Question 12

Recent research supports this conclusion.

Inserting "Recent research supports this conclusion" before sentence 4 effectively transitions the discussion from the historical context of sleep patterns to the contemporary studies that lend credence to these findings.

A) Recent research supports this conclusion.

This option is correct as it provides a logical segue into discussing the study conducted in 2015, emphasizing that modern research aligns with historical observations regarding human sleep patterns.

B) Workers lose many hours of productivity each year due to lack of sleep.

This option is incorrect because it introduces a new topic unrelated to the discussion of historical and recent sleep patterns. It does not connect to the preceding sentences nor the upcoming content about the 2015 study.

C) It is easier to stay asleep when it is dark outside.

This option is also incorrect as it presents a general statement about sleep that does not directly relate to the findings of the study or the historical context provided. It does not effectively bridge the two paragraphs.

D) Multiple sleep studies have been done, but only one is relevant.

This option is incorrect because it implies a dismissal of other research, which could mislead the reader. The context focuses on a specific study that supports the earlier conclusions rather than suggesting the irrelevance of other studies.

Conclusion

The selected answer, "Recent research supports this conclusion," is the most suitable choice as it effectively connects the historical context of sleep patterns with current scientific findings, reinforcing the overall argument. Other options fail to maintain the coherence of the argument or introduce unrelated themes, making them less effective as transitions.