It sounds like your son is really having trouble finding the motivation to do the work.  Has this always been a problem?  There could be a number of reasons for this behavior.  

One possibility could be depression.  If he is experiencing emotional pain, it may be interfering with his everyday life.  Have you noticed this apathy or inactivity in other parts of his life?  If you doo see that he is generally down and out, than it may be worth asking him about it and seeing if there is more to it.  

It also may be that he simply doesn't understand why this is important.  Have a frank discussion about him and see if he just simply dislikes the work and doesn't understand why it is important for him to do.  And maybe in the grand scope, the things he is working on with homework aren't important, but his grades are.  And the faster he gets the homework done, the faster he can move onto other things, but the homework needs to be done first.  in life and in school, it is necessary to jump through hoops to succeed.  Get it over and out of the way.  

Maybe the environment circumstances aren't working for him. Some kids do their best work immediately after school.  Some work better before dinner.  Some work best after dinner.  Some kids are tired after dinner and can't focus.  Some locations are better than others.  Try the kitchen, dining room, bedroom, or any other place that may be more conducive to his productivity and effort.  

In the end, asking questions and having an open, nonjudgemental communication with him will give you the most information.  Ask him what he thinks may help and see if you can come up with a plan together that you think will work for you and him.  

Good luck and feel free to call our hotline if you ever need additional help!

Counselor, Dominic
Boys Town National Hotline-A hotline for parents and teens
1-800-448-3000
www.parenting.org