Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you do to make sure you get enough sleep?
- If you could change the time of sunrise or sunset, what would you choose and why?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- vary /VAIR-ee/
- adjust /uh-JUHST/
- reset /ree-SET/
- lawmaker /LAW-mey-ker/
- debate /dih-BEYT/
[verb] – to change in different situations or for different people
Prices for fresh vegetables vary depending on the season and location.
[verb] – to change something slightly to fit a new situation or condition
He had to adjust his diet after being diagnosed with diabetes.
[verb] – to return something to its original state or to set it again
The technician reset the computer to fix the error.
[noun] – a person who creates or changes laws
The lawmakers passed a law to increase environmental protection.
[verb] – to discuss different opinions about a topic, often in a formal way
Scientists debate whether artificial intelligence can replace human jobs in the future.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Daylight saving time (DST) begins each year in March, requiring most regions in the United States to set their clocks forward by one hour. This change creates darker mornings but longer daylight in the evening. Originally introduced to save energy and make better use of daylight, DST affects people’s internal body clocks, which control sleep patterns. Studies show that sleep problems caused by DST can last for weeks. Research also links this shift to a short-term rise in heart attacks, strokes, and traffic accidents, highlighting its possible health risks. While most of the U.S. follows DST, states like Hawaii and most of Arizona stay on standard time all year. Other countries also use DST, though their start and end dates vary.
To adjust smoothly to daylight saving time, sleep experts suggest gradually changing sleep schedules. Going to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night before the shift can help. Getting morning sunlight also helps reset the body’s internal clock, improving sleep and overall health. Lack of sleep has been linked to heart disease, obesity, and memory problems, making good rest essential. Lawmakers continue to debate whether to keep switching times or choose a permanent schedule. Health experts argue that standard time is better for natural sleep patterns. Until a final decision is made, individuals must take steps to reduce the impact of these changes.
To adjust smoothly to daylight saving time, sleep experts suggest gradually changing sleep schedules. Going to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night before the shift can help. Getting morning sunlight also helps reset the body’s internal clock, improving sleep and overall health. Lack of sleep has been linked to heart disease, obesity, and memory problems, making good rest essential. Lawmakers continue to debate whether to keep switching times or choose a permanent schedule. Health experts argue that standard time is better for natural sleep patterns. Until a final decision is made, individuals must take steps to reduce the impact of these changes.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- When does daylight saving time (DST) begin in the United States?
- What happens to the clocks when DST starts?
- Why was DST originally introduced?
- How does DST affect people’s sleep?
- What health problems have been linked to DST?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever had trouble sleeping because of a time change or a change in your schedule? If so, what did you do to adjust? If not, how do you make sure you get enough sleep?
- Have you ever traveled to a place with a different time zone? If so, did it affect your sleep? How did you feel? If not, what do you think would be the hardest part of adjusting to a new time zone?
- Do you agree that having a permanent time (no more switching) would be better?
- How do you think people in your country would react if the clocks changed twice a year? Would they support it or not?
- What are some ways people can stay safe when the time changes due to daylight saving time?