Linking Opinions and Reasons: Longer Recess

Recess Should Be Longer

1Our school should make recess thirty minutes long instead of twenty. Most of the day, students sit at desks, so they need time to move, play, and relax. Recess is also the one time in the school day when we choose what to do. On rainy days, when we must stay inside, everyone is louder, wigglier, and slower to finish work. A longer recess would help us learn, stay healthy, and get along with classmates. I believe this change is worth making.

2First, a longer recess helps students focus in class because their minds get a real break. After sitting still for an hour, many of us feel restless and tired. Consequently, we fidget, lose our place, and stop listening to the teacher. A long break outside gives us time to burn off extra energy. Students who run and play come back to class ready to learn.

3Second, recess helps students make friends and work as a team. Specifically, games like kickball and tag teach players to take turns, follow the rules, and cheer for each other. Twenty minutes is hardly enough time to pick teams, so some games never get finished. With thirty minutes, every student would have a chance to join in. Friends made at recess often sit together at lunch and help each other in class. Recess also gives quieter students a chance to meet new people on the swings or the climbing wall.

4Some people worry that a longer recess would take time away from lessons. However, teachers could shorten the walk between classes, since hallway lines often waste several minutes. In addition, students who have had enough time to play usually work harder when lessons begin. For these reasons, I hope our principal will add ten minutes to recess. As a result, our school would be healthier, happier, and ready to learn. A longer recess is a small change that could make a big difference every day.