraction may be the way to go.

Motivating children to do work when at home can be difficult after a long day at school, but with a little perseverance and creativity on your part it is certainly achievable.

In a nutshell: Motivation and fun are key when it is time for homework

Put simply, if your child isn’t motivated to do the work in front of them then you are facing an almighty uphill battle from the offset. Try bringing a bit of fun into maths, and as well as your child enjoying their work a lot more, you’ll also see that helping kids with homework can be fun for you too!

Why not try downloading some fun topical maths activities and games from the internet for free to spice up learning at home, like this one? Plus, if you sign up to our newsletter we send fun resources every week that will help keep your child engaged in maths and mean you don’t have to go searching the internet for any!

Where you can find out more about ways to make maths fun

For the adventurous parent and child duo, take a look at our top 13 outdoor maths activities .

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to help your child work on their number facts, then our post on 10 minute maths at home: number facts paper flip is the blog for you!

Use homework hacks to get the work done faster

Most parents know that when a good parenting hack appears they would be wise to grab it with both hands as they can prove to be as rare as a dragon riding a unicorn.

It is the same for homework hacks.

With so many of them available on the internet it can be hard to know which ones are right for you, and more importantly which ones will work for your child.

Let’s face it, the “you can stay up 15 minutes later tomorrow” trick doesn’t work on kids anymore as they are catching onto the fact that tomorrow never comes…

It can be the small but simple things that you may never think of as a busy parent that can make the difference when your child is doing their homework. Examples include:

• Getting some outside help with your child’s maths
• Boost brain power with healthy snacks – dried fruit and nuts are a winner!
• Take advantage of something that is often not common knowledge in a school…The homework club

In a nutshell: Anything that can speed up the process should be used!

We know that the words ‘homework hacks’ can bring up the same tired clichés in your head, and that they you probably feel that you have seen them all before.

Rewarding your child after they have completed their homework is something that is very obvious and probably in every list of homework hacks (ours included), but that is because it is an important thing to do after every good homework session.

However, for every ‘rewarding your child’ homework hack, there will be one that you’ll never have heard before, and who knows, it could be the one that revolutionised homework time in your household!

Where you can find out some top homework hacks

Bring the things your child loves into the world of maths homework

Laptops, computers, iPads and phones. These are all things that we recommended putting away earlier in this post. However, when the times is right they can be extremely powerful tools in the battle to help your child with their homework.

Nowadays, for every shoot’em up and sports-based game that can be found online, there are an equal number of educational apps, websites and games that you can use to motivate your child to do homework.

A session on Primary Games Arena after completing their homework, or some time spent on Times Tables Rockstars as a reward for finishing some maths revision are both fantastic ways to channel child’s desire to enter the online world after school.

With so many incredible education sites and apps out there, you are bound to find one that you can use to help your child cement whichever topic they have been working on in their homework.

In a nutshell: Don’t be scared of online games, they can be a useful tool

Don’t be afraid to say yes when your child asks if they can play a game after they have completed their homework. As long as you keep control over which site they are visiting and which games are being played, you will be able to use them to truly cement what they have just been going over in their homework.

There is nothing wrong with a game or two of Fortnite every now and again too, and this gives you another amazing chance to bring some real-life maths into the equation…

Where you can find a list of the best free maths homework help sites

With such an abundance of websites out there, it can be a little tricky to know which ones are worth your time. Fortunately, we have done all of the research for you and created a list of the 10 best free maths homework help websites and apps for you to peruse at your leisure.

You now have an arsenal full of educational weapons, ready to help you win the homework war

We know that it can feel like an uphill battle to get your child to do their homework after a long day at school. They’re often tired and on the lookout for something more interesting to do, but with the tips, tricks and advice discussed in this blog, you should have more of an idea of how to help your child with homework meaning things should begin to feel a little easier come 3.15pm.

It will take some time to find out what works best for your child when it comes to helping them with homework, so don’t be disheartened if the first thing you try doesn’t work as we promise that things will eventually fall into place.

It is always worth remembering that one of the most important things you can do as a parent to help turn the tide in the homework war is to spend time helping your child with their homework, however you choose to do it, as one-to-one interaction is one of the best ways to learn.

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The beginner's guide to primary-school homework

What’s the point of homework?

For many families, homework is a nightly battle, but primary schools set it for a variety of reasons. ‘It helps to consolidate the skills that are being taught at school, and provides children with additional revision opportunities,’ explains head teacher Steph Matthews of St Paul’s CofE School, Gloucester .

‘It also gives children an opportunity to explore learning in an unstructured setting, encouraging them to be independent and follow their own lines of enquiry.’ In addition, homework creates a partnership between school and family, giving parents an insight into what their child is learning.

How much homework should my child get in primary school?

