Topic: Students would benefit from a shorter school day.
Make 2 paragrapha of 5 sentences with a supporting detail, evidence (Author is Kayla Weise), and explanation supporting the topic using the passage below.
Although many people think longer school days would increase academic success, students would benefit more from spending less time in school. Many argue that a longer school day would be beneficial because school hours could match parents’ work schedules. It would provide for additional instructional time so students could also learn nonacademic skills during the school day as well as participate in more arts and physical education classes. They may also argue that a longer school day gets students used to an eight-hour work schedule.
Despite these claims, research shows no direct correlation between student success and longer school days. In a worldwide comprehension assessment in 2016, Norway was one country that scored higher than the US. However, their school hours are from 8:15 a.m to 1:10 p.m. This shows that more time in school does not improve student success. Although longer school days give students more time to learn, there are more important aspects of life outside a classroom that children need to experience to be successful. Shortening the school day would allow for more time to focus on other important activities such as playing a sport, doing homework, extracurricular activities, family responsibilities, and work for some high school students. Students may also feel the pressure of strict time management which may prevent them from investing themselves in these activities. Stephanie Weise, a kindergarten teacher, said “by the end of the day, it is hard to keep the kindergarteners’ attention. They would be more engaged if the day was shorter.”
By starting school one hour later, students would get more sleep which would improve their academics. They would also lose no time for extracurricular activities and homework. After-school activities or child-care programs could be established to provide care for students who may not be able to go home directly after school. The benefits of shorter school days are abundant. Students should not be spending most of their time in a classroom but instead out doing activities, working, and learning valuable life skills that cannot be taught in school.
Research supports the idea that shorter school days can actually benefit students academically. According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics, starting school later in the day can lead to improved academic performance, better attendance, and reduced behavior problems. This evidence shows that more time for rest and sleep can positively impact students’ learning abilities. By shortening the school day, students would have more time to focus on their well-being and overall health, which ultimately contributes to their academic success.
Furthermore, a shorter school day allows students to have a more balanced lifestyle. Author Kayla Weise argues that students need time for extracurricular activities, homework, family responsibilities, and personal interests. By reducing the amount of time spent in school, students would have the opportunity to engage in these important aspects of their lives. Stephanie Weise, a kindergarten teacher, emphasizes the importance of keeping students engaged throughout the day. Shortening the school day would prevent burnout and allow students to stay focused and motivated. In conclusion, providing students with a shorter school day not only benefits their academic performance but also promotes a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.