Detention facts for kids

A detention is a word with a few different meanings. It can mean being held back, like at school, or it can refer to a special place that holds water. Let's explore some of these different uses of the word "detention."

What is Detention?

The word "detention" generally means holding someone or something back for a period of time. It can be a form of punishment, like when a student is kept after school. It can also describe a place designed to hold something, like a large pool that collects rainwater. Understanding the context helps us know what kind of detention is being talked about.

Detention at School

One of the most common ways kids hear the word "detention" is in school. School detention is a type of punishment given to students who break school rules. It means a student has to stay at school for extra time, usually after classes end. This time is often spent quietly, sometimes doing schoolwork or thinking about their actions.

Why Do Schools Use Detention?

Schools use detention to help students learn about following rules and taking responsibility. If a student misbehaves, talks in class, or doesn't complete homework, a teacher might give them detention. It's a way to encourage good behavior and make sure everyone can learn in a safe and orderly environment. The goal is to help students understand the importance of rules.

What Happens During School Detention?

During school detention, students are usually supervised by a teacher or staff member. They might sit in a classroom or a special detention room. Often, students are expected to be quiet and work on assignments, read, or reflect on why they received the punishment. The length of detention can vary, from a short period after school to a longer session.

Detention Basins: Helping with Water

Another type of detention is a detention basin. This is a very different kind of detention! A detention basin is a special area built to hold water, especially during heavy rain or floods. Think of it like a big, empty pool or pond. It's designed to collect extra water and release it slowly over time.

How Do Detention Basins Work?

When there's a lot of rain, water can quickly flood streets and homes. A detention basin collects this extra stormwater runoff. Instead of letting all the water rush away at once, the basin holds it temporarily. It has an outlet that lets the water flow out slowly, preventing sudden floods downstream. This helps protect buildings and land from water damage.

Why Are Detention Basins Important?

Detention basins are important for managing water and protecting communities. They help control flooding, which can cause a lot of damage and be dangerous. By slowing down the flow of water, they also help prevent erosion and keep pollutants from washing into rivers and lakes too quickly. They are a key part of modern urban planning and environmental protection.

Other Kinds of Detention

The word "detention" can also refer to other things, like:

• A movie called Detention that came out in 2003.
• A band from New Jersey named Detention.
• A TV series also called Detention.
• An episode of the TV show Cold Case was titled "Detention".

These uses show how one word can have many different meanings depending on the topic!