In the past, the Department for Education advised that Key Stage 1 children should do an hour of homework each week, rising to half an hour per night in Key Stage 2. This advice was scrapped in 2012, giving schools more freedom, but many still follow the old guidelines.

In Reception , formal homework is rarely set. However, children are likely to bring home books to share with the family, first reading books, and/or keywords to learn.

In Years 1 and 2 , children are likely to have one or two tasks per week. This could be literacy or numeracy worksheets (for example an exercise where children have to compare the weights of different household items), a short piece of writing (such as a recount of a school trip) or work relating to the class topic (find out five facts about the Great Fire of London ).

In Years 3 and 4 , most schools set two homework activities each week: typically, one literacy (such as a worksheet on collective nouns, or a book review ) and one numeracy (a worksheet on bar charts).

In Years 5 and 6 , children may have two or three pieces of homework each week. ‘The amount begins to increase to prepare children for SATs and the transition to secondary school,’ says Steph. These activities might include maths worksheets, researching a topic, book reviews and grammar exercises.

Alongside formal homework tasks, most children bring home reading scheme books from Reception onwards, with weekly spellings and times tables from Year 1 or 2.

Learning logs and homework challenges

Not all schools rely on handing out worksheets. Learning logs or challenges are becoming more popular: children are given a folder of suggested activities – from writing a poem to building a model castle – and must choose a certain number to complete throughout the term.

Other schools ensure that homework ties in with the current class topic. ‘We have a themed approach, and set homework activities that give opportunities to explore the topic in a fun way, for example, designing a method of transport that Phileas Fogg could use to travel the world,’ explains Steph.  

Modern homework methods

Unsurprisingly, technology is playing an increasingly important part in homework. Some schools use online reading schemes such as Bug Club , where teachers allocate e-books of the appropriate level, or subscription services like SAM Learning  to set cross-curricular tasks.

A growing number also set homework electronically , with children logging into the school website to download their task.

What if the homework is too much – or too hard?

If you feel your child is overloaded with homework, speak to the teacher. ‘Forcing children to complete homework is counterproductive, because they come to perceive it as a chore,’ says Rod Grant, head teacher of Clifton Hall School, Edinburgh . ‘This makes learning appear boring, arduous or both, and that is really dangerous, in my view.’

Most schools publish their homework policy on the school website , telling parents exactly what to expect. ‘Teachers should make their expectations very clear in terms of deadlines and how long it should take, and should also differentiate tasks to suit the level of the pupil,’ adds Steph.

No homework at all?

If your child doesn’t get any homework, you may feel out of touch with his learning, or concerned that he isn’t being challenged. But there are good reasons why some schools don’t set homework, or set it only occasionally, says Rod. ‘Although homework can be beneficial, family life tends to suffer as a result of it being imposed,’ he explains. ‘ If a school isn’t providing homework, there’s plenty that parents can do at home instead : reading with their children, doing number puzzles on car journeys, using online resources, and so on.’

Parents may also worry that without doing homework, children won’t develop study habits for later life. ‘There is genuinely no need for a six-year-old to get into a routine of working at home; there’s time to learn that later,’ Rod advises. ‘Parents need to relax and encourage children to love learning – and that comes when learning is fun, relevant and engaging, not through doing homework tasks that are unchallenging, or secretarial in nature.’

Homework: advice and support for primary-school parents

For information and support on all aspects of homework, from managing other siblings to helping with specific subjects, head to our Homework area.

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Other High School , General Education

Listen: we know homework isn’t fun, but it is a good way to reinforce the ideas and concepts you’ve learned in class. But what if you’re really struggling with your homework assignments?

If you’ve looked online for a little extra help with your take-home assignments, you’ve probably stumbled across websites claiming to provide the homework help and answers students need to succeed . But can homework help sites really make a difference? And if so, which are the best homework help websites you can use? 

Below, we answer these questions and more about homework help websites–free and paid. We’ll go over: 

• The basics of homework help websites
• The cost of homework help websites 
• The five best homework websites out there 
• The pros and cons of using these websites for homework help 
• The line between “learning” and “cheating” when using online homework help 
• Tips for getting the most out of a homework help website

So let’s get started! 

The Basics About Homework Help Websites–Free and Paid

Homework help websites are designed to help you complete your homework assignments, plain and simple. 

What Makes a Homework Help Site Worth Using

Most of the best sites allow users to ask questions and then provide an answer (or multiple possible answers) and explanation in seconds. In some instances, you can even send a photo of a particular assignment or problem instead of typing the whole thing out! 

Homework help sites also offer more than just help answering homework questions. Common services provided are Q&A with experts, educational videos, lectures, practice tests and quizzes, learning modules, math solving tools, and proofreading help. Homework help sites can also provide textbook solutions (i.e. answers to problems in tons of different textbooks your school might be using), one-on-one tutoring, and peer-to-peer platforms that allow you to discuss subjects you’re learning about with your fellow students. 

