Your Voice: Quality education and unrealistic beauty standards (short letters)

While homework can be a valuable tool for reinforcing learning, an overload of assignments can have negative consequences.

Students frequently find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of homework, leading to stress, anxiety and a decreased passion for learning. This excessive workload hinders their mental well-being and can hurt their academic performance.

The original purpose of homework is to help students consolidate their knowledge and prepare for future lessons. However, too much homework can subvert this purpose. Students may need more time to review material, complete assignments thoughtfully, or engage in other essential activities like rest and relaxation. This can lead to a superficial understanding of the subject matter and a decline in academic achievement.

Many students already have busy schedules. Excessive homework forces them to sacrifice sleep, leading to physical and mental health issues.

Educators should re-evaluate their homework policies to promote a healthier and more effective learning environment. Teachers can create meaningful assignments that reinforce learning without overwhelming students.

Kelly Xu, Pope Paul VI College

The pervasive pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, perpetuated by media and societal norms, has led to a significant rise in appearance-related stress and mental health concerns.

Appearance anxiety, often fuelled by social media’s portrayal of idealised beauty, can have detrimental effects on individuals’ self-esteem, mental well-being and overall quality of life. It can lead to body dysmorphia, eating disorders, depression and other serious psychological issues.

It is crucial that we, as a community, foster a culture of acceptance and support for individuals struggling with appearance anxiety. Encouraging self-love, promoting diverse representations of beauty and prioritising mental health education are essential to combating this pervasive issue.

Schools, healthcare providers and policymakers must implement programmes and policies that address appearance anxiety and provide resources for those needing support. We can create a more inclusive and compassionate society by destigmatising conversations around body image and promoting body positivity.

Let us strive to create a more empathetic and understanding environment.

Should students have homework during the summer holiday?

Tam Cheuk-yiu, Leung Shek Chee College

A world speaking a single language risks the loss of cultural diversity. Each language uniquely expresses a people’s history, identity, and values. Destroying this linguistic and cultural richness would be a tragic loss.

Furthermore, such a shift would have severe economic consequences. Translators, language teachers and other professionals who rely on linguistic diversity would face unemployment. This would not only harm individuals but also weaken economies worldwide.

Beyond the economic impact, learning multiple languages offers cognitive benefits. It enhances memory and problem-solving skills. It also fosters empathy and understanding of different cultures.

While a single language might seem convenient for travel, it could ultimately diminish the appeal of exploring diverse cultures. People travel to experience different places’ unique customs, traditions and languages. A world without linguistic diversity would be a less vibrant and exciting place.

In conclusion, a world that embraces linguistic diversity is a world that is richer, more resilient, and more intellectually stimulating. Let us celebrate the beauty of language and the cultures it represents.

Ng Wai-ling, St Catharine’s School for Girls

When a typhoon approaches, the safety of the students and staff is the top priority. To ensure that education continues uninterrupted, transitioning to online learning is a practical and essential solution.

Online learning reduces the need for travel during hazardous weather conditions, allowing students to stay home safely. Parents can rest assured knowing their children are protected, while teachers can focus on delivering lessons without worrying about adverse conditions affecting their students’ well-being.

Online platforms allow for a seamless continuation of lessons, preventing academic disruptions. Students can stay on track with assignments and projects, ensuring they meet deadlines.

Online resources cater to different learning preferences, making learning more engaging and effective. Virtual classrooms and interactive activities keep students motivated, even from the comfort of their homes.

While some may believe that a typhoon provides an opportunity for rest, it’s important to remember that delays in education can impact long-term learning. By embracing online learning during typhoon days, we can prioritise safety and maintain educational continuity.