Clock Change to Solar Time: A "Mini Jet Lag" for the Body
Listen to the story
Twice a year, clocks change in many countries. This includes the move to solar time, also called 'winter time'.
Experts compare this change to a jet lag, which usually happens after long flights. Even though the clock only moves one hour, it can confuse the body's internal clock.
This internal clock controls sleep, energy, and mood. A small change can still cause tiredness or trouble sleeping for a few days.
In Italy, this topic is also political. A member of the Lega party, Barabotti, spoke about the issue. The Camera, Italy's lower house of parliament, voted. All members agreed to end the system of changing clocks twice a year.
This kind of vote is called unanimous, meaning everyone agreed. However, it is not yet clear when this change will fully happen.
People are also asking simple questions. When does solar time start? Do clocks move forward or back? These questions come up every year before the change.
Health experts suggest preparing a few days before the change. Going to bed a little earlier or later can help the body adjust more easily.
Vocabulary6 words
- solar time
- the time used in winter, based on the sun
- jet lag
- feeling tired after flying across time zones
- internal clock
- the body's natural system for sleep and energy
- Lega
- an Italian political party
- Camera
- the lower house of the Italian parliament
- unanimous
- when everyone agrees, with no one against
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Quiz
Answer key
1. A type of jet lag 2. The internal clock 3. Ending the twice-yearly clock change
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Fill-in-the-blank listening
Play the audio again and fill in the missing words as you listen.
Twice a year, clocks change in many countries, including the move to _____.
Experts compare this change to a _____, which usually happens after long flights.
This internal clock controls _____, energy, and mood.
In Italy, a member of the _____ party, Barabotti, spoke about the issue.
The _____, Italy's lower house of parliament, voted to end the double clock change.
This kind of vote is called _____, meaning everyone agreed.
Health experts suggest preparing a few days before the _____.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever felt like your body clock was confused? When?
- Do you think countries should stop changing clocks twice a year? Why?
- How do you usually adjust your sleep when something changes your schedule?
- What questions do people often ask you before a time change?
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