EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES September to December 2018 Why participate in extra-curricular activities? “A number of studies revealed that students participating in extra-curricular activities did better academically than students who did not participate” (Marsh & Kleitman, 2002) One study found that “adolescents who participated in extra-curricular activities reported higher grades, more positive attitudes towards school, and higher academic aspirations” (Darling, Caldwell & Smith, 2005) “…instrumental music training uniquely enhances the higher brain functions required for mathematics, science and engineering” (Ponter, 1999)