B2 – Upper Intermediate
We often find ourselves sacrificing sleep in order to complete assignments, study for exams, work, or participate in social activities. The prevailing belief is that the less hours of sleep we get, the more energetic we will feel. However, recent research has shown that this may not necessarily be the case.
Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining our energy levels and overall well-being. It is during sleep that our bodies repair and regenerate, allowing us to wake up feeling refreshed and revitalized. Inadequate sleep can lead to feelings of fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and a weakened immune system.
Read the article and learn why sometimes we feel more tired after getting a really good night’s sleep.
https://edition.cnn.com/2022/08/10/health/waking-up-tired-reasons-solutions-wellness/index.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is “sleep inertia”? “This discrepancy is often due to a heightened state of sleep inertia, a circadian process that modulates memory, mood, reaction time and alertness upon waking.” Use this term in a sentence.
- What does the idiom “to toss and turn” mean? “Maybe your bed partner has a sleep disorder and snores or tosses and turns.” Use this idiom in your own sentence.
- What does “shift-based” mean? “Sometimes our schedules differ on weekdays versus weekends. Schedules can also fluctuate for people with shift-based jobs.” Use this adjective in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What have you learned from the article?
- Are you the type of person who can function with very little sleep? Why or why not?
- Do you think you regularly get enough sleep? If not, how can you maintain good performance throughout the day?
- Dr. Kashani said that “The most important sleep habit is to sleep. To sleep as much to sleep as much as your body needs and when your body needs it.” Do you agree? Elaborate on your answer.
- Would you consider seeing a sleep specialist or going to a sleep clinic should the need arise? Explain.
- What’s your sleep environment and routine like?
- Have you ever had any sleep problems? What did you do to fix it?