Give Us a Longer Break! — by Dana Golan, 8th grade
At our school, the long break is only twenty minutes. By the time we buy a sandwich and find a place to sit, the bell rings again. I believe the long break should be at least thirty minutes, and here is why.
First, our bodies need to move. We sit for most of the day, and many of us sit again at home in front of screens. A longer break gives us time to play ball, run or just walk around the yard.
Second, a break is good for learning. After a real rest, it is easier to concentrate in the next lesson. Teachers in our school often complain that students are restless after the break. I think it is because the break is too short to release our energy.
Some people say that a longer break means a longer school day. That is true, but only by ten minutes. In my opinion, ten minutes is a small price to pay for students who are calmer and more focused.
I suggest that the school try a thirty-minute break for one month, and then ask students and teachers what they think. If it doesn't work, we can always go back.