Student Says Homework Should be Optional

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Homework should be optional instead of required. There are at least three reasons for this: Kids need to be kids; we don’t have enough time; and teachers should teach us.

Kids need to be kids. Many don’t have enough time for extracurricular activities, such as sports or academic clubs. The U.S. Census Bureau says just 57 percent of students between the ages of 6 and 17 participate. Extracurricular activities provide development of social skills, exercise and hobbies.

Homework is extremely time-consuming. The average student spends 3 1/2 hours on homework daily, according to a study by the Los Angeles Times. This is especially difficult in middle and high school, where students have six different classes that assign homework.

Last, teachers seem now to rely on standardized worksheets instead of their own teaching styles. Students need and deserve more than just printed-paper sent home. Homework should be for kids who need help in school or want extra practice. Some kids don’t have help with their homework at home. This situation makes good grades difficult to achieve.

Students can have trimester check-ins and projects instead of homework. This is an important movement that should be considered in the Peninsula School District.

Alivia Mead

Harbor Ridge Middle School seventh-grader


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