Research Question: What are the effects of sleep deprivation on decision-making abilities?
MLA Citation: Nicholls, Henry. “Opinion | Let Teenagers Sleep In.” The New York Times, nytimes.com.
Summary: In “Let Teenagers Sleep In,” Henry Nicholls argues that teenagers’ biological rhythms make it difficult for them to wake up early, and that adjusting school start times would align better with their natural sleep cycles. According to Nicholls, teenagers academic performance is impacted by sleep deprivation, but it also has wider effects on their mental and physical health. Prolonged sleep deprivation can lead to major problems, such as poor concentration, poor decision-making, and a higher chance of mental health conditions like depression. The article cites research that shows how sleep deprivation impairs memory and focus, two abilities necessary for sound decision-making. According to Nicholls, schools should put students’ health first by modifying their timetables to lessen sleep deprivation, which will improve teens’ capacity for wise decision-making.
Rhetorical Analysis: This piece is intended for parents, educators, and policymakers who can influence school schedules. Nicholls uses ethos by referencing scientific studies on teens sleep needs. The article also appeals to pathos, highlighting the struggles many teenagers face when trying to maintain early wake up times despite their biology. Additionally, Nicholls uses logos by presenting statistics and studies, such as those showing improvements in grades and overall well-being when students get enough rest.
Notable Quotables:
- “At its most basic, insufficient sleep results in reduced attention and impaired memory, hindering student progress and lowering grades.”(Nicholls)
- “Sleep deprivation is likely to lead to mood and emotional problems, increasing the risk of mental illness.”(Nicholls)