And best of all, nearly all of them offer their services 24/7, including tutoring! 

What You Should Should Look Out For

When it comes to homework help, there are lots–and we mean lots –of scam sites out there willing to prey on desperate students. Before you sign up for any service, make sure you read reviews to ensure you’re working with a legitimate company. 

A word to the wise: the more a company advertises help that veers into the territory of cheating, the more likely it is to be a scam. The best homework help websites are going to help you learn the concepts you’ll need to successfully complete your homework on your own. (We’ll go over the difference between “homework help” and “cheating” a little later!) 

You don't need a golden piggy bank to use homework help websites. Some provide low or no cost help for students like you!

How Expensive Are the Best Homework Help Websites?

First of all, just because a homework help site costs money doesn’t mean it’s a good service. Likewise, just because a homework help website is free doesn’t mean the help isn’t high quality. To find the best websites, you have to take a close look at the quality and types of information they provide! 

When it comes to paid homework help services, the prices vary pretty widely depending on the amount of services you want to subscribe to. Subscriptions can cost anywhere from $2 to $150 dollars per month, with the most expensive services offering several hours of one-on-one tutoring with a subject expert per month.

The 5 Best Homework Help Websites 

So, what is the best homework help website you can use? The answer is that it depends on what you need help with. 

The best homework help websites are the ones that are reliable and help you learn the material. They don’t just provide answers to homework questions–they actually help you learn the material. 

That’s why we’ve broken down our favorite websites into categories based on who they’re best for . For instance, the best website for people struggling with math might not work for someone who needs a little extra help with science, and vice versa. 

Keep reading to find the best homework help website for you! 

Best Free Homework Help Site: Khan Academy

• Price: Free!
• Best for: Practicing tough material 

Not only is Khan Academy free, but it’s full of information and can be personalized to suit your needs. When you set up your account , you choose which courses you need to study, and Khan Academy sets up a personal dashboard of instructional videos, practice exercises, and quizzes –with both correct and incorrect answer explanations–so you can learn at your own pace. 

As an added bonus, it covers more course topics than many other homework help sites, including several AP classes.

Runner Up: Brainly.com offers a free service that allows you to type in questions and get answers and explanations from experts. The downside is that you’re limited to two answers per question and have to watch ads. 

Best Paid Homework Help Site: Chegg

• Price: $14.95 to $19.95 per month
• Best for: 24/7 homework assistance  

This service has three main parts . The first is Chegg Study, which includes textbook solutions, Q&A with subject experts, flashcards, video explanations, a math solver, and writing help. The resources are thorough, and reviewers state that Chegg answers homework questions quickly and accurately no matter when you submit them.  

Chegg also offers textbook rentals for students who need access to textbooks outside of their classroom. Finally, Chegg offers Internship and Career Advice for students who are preparing to graduate and may need a little extra help with the transition out of high school. 

Another great feature Chegg provides is a selection of free articles geared towards helping with general life skills, like coping with stress and saving money. Chegg’s learning modules are comprehensive, and they feature solutions to the problems in tons of different textbooks in a wide variety of subjects. 

Runner Up: Bartleby offers basically the same services as Chegg for $14.99 per month. The reason it didn’t rank as the best is based on customer reviews that say user questions aren’t answered quite as quickly on this site as on Chegg. Otherwise, this is also a solid choice!

Best Site for Math Homework Help: Photomath

• Price: Free (or $59.99 per year for premium services) 
• Best for: Explaining solutions to math problems

This site allows you to t ake a picture of a math problem, and instantly pulls up a step-by-step solution, as well as a detailed explanation of the concept. Photomath also includes animated videos that break down mathematical concepts to help you better understand and remember them. 

The basic service is free, but for an additional fee you can get extra study tools and learn additional strategies for solving common math problems.

Runner Up: KhanAcademy offers in-depth tutorials that cover complex math topics for free, but you won’t get the same tailored help (and answers!) that Photomath offers. 

Best Site for English Homework Help: Princeton Review Academic Tutoring

• Price: $40 to $153 per month, depending on how many hours of tutoring you want 
• Best for: Comprehensive and personalized reading and writing help 

While sites like Grammarly and Sparknotes help you by either proofreading what you write via an algorithm or providing book summaries, Princeton Review’s tutors provide in-depth help with vocabulary, literature, essay writing and development, proofreading, and reading comprehension. And unlike other services, you’ll have the chance to work with a real person to get help. 

The best part is that you can get on-demand English (and ESL) tutoring from experts 24/7. That means you can get help whenever you need it, even if you’re pulling an all-nighter! 

This is by far the most expensive homework site on this list, so you’ll need to really think about what you need out of a homework help website before you commit. One added benefit is that the subscription covers over 80 other subjects, including AP classes, which can make it a good value if you need lots of help!  

