【WPMの測定手順】
1. 読む前に設問を確認する
2. 時計(ストップウォッチ)を見ながら、英文を最初から最後まで読み、かかった秒数を記録する
3. 設問に解答する
4. 答え合わせをして正解数を確認する
以下の計算式でWPMを算出する
WPM = 語数 ÷ 読むのにかかった秒数 × 60 × 正解数 ÷ 設問数
※読んだ内容の理解を測定せずただ英文を読むスピードをチェックしたい場合は、WPM = 語数 ÷ 読むのにかかった秒数 × 60 まででOK。
Better Ways to Wake Up: Protecting Your Heart
Many of us start the day with the sharp noise of a phone alarm. However, new research from the University of Virginia warns that this habit may hurt our hearts. The study, released in April 2025 at a major heart-health conference, has gained attention. Doctoral student Yeonsu Kim asked thirty-two adults to sleep only five hours and then wake up either naturally or with a loud alarm. Those forced awake showed a morning blood pressure jump that was seventy-four percent higher than people who woke on their own. Such a surge activates the sympathetic nervous system, the body’s “fight-or-flight” center, causing rapid heartbeat, anxiety, headaches, and even nosebleeds. Repeated surges have been linked to strokes and heart attacks later in life.
The good news is that a few small changes can greatly reduce this risk. One helpful tool is a sunrise alarm clock. The device stays dark while you sleep and then brightens slowly, copying the natural dawn. The growing light tells the brain to lower melatonin, the hormone that keeps you sleepy, so you wake feeling calm and clear-headed. Gentle alarm apps that start with soft music or flowing water sounds and slowly increase volume can work as well. Studies in 2020 showed that melodic alarms shorten sleep inertia, the heavy mental fog many people feel after opening their eyes. By choosing a kinder wake-up method tonight, you can give your heart a healthier, happier start tomorrow. Daily habits quietly shape long-term heart health far more than people think. (250 words)
☆Answer the questions☆
(1) According to the study, how much higher was the blood pressure surge in alarm-woken participants?
a) 24 % b) 54 % c) 74 % d) 94 %
(2) Which body system is triggered by the sudden surge?
a) Digestive system b) Sympathetic nervous system c) Immune system d) Respiratory system
(3) What device copies the natural dawn to help you wake up?
a) Coffee maker b) Sunrise alarm clock c) Fitness tracker d) Smart pillow
(4) What did 2020 studies find about melodic alarms?
a) They raise blood pressure b) They shorten sleep inertia c) They increase melatonin d) They reduce heart rate

【Answer】