Write to Win: What would you change about your school’s schedule? (Round 3)
Our writing contest starts with 10 students, who are eliminated one at a time based on your votes and YP editors’ picks.
What would you change about your school’s schedule? Would you make classes start later, or give yourself an extra day off? Photo: Shutterstock Read the responses to this week’s Write to Win prompt, and choose the answer you like most on this form.
January: The schedule at my school would be much more balanced and less stressful if I were in charge of it. I would start by adding “Power-Up Breaks” – 10 minutes between classes to relax, have a snack or talk to friends. To allow us to go deeper without hurrying, I would implement “Focus Blocks” – longer sessions for core subjects like English and maths. The best part is that “Chill Fridays” offer afternoon sessions for group projects, revision or even mindfulness classes to help you prepare for exams without becoming overwhelmed. Let’s make learning more intelligent, not more complicated.
February: I would change Wednesday’s timetable to a lighter schedule that allows students to finish their lessons by 1pm. This adjustment would provide time for them to develop their skills and pursue hobbies, while also giving them a chance to recharge during the intense school week. Having free time in the afternoon would also enable teachers and students to spend time with their families and friends, thereby enhancing their interpersonal relationships. This new schedule would ensure that students continue to learn while also supporting their mental well-being.
March: If I was in charge of my school schedule, it would definitely be a blast. As a passionate fan of innovation, I would make some exciting changes. To start, I would transform dull classrooms into imaginative adventures by creating fun games for students to enjoy. Imagine a “Colourful Monday” where we blend science and art by painting with chemical reactions. It would be such an exhilarating experience. Additionally, I would adjust the schedule so that students can come to school at 10am. With the heavy load of homework and exams, the thought of an early start feels exhausting. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could enjoy learning on our own terms?
May: Thursdays can feel like the worst day of the week. It’s the day that often sneaks up on you, starting with a glimmer of hope that the weekend is near, only to lead to the disappointing realisation that it is not, in fact, Friday. I would propose changing the schedule by replacing lessons on Thursdays with life skills workshops. Many students in my class seem unsure about how to operate basic appliances, like a washing machine. While that might just apply to my class, I believe it’s important for everyone to be equipped with life skills before graduating into society.
June: Don’t you sometimes wish you were in preschool when you could catch some Z’s during nap time? Nowadays, students are constantly exhausted, from countless extracurriculars to bombardments of homework and studying for upcoming exams. If the school schedule were in my control, I would dedicate a short period between recess and lunch for students to rest and regain energy. This would prevent students from dozing off during lessons, improving concentration as they would feel energised from their mid-school nap. Now, the next time I feel tired at school, I know the nap period has got my back.
August: If I was in charge of my school’s timetable, I would make the lessons longer. This would provide students with more time to explore subjects in-depth. I would also introduce regular breaks to allow students to unwind and refresh themselves, along with opportunities for sports activities to promote healthy habits. Finally, I would ensure that after-school clubs are extended to help students develop important skills.
October: First, I would introduce a five-minute mid-lesson break between each hour of instruction. During this break, students would be encouraged to do simple stretches and look out at greenery. Secondly, I would implement a daily self-study period for students to complete their homework and seek assistance from teachers if needed. This approach reinforces knowledge retention through active recall and helps students develop their time management skills. Additionally, it supports those who are involved in multiple extracurricular activities by ensuring they have sufficient time for their academic responsibilities.