Read an academic passage

The Importance of Sleep for Cognitive Function

Sleep is a vital biological process essential for physical health, mental well-being, and cognitive performance. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, clears metabolic waste, and restores energy levels. Lack of adequate sleep can impair attention, problem-solving abilities, and decision-making. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to increased risks of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mood disorders.

Adults typically require 7–9 hours of sleep per night, while children and adolescents need more due to rapid growth and brain development. Sleep quality is influenced by factors such as stress, diet, exercise, and exposure to electronic devices before bedtime. Healthy sleep habits, including maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting screen time, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, can significantly improve cognitive function and overall health.

Research indicates that sleep is not merely a passive state but an active process critical for learning, creativity, and emotional regulation. Prioritizing sufficient, high-quality sleep is therefore essential for academic performance, workplace productivity, and long-term well-being.

 

 

1. Why is sleep important for the brain?

A. It increases body temperature
B. It consolidates memories and clears metabolic waste
C. It decreases oxygen supply to the brain
D. It reduces the need for water

 

2. How many hours of sleep do adults typically need?

A. 4–5 hours
B. 5–6 hours
C. 7–9 hours
D. 10–12 hours

 

3. Which of the following is NOT linked to chronic sleep deprivation?

A. Obesity
B. Diabetes
C. Improved attention
D. Cardiovascular disease

 

4. Which factor can negatively affect sleep quality?

A. Maintaining a consistent schedule
B. Limiting screen time
C. Exposure to stress and electronics before bed
D. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine

 

5. How does adequate sleep affect cognitive function?

A. It impairs learning and creativity
B. It improves memory, learning, and emotional regulation
C. It reduces physical health
D. It increases stress levels

 

 

<정답>

1. Answer: B

설명: 잠은 뇌가 기억을 강화하고, 찌꺼기를 제거하며, 에너지를 회복시켜주어서 인지 기능에 필수적임.

2. Answer: C

설명: 성인은 일반적으로 건강과 인지 기능을 유지하기 위해 매일 7-9시간이 필요함.

3. Answer: C

설명: 수면부족은 집중력을 향상시키기 보다는 손상시킴. 다른 보기들은 장기적인 잠부족과 관련이 있음.

4. Answer: C

설명: 스트레스와 잠자기 전에 전자 장치를 사용하는 것은 수면 패턴을 방해하여 수면 질을 낮춤.

5. Answer: B

설명: 충분한 수면은 기억, 배움, 창의성, 감정조절을 향상시키며 전반적인 인지 수행을 도와 줌.