Best Site for STEM Homework Help: Studypool

• Best for: Science homework help
• Price: Varies; you’ll pay for each question you submit

When it comes to science homework help, there aren’t a ton of great resources out there. The best of the bunch is Studypool, and while it has great reviews, there are some downsides as well. 

Let’s start with the good stuff. Studypool offers an interesting twist on the homework help formula. After you create a free account, you can submit your homework help questions, and tutors will submit bids to answer your questions. You’ll be able to select the tutor–and price point–that works for you, then you’ll pay to have your homework question answered. You can also pay a small fee to access notes, lectures, and other documents that top tutors have uploaded. 

The downside to Studypool is that the pricing is not transparent . There’s no way to plan for how much your homework help will cost, especially if you have lots of questions! Additionally, it’s not clear how tutors are selected, so you’ll need to be cautious when you choose who you’d like to answer your homework questions.  

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Homework Help Sites?

Homework help websites can be a great resource if you’re struggling in a subject, or even if you just want to make sure that you’re really learning and understanding topics and ideas that you’re interested in. But, there are some possible drawbacks if you don’t use these sites responsibly. 

We’ll go over the good–and the not-so-good–aspects of getting online homework help below. 

3 Pros of Using Homework Help Websites 

First, let’s take a look at the benefits. 

#1: Better Grades Beyond Homework

This is a big one! Getting outside help with your studies can improve your understanding of concepts that you’re learning, which translates into better grades when you take tests or write essays. 

Remember: homework is designed to help reinforce the concepts you learned in class. If you just get easy answers without learning the material behind the problems, you may not have the tools you need to be successful on your class exams…or even standardized tests you’ll need to take for college. 

#2: Convenience

One of the main reasons that online homework help is appealing is because it’s flexible and convenient. You don’t have to go to a specific tutoring center while they’re open or stay after school to speak with your teacher. Instead, you can access helpful resources wherever you can access the internet, whenever you need them.

This is especially true if you tend to study at off hours because of your extracurriculars, work schedule, or family obligations. Sites that offer 24/7 tutoring can give you the extra help you need if you can’t access the free resources that are available at your school. 

#3: Variety

Not everyone learns the same way. Maybe you’re more of a visual learner, but your teacher mostly does lectures. Or maybe you learn best by listening and taking notes, but you’re expected to learn something just from reading the textbook . 

One of the best things about online homework help is that it comes in a variety of forms. The best homework help sites offer resources for all types of learners, including videos, practice activities, and even one-on-one discussions with real-life experts. 

This variety can also be a good thing if you just don’t really resonate with the way a concept is being explained (looking at you, math textbooks!).

Not so fast. There are cons to homework help websites, too. Get to know them below!

3 Cons of Using Homework Help Websites 

Now, let’s take a look at the drawbacks of online homework help. 

#1: Unreliable Info

This can be a real problem. In addition to all the really good homework help sites, there are a whole lot of disreputable or unreliable sites out there. The fact of the matter is that some homework help sites don’t necessarily hire people who are experts in the subjects they’re talking about. In those cases, you may not be getting the accurate, up-to-date, and thorough information you need.

Additionally, even the great sites may not be able to answer all of your homework questions. This is especially true if the site uses an algorithm or chatbot to help students…or if you’re enrolled in an advanced or college-level course. In these cases, working with your teacher or school-provided tutors are probably your best option. 

#2: No Clarification

This depends on the service you use, of course. But the majority of them provide free or low-cost help through pre-recorded videos. Watching videos or reading info online can definitely help you with your homework… but you can’t ask questions or get immediate feedback if you need it .

#3: Potential For Scamming 

Like we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of homework help websites out there, and lots of them are scams. The review comments we read covered everything from outdated or wrong information, to misleading claims about the help provided, to not allowing people to cancel their service after signing up. 

No matter which site you choose to use, make sure you research and read reviews before you sign up–especially if it’s a paid service! 

When Does “Help” Become “Cheating”?

Admittedly, whether using homework help websites constitutes cheating is a bit of a grey area. For instance, is it “help” when a friend reads your essay for history class and corrects your grammar, or is it “cheating”? The truth is, not everyone agrees on when “help” crosses the line into “cheating .” When in doubt, it can be a good idea to check with your teacher to see what they think about a particular type of help you want to get. 

That said, a general rule of thumb to keep in mind is to make sure that the assignment you turn in for credit is authentically yours . It needs to demonstrate your own thoughts and your own current abilities. Remember: the point of every homework assignment is to 1) help you learn something, and 2) show what you’ve learned. 

So if a service answers questions or writes essays for you, there’s a good chance using it constitutes cheating. 

Here’s an example that might help clarify the difference for you. Brainstorming essay ideas with others or looking online for inspiration is “help” as long as you write the essay yourself. Having someone read it and give you feedback about what you need to change is also help, provided you’re the one that makes the changes later. 

