WRITING TASKSunlight is an important part of our survival. The amount of sunlight that people, plants, or animals receive can affect their lives in many areas.Think about what you have read, and then write an explanatory essay in your own words explaining the various effects of sunlight.Be sure to use evidence from BOTH texts in your explanatory essay. Write your response in the space provided.Before you write, be sure to:think about ideas, facts, definitions, details, and other information and examples you want to use;think about how you will introduce your topic and what the main topic will be for each paragraph;develop your ideas clearly and use your own words, except when quoting directly from the source texts;be sure to identify the sources by title or number when using details or facts directly from the sources.Now write your explanatory essay in the space provided. Be sure to:use information from the two texts so that your essay includes important details;introduce the topic clearly, provide a focus, and organize information in a way that makes sense;develop the topic with