HOME LESSONS.

Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 187, 8 August 1919, Page 9

HOME LESSONS.

(To the Editor.) Sir, —I would like to make use of these columns to voice a grievance against the system in vogue in the City schools of giving children lessons to learn at home. Is it right, or necessary, that children should be compelled to do home work? We hear at -the present time a great 'deal of talk ■ about working shorter hours; what about the kiddies? Under the present system they are "crammed," so 03 to maintain a high standard. I believe in giving children as good an education as" possible, but let it be given in the school, and by the teachers, and not by home work, that has to be supervised by the child's parents. I have just been at lenst an hour , and a half overlooking sums and writing done by a r Standafd IV. pupil, and listening to a Primer- 111. child struggling with'-word*- such "as 'America, enough, touched; thought;' ~ scarce, remember, etc. Imagine a child just turned seven being taught words such as these; his brain cannot grasp and retain either spelling or meaning of words like these. Surely children can be taught sufficient during school hours, at least until they reach the V. or VI. Standard, without forcing them to do home work. I would like very much to ccc this home Work syetem abolished, and suggest this matter to the respective school committees for their earnest consideration. —I am, etc., PARENT.