But copying all or part of an essay you find online or having someone write (or rewrite) the whole thing for you would be “cheating.” The same is true for other subjects. Ultimately, if you’re not generating your own work or your own answers, it’s probably cheating.

5 Tips for Finding the Best Homework Help Websites for You

Now that you know some of our favorite homework help websites, free and paid, you can start doing some additional research on your own to decide which services might work best for you! Here are some top tips for choosing a homework help website. 

Tip 1: Decide How You Learn Best 

Before you decide which site or sites you’re going to use for homework help, y ou should figure out what kind of learning style works for you the most. Are you a visual learner? Then choose a site that uses lots of videos to help explain concepts. If you know you learn best by actually doing tasks, choose a site that provides lots of practice exercises.

Tip 2: Determine Which Subjects You Need Help With

Just because a homework help site is good overall doesn’t mean that it’s equally good for every subject. If you only need help in math, choose a site that specializes in that area. But if history is where you’re struggling, a site that specializes in math won’t be much help. So make sure to choose a site that you know provides high-quality help in the areas you need it most. 

Tip 3: Decide How Much One-On-One Help You Need 

This is really about cost-effectiveness. If you learn well on your own by reading and watching videos, a free site like Khan Academy is a good choice. But if you need actual tutoring, or to be able to ask questions and get personalized answers from experts, a paid site that provides that kind of service may be a better option.

Tip 4: Set a Budget

If you decide you want to go with a paid homework help website, set a budget first . The prices for sites vary wildly, and the cost to use them can add up quick. 

Tip 5: Read the Reviews

Finally, it’s always a good idea to read actual reviews written by the people using these homework sites. You’ll learn the good, the bad, and the ugly of what the users’ experiences have been. This is especially true if you intend to subscribe to a paid service. You’ll want to make sure that users think it’s worth the price overall!

What’s Next?

If you want to get good grades on your homework, it’s a good idea to learn how to tackle it strategically. Our expert tips will help you get the most out of each assignment…and boost your grades in the process.

Doing well on homework assignments is just one part of getting good grades. We’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting great grades in high school in this article.

Of course, test grades can make or break your GPA, too. Here are 17 expert tips that’ll help you get the most out of your study prep before you take an exam.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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Morning Work Made Easy: Practical Ideas & Activities for K-2 Teachers

Morning work that is engaging and targets important skills can help your students and make your teaching life easier. These resources require little prep and are a whole lot of fun!

• Easy Morning Work Ideas and Resources

Starting the day off right is crucial in the primary-level classroom, and morning work activities are a fantastic way to set a positive tone while reinforcing important skills. I went from activity to activity when I first started teaching. From coloring sheets, morning bins, and quiet reading to realizing that I could switch it up each day without feeling stressed each morning. I found activities that are simple to prep and engaging for students! 

Here is a round-up of those ideas to explore and a variety of fun and simple morning work ideas specifically designed for primary students in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. From alphabet recognition to counting, number sense, and fine motor skills practice, we will provide engaging activities and highlight their benefits to your student’s learning journey.

Table of Contents

Morning work routine, alphabet posters review activity, alphabet letter search, kindergarten math morning work centers, directed drawing art and writing activities, sight word practice, math fact review.

• Math Morning Work Centers 

Creative Writing Prompts

Grammar and language practice, math word problems & challenges, science experiments and mini-projects, free learning activity mats, morning work activities, activities and resources to help start your day.

Morning work is a valuable part of the daily routine in the classroom. It refers to brief, focused activities students engage in at the beginning of the school day. Morning work helps students transition into the learning mindset, reinforces previously learned concepts, and allows teachers to address individual student needs.

Morning work can include various activities, such as reviewing skills, practicing newer concepts, or engaging in creative tasks. It helps set a positive tone for the day, provides a routine, and allows teachers to observe and assess students’ progress. By starting the day with purposeful morning work, students are ready for a successful and productive day of learning.

Morning Work Ideas for Kindergarten

If you have ever taught kindergarten, you know the craziness of a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday… morning. Morning work is a great way to get students started on a positive note, allow for review and practice, or just have a little fun. Plus, it will calm things down a tad and get kids settled for the day! These morning work ideas for kindergarten are just a few to could consider.

Alphabet Recognition

Developing strong alphabet recognition skills is essential for early literacy success. Here are some letter recognition activities that can transform your morning work into a valuable letter review time. 

Utilize colorful alphabet posters to engage students in letter recognition. Display them around the classroom, encouraging students to identify and name the letters they see. A “Letter of the Day” is a fun way to practice the alphabet with a whole group and reinforce each letter during morning work the next morning. Read a book about things that start with that letter and create an anchor chart with pictures made by students that match words for that particular letter.

