School Issues

Girls’ playground, Harriet Island, St. Paul, Minn.

Abstract:

This image shows girls playing at recess in 1905. While looking at this picture think about what has changed since it was taken.

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Learn More About Primary Sources
Source:

Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources

Author:

Detroit Publishing Co.

Playground Baseball League Takes Boys off Streets and Puts them into Health

Abstract:

This excerpt from The Day Book reports on a new playground baseball league for boys. What impact does having an athletic outlet for children have on the cities? How does this compare to current views on similar outlets and structured activities?

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Learn More About Primary Sources
Source:

Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources

Author:

Hugh S. Fullerton

State Politicians and Parents Debate School Recess Bills

Abstract:

Parents from across the United States are advocating for their children to have recess time during the school day. Politicians are divided about whether they should pass laws requiring recess or whether individual schools should make this decision.

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Source:

NewsELA

Published:

5/19/2016

Time to Play: More State Laws Require Recess

Abstract:

Politicians across the U.S. are introducing new legislation to increase recess time in schools. Research studies show that students are more physically fit, able to better concentrate in class, and have better creativity when they have time to play.

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Source:

Edutopia

Author:

Brittany Shammas

Published:

3/7/2019

Is Recess Important for Kids or a Waste of Time? Here’s What the Research Says

Abstract:

The No Child Left Behind policy in 2002 led to increased math and reading time and more testing. This reduced recess time in schools, which has harmed students’ ability to learn and lessened their physical activity.

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Source:

Time

Author:

Katie Reilly

Published:

10/23/2017

Recess Makes Kids Smarter

Abstract:

Under pressure to boost academic test scores, schools have reduced the amount of recess time that students have every day. Some schools and teachers are fighting to change these policies and increase recess time.

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Source:

Scholastic

Author:

Caralee Adams

Back-to-School: Recess 101

Abstract:

When feeling fidgety from sitting still for a long time, it can be helpful to take a break. Recess actually makes kids smarter, even though it takes time away from academic classes.

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Source:

NPR Wow in the World

Author:

Guy Raz & Mindy Thomas

Published:

8/24/2017