Tuesday, March 1, 2011

The Effects Of Extracurricular Activities On High School

Those students who are involved in music do better academically.


Participation in extracurricular school activities reduces absenteeism, increases the likelihood that a student will attend college, results in higher educational aspirations and improves grade point averages. Some activities improve student achievement more than others. Extracurricular activities haven't always been offered to high school students. When the concept of extracurricular activities was introduced many thought these activities were unnecessary and perhaps even a distraction and detriment to academics. It turns out that these activities are beneficial to students in many ways.


Motivation


Extracurricular activities can provide academic motivation, as a certain grade point average must be maintained for eligibility. Those who are involved in extracurricular activities are three times more likely to have a grade point average of 3.0 or better. The way students opt to spend their free time, away from the classroom, does have a bearing on their classroom performance.


Sports


Some research shows that playing sports not only improves academic performance, but the mind as well. Engaging in regular physical activity is believed to have an impact on cognitive development because blood to the brain is increased, which promotes the growth of interneuronal connections. Participation in sports teaches a student about teamwork, sportsmanship, camaraderie, work ethics, discipline, winning and losing. All of these lessons can be applied in the classroom and in a career.


Music


Academically, music and art students perform better on the verbal and math section of the SAT. Studies have shown that music improves writing, reading and math skills, as well as critical thinking skills. In addition, music improves spatial intelligence and perceptual abilities. Non-sports extracurricular activities result in the most benefits academically, although sports-related activities are important as well.


Volunteering


Many schools encourage students to become involved in service organizations. Those who volunteer benefit from intellectual, social and psychological development. When the service work is somehow tied into a school subject, students' work in that specific area improves. Students who volunteer are motivated to think and learn because they are exposed to new experiences and situations. These students have better school attendance, behavior and better grades, according to an article on Kon.org.

Tags: extracurricular activities, grade point, grade point average, music improves, point average, these activities