During morning work, have students search for letters in various contexts, such as books, newspapers, and magazines. Add fine motor skills, give students blank paper with a specific letter, and have them to cut out objects or words from newspapers, magazines, and old books and glue them to the paper that starts with the letter. This activity promotes letter recognition and familiarity. You can make it easier on yourself and use spot the letter mats ! 

Counting and Number Sense

Building a strong foundation in counting and number sense sets the stage for mathematical growth. You can easily incorporate some math activities into your morning work routine. 

Easily enhance number sense and counting skills with these hands-on math activities and worksheets. With hands-on learning, number recognition, counting, and basic addition and subtraction, incorporating this into morning work routines promotes a strong foundation in number sense while making learning enjoyable. Daily Math Mats are also a great way to review concepts you have already taught to keep them fresh in students’ minds.

Fine Motor Skills Morning Work Practice

Developing fine motor skills is essential for students, and students are developing these fine motor skills throughout the primary grades. Encourage their growth with activities that have easy-to-follow step-by-step directions. 

Children love to draw! Directed drawing activities not only promote fine motor skills but also foster creativity. Students follow step-by-step instructions to create simple drawings, allowing them to practice hand-eye coordination and pencil control. Fine motor skills practice enhances students’ hand strength, coordination, and dexterity, which is crucial for tasks like writing, cutting, and manipulating objects. These activities also support cognitive development and concentration.

Morning Work Ideas for First Grade

When students hit 1st grade, we want to make morning work meaningful and inviting. Students should practice already taught skills, and we want to reinforce good habits and ideas. From sight word practice to math fact review and creative writing prompts, you can bring in many different morning work activities that provide an engaging start to the day and promote important literacy and numeracy skills. 

Developing strong sight word recognition is crucial for reading fluency. In 1st grade, we want students to not only remember their kindergarten sight words but add additional sight words to their vocabulary.

Have students practice sight words with engaging activities and worksheets , like find and color sight word sheets, play-doh mats, and others that help students master essential sight words and build their reading skills.

Reinforcing math facts is essential for building a solid foundation in numeracy. Morning work is a great time to allow for math fact practice! Give students an opportunity to work through their math facts in a no-pressure situation and be ready for the math lesson of the day.

Use interactive activities and worksheets to review and practice addition facts up to 20 during morning work. This will help students improve their fluency and mental math abilities making your math block easier. Math Mats are also a great option for review!

Math Morning Work Centers

Explore math centers that focus on numbers up to 20. These number sense math centers provide hands-on activities and games to reinforce counting, number recognition, and basic addition and subtraction skills.

Give students extra practice during morning work with worksheets that review skills already taught, or if you have students who excel, give them an activity based on a new concept and see if they can rise to the challenge.

Morning work is a great time to get students excited about writing. Allow their creative juices to flow while using writing prompts for kids !

Morning work is a great time to help encourage creative expression and writing skills with creative writing mats . Obviously, offer a variety of writing activities and prompts throughout the year and inspire students to write and engage in imaginative storytelling or, at the very least, practice proper letter formation and editing.

Morning Work Ideas for Second Grade

Morning work in the second grade is a valuable opportunity for students to start their day on a productive note. Much like first grade, it allows them to review and practice essential skills while developing a positive learning environment.

From grammar and language practice to math word problems and challenges, as well as engaging science experiments and mini-projects, these morning work activities will get students thinking critically and reinforce key concepts across different subjects before you start your lessons!

Grammar and language may be hard to fit into your day. But strengthening grammar and language skills is essential for effective communication. Having students practice specific skills like long vowels, short vowels, capitalization, periods, etc., through morning work makes for great review.

Try resources, like word work practice mats , that provide quick, interactive activities that easily reinforce grammar rules, parts of speech, and language conventions. 

In second grade, students will begin to work on solving math problems independently. Finding quick math challenges, activities, and worksheets with word problems are great for morning work.

Look for resources that offer engaging math word problems and challenges that kids can work on unassisted. Encourage them to use their mental math abilities, the strategies they have been taught, and the math tools available to them in the classroom.

Mindful Math for 2nd Grade offers fun math activities that kids can work through independently during morning work. For a spiral-type review covering different math objectives, consider trying 2nd Grade Math Mats .

You can foster scientific inquiry and hands-on learning during morning work, as well. Consider including easy science experiments and mini-projects. They do not need to be anything that requires a lot of setup or cleanup and allow students to work through fun activities independently. Simply leave out a few materials for students to explore as they arrive in the morning.

Above all, morning work in kindergarten, first, and second grade offers opportunities to engage kids in activities that target important skills across various subjects. By incorporating these resources into your morning routine, you provide meaningful and enjoyable learning opportunities for students.

