There is scientific research to back up the idea that school should start later for middle and high school students. Beginning i
n their adolescent years, students' sleep patterns change because they become more focused in the evening and stay up later. This requires that they sleep later in the morning since, according to research, teenagers need 8–10 hours of sleep. Not getting enough sleep can lead to health risks, but it also has consequences for teenagers and their academics. Students who do not get enough sleep have a harder time staying alert and remaining focused in class, which can lead to poorer grades. Furthermore, lack of sleep can lead to increased stress levels and prevent students from retaining information, leading to problem-solving troubles. Teenagers who do not get enough sleep suffer from poor academic performance. Physical problems, such as lack of physical alertness, can also be the result of teenagers not getting adequate sleep. Research also shows that students who do not get enough sleep can be overweight. While many middle and high schools begin before 8:30, they should modify their schedules. Experts suggest that these schools begin no earlier than 8:30 in the morning. This allows for students to sleep later in the morning, which matches the scientifically proven sleep cycles of teenagers. Question: Which sentence would be the best conclusion to the essay? a The needs of students should not be the driving force behind schools modifying schedules. b Allowing students to sleep in will benefit schools and later start times should be put in place. c For students to be successful, schools should understand the importance of students' physical needs. d Middle and high school students can’t stay focused if they don’t have enough sleep.
