Homework set prior to a lesson can aid understanding later in class. Homework also provides opportunities for reinforcement of work learned during school time and for children to develop their research skills. Having the responsibility of needing to meet deadlines promotes self-discipline.
Unto this world of discord, came a revonlutionary idea: children started to work, and grew up really intelligent and got brilliant jobs.
And children told their children, and they made them do their homework too (even if it wasnt much fun) and their children grew up and life was never the same again!
Usefull Links:
BBC online, offering homework help for real teachers.
Briliant site, especially for revision.
American page, but provides much help.
Free homework help line manned by teachers.