Resources to Make Your Morning Easier

Try engaging in morning work activities in your classroom with this FREE Morning Work Mats Sampler Pack ! You’ll receive 5 different activity mats to make your morning work easier!

Click the image below to grab a copy.

Proud to be Primary has many resources available that you can use for facilitating morning work.

• Spot the Letter Mats
• Directed Drawing Activities
• Creative Writing Mats
• Sight Word Worksheets
• Word Work Practice Mats
• Word Family Activities
• Simple Science Experiments
• Mindful Math Centers for Kindergarten , 1st Grade , and 2nd Grade
• Math Practice Mats for Kindergarten , 1st grade , and 2nd grade

SEL Morning Meeting

Monthly Math Mats Daily Math Practice

Drawing Activities

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Moscow Muled

Why do moscow mules come in copper mugs.

Oct 18, 2019

Have you ever wondered why the Moscow Mule cocktail is served in a copper mug? In this post, we answer that question in detail. As it turns out, the answer is partly based on historical events and partly based on the extra "kick" that copper brings to this classic cocktail. Let's dive in!

Introduction

A remarkable cocktail is something you notice from across the room, easily identified by the signature drinking vessel it's served in. Few are more distinct than the burnished copper mug of a Moscow Mule. 

Great cocktails aren't just alcohol and mixers––they should be something more, a full sensory experience from beginning to end. It starts as you observe the precise convergence of ingredients in a golden ratio that blossoms into flavors and aromas of citrus and spicy ginger. It is then delivered into an ice-filled copper mug and garnished with fresh mint and a slice of lime.  Finally, it is presented before you, shiny and cold, compelling you to taste.

The copper mule mug not only tells the story of the drink it contains, but also is essentially functional to the full experience. You might already know that the cone-shaped bowl of a long-stemmed Martini glass was designed so that olives would stand perfectly upright, and the elegantly curvaceous welled Margarita glass was designed to add ample salt, sugar and garnishes.

But why are Moscow Mules served in copper mugs?

Inquiring minds want to know, so this article will sum up the science and history of why traditional Moscow Mules come in copper mugs, and other legit benefits of serving cocktails in pure copper mugs. This includes:

A Brief History of the Moscow Mule

The science of using copper mugs.

• How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste & Aroma of your Moscow Mule
• The Enhanced Experience of Drinking from a Pure Copper Mug

The origin of this timeless cocktail is the tale of the American Dream. One fateful day in 1941 , three struggling entrepreneurs had a serendipitous meeting at the Cock 'N Bull bar on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood: A bar owner passionate about his unpopular home-brewed ginger beer, a businessman who took a big chance and purchased Smirnoff vodka, and a Russian immigrant with a cache of copper mugs she couldn't seem to sell. That day, the unlikely trio wisely decided to join forces in a bold venture that would not only save their individual businesses, but also create an iconic American cocktail.

Essentially, the Moscow Mule is the most successful marketing campaign in cocktail history. At a time when most Americans had never even heard of vodka, this cocktail introduced them to the traditional Russian alcohol, and established Smirnoff as a necessity in both bars and homes alike.

Thanks to celebrity endorsement, the Moscow Mule soon took the Hollywood cocktail scene by storm, and quickly became the most beloved mixed drink of the 1950's.

It's popularity understandably waned during the Cold War, and it was briefly re-branded as the Smirnoff Mule to distance itself from communism. However, the recent cocktail renaissance of the 21st century has seen the Moscow Mule come kicking back, as evidenced by lists like Esquire's Top 10 Cocktails of 2019 , and Business Insider's 8th Best-selling Cocktail in the World, 2018 .

But the answer to why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs goes much further than a conveniently clever alliance between co-founders desperate for a big break. The story of the Moscow Mule is both the struggle of the immigrant searching for success, and the flashy lifestyle of the rich and famous.

It boasts a simple recipe , yet a complex flavor profile, encapsulated in a shiny copper mug. And as delicious and refreshing as the Moscow Mule may be, it's the copper mug that makes the cocktail so extraordinary.  Like the drink itself, the pure copper mule mug is a balance of form and functionality.

The most scientific benefit of the copper mug is its ability to regulate temperature. When a drink is served in a copper mug, it gets cold fast––and stays that way.

Copper is a renowned thermal conductor that will keep your beverage frosty in any weather, and is one of the reasons the traditional Moscow Mule has become synonymous with summer. Add a little ice, and the copper chills drinks instantly, and sustains a refreshingly icy rim with every sip.

Because copper is such an excellent conductor, it can keep your cold beverages colder for longer. The downfall of many ill-fated cocktails on a hot summer day is melting ice. Copper mugs stay brisk, and don't disrupt the recipe's ratio, so the simple yet distinct flavors of the Moscow Mule remain strong till the last drop.

