Extract:
Sunny-Side Up
Most people are familiar with the damaging effects of the sun on unprotected skin, but not enough attention is paid to the many positive effects of receiving direct exposure to sunlight on a regular basis.
The most compelling argument for increased exposure to sunlight is the need for vitamin D in the human body. Vitamin D is integral for maintaining healthy bones and preventing diseases like rickets and osteoporosis. It is synthesized by the skin when it comes into contact with the UVB rays found in sunlight. In order to ensure you are receiving the proper amount of vitamin D, it is recommended to get 15 minutes of direct exposure to sunlight at least two or three times a week. UVB rays are made less intense when passing through clouds and pollution, and they will not transmit through glass or sunscreen. UVB rays are also less effective the farther you are from the equator. People with darker skin require more exposure to the sun to receive the same amount of vitamin D.
In addition to vitamin D, sunlight will help regulate the circadian rhythms that ensure you get a good night’s sleep. Sunlight helps to prevent an overactive immune system, which may prove useful in preventing autoimmune diseases like psoriasis and lupus. Recent studies have even shown that sunlight can help lessen the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
The negative impacts of excess exposure to sunlight should not be ignored; cancers resulting from skin damage are a real concern that must be taken seriously. But the importance of vitamin D and the other positive impacts of sunlight make a compelling argument for making sure we are spending enough time every week in direct sunlight.
What is the author’s primary purpose in writing this essay?
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A
To persuade
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B
To reflect
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C
To entertain
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D
To analyze
The author's primary purpose is to persuade readers to seek appropriate sunlight exposure by systematically building a case for its benefits while acknowledging but minimizing risks.
A) To persuade
The opening directly states "not enough attention is paid" to sunlight benefits, implying readers need convincing. The author then builds a persuasive case with scientific evidence (vitamin D synthesis mechanics, circadian regulation, immune benefits), addresses counterarguments (skin cancer) only to minimize them ("should not be ignored" but outweighed by benefits), and concludes with a call to action: "making sure we are spending enough time every week in direct sunlight."
B) To reflect
No personal experiences or introspective musings appear. The author maintains objective distance while advocating, a persuasive rather than reflective stance.
C) To entertain
No narrative elements, humor, or engaging anecdotes. The tone is informational with advocacy intent, not designed for enjoyment.
D) To analyze
While scientific information is presented, the author doesn't dissect sunlight mechanisms in depth or maintain analytical neutrality, they advocate for increased exposure, revealing persuasive rather than analytical purpose.
Conclusion
Persuasive writing combines problem identification ("not enough attention"), evidence presentation, counterargument acknowledgment, and behavioral recommendation. This passage's structure exemplifies persuasive intent through its systematic advocacy for balanced sunlight exposure.