The combined efforts of school and home as well as reading, phonics, math, writing, science, and homework are important areas in which schools can make education work. A discussion of the U.S. Department of Education's "What Works: Research About Teaching and Learning", which emphasizes the urgency of improving phonics, homework, and memorization, the basics of education. Hard work and self-discipline are keys to student success. Teachers must be knowledgeable about the curriculum, involve students in their own learning, use effective teaching techniques, communicate high expectations to their pupils, and work with parents. A rigorous and firmly structured curricula is critical.