Another important feature of the solid copper Moscow Mule mug is the handle. Much like the stem of a wine glass, the copper mug handle keeps the nearly 100 degree body temperature of your hand from impacting the status of your deliciously frosty cocktail.

How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste and Aroma of Your Moscow Mule

If you want to know what a Moscow Mule tastes like, purists would insist the only way to experience it is in a 100% copper mug. Aside from being a great American tradition, copper mugs offer some unique enhancements to both the flavor and aroma of the Moscow Mule (or almost any finely-crafted cocktail).

Although subjective, most discerning drinkers would agree that copper mugs imbue cocktails with a superior taste. Experts explain that the copper oxidizes the vodka upon contact, thus enhancing the flavor profile and potency of the aromatics.

The intense cold of the copper also creates more stability in the bubbles of the ginger beer carbonation, and balances the tangy citrus of the lime with the earthy spice of the ginger.

For the skeptics out there, the theory of superior taste is easily verifiable. Simply make or order two Moscow Mules––one served in a plastic cup, and one served in a copper mug. Take a moment to inhale deeply, enjoy a big sip, and let your senses be the judge.

The epiphany should take a matter of moments, and you soon realize why a Moscow Mule is best served in a copper mug, and why any other cup or glass is vastly inferior. The difference can be so vivid, you might even consider drinking all your favorite beverages from copper mugs, even hot tea and coffee!

The Enhanced Experience of Drinking From a Pure Copper Mug

Throwing back shots with reckless disregard is a great way to get hammered, but a terrible way to enjoy something delicious. People order cocktails for the full package––observing its creation, revelling in its presentation, and slowly savoring its captivating story and unique taste.

Not only is a cocktail a well-balanced combination of spirits and mixers, it's also about the aesthetic and function of the vessel it's served in. A cocktail should be an object of inspired beauty, presented thoughtfully in a suitable glass or mug and garnished appropriately. It should take time, because it's made by hand.

Although the copper mug has become the symbol of Moscow Mules, it can also pair exquisitely with many other cocktails. Many people seem drawn to the shine and nostalgia of the metal, and Mixologists seem impressed by the scientific properties of the copper mug. Other drinks prominently featured in copper mugs include Dark 'n Stormy, Mescal, Gin & Tonic, and Cuba Libre.

No matter how frosted a beer glass gets, nothing can keep a mixed drink colder than a copper mug. The sensation when one's lips touch the ice-cold rim with every sip is part of the unique experience.

The flavors are heightened, the aromas amplified, and the balance of vodka, lime juice and ginger beer is never watered-down by melting ice. Provided your Moscow Mule is served in a pure copper mug, the last sip should be just as robust and enjoyable as the first.

The benefits of drinking from copper mugs aren't a newfound discovery. In fact, copper has been the preferred metal for drinking vessels for thousands of years.

Gurus in India have been using copper mugs for hundreds of years, and copper goblets called Escra have been found in ancient Irish ruins. Even American settles in 1645 drank exclusively from a massive tankard made of pure copper, known today as the Virginia Tankard .

The Moscow Mule is a classic drink served in a magnificent copper mug because it tells a compelling story, and enhances your consumption experience. It is an unforgettable drink because it's served in a mug that is both more beautiful than and functionally superior to glass.

Three Reasons Moscow Mules Come in Copper Mugs

The reason your Moscow Mule is served in a copper mug is not a fluke. It is not because it's the latest trendy hipster craze. It's not just a marketing ploy (although it definitely started out as one), nor is it a conspiracy by the lobbyists for Big Copper.

Moscow Mules come in copper mugs for three reasons: taste, temperature, and presentation.

The unique experience of drinking a Moscow Mule is a balanced combination of these three elements. It's also the reason this drink is not only the most recognizable, but also consistently one of the most popular drinks in global cocktail culture history.

Taste: The natural properties of the copper oxidize the alcohol, resulting in powerful aromatics and superior flavors. The bubbles of the ginger beer stay fizzy, and perfectly counter the acidity of the fresh lime juice. It's spicy yet refreshing. Simply put, it's delicious!

Temperature: Copper is an ideal thermal conductor, instantly chilling your beverage upon creation, and maintaining a consistently arctic temperature. This prevents the ice from quickly melting and dulling the cocktail ratio, while keeping the rim refreshingly frosty with every sip. The handle also keeps your hot little fingers from fluctuating the temperature with every touch.

Presentation: A glinting copper mug looks authentic and catches the eye. It is vintage, yet modern, and tells a story of creativity, charm and resilience. It is instantly recognizable, and makes for a fine looking beverage. Yes please!

The Bottom Line

The copper mug is iconic, a great American tradition of nearly 80 years, and is the only proper way to drink a Moscow Mule. Cheers!

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  How to Clean and Care for Copper Mugs: The Definitive Guide and  Why You Should Only Use Moscow Mule Copper Mugs With Stainless Steel Lining

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