In July, China introduced the "double reduction" policy (双减政策). It hopes to reduce students' learning burden (负担) by reducing homework and after-school classes. Three months have p since the new term began. How do students feel about this new policy?
"Our homework is clearly l than before," said 13-year-old Shen Yu from Beijing. "We are not encouraged to buy workbooks anymore. The exercises are m from the textbook."
According to Shen, teachers now teach at a much slower pace (节奏). Students have enough time to process new knowledge. "Our teachers are also giving us more c to do experiments (实验) and learn from real life," said Shen. "For example, we went to research earthworms (蚯蚓) in a field during a biology class. This is a much b way to learn things than just hitting the books."
For 13-year-old Zhang Ming from Tianjin, the best thing about "double reduction" is the increased time in after-school activities. "We can now spend more time t part in clubs and activities, such as dancing, volleyball and drama." said Zhang.
Both Shen and Zhang find there are fewer exams now. But they think it's probably not a good thing. "Each exam shows my progress as well as my weak points. Exams push me to study h," Zhang said.
She also pointed out that when burden is lightened (减轻), self-discipline (自律) is of great i. "Some students now spend more time having fun when homework is f early. But if you use all the free time to r, you might fall behind your peers (同龄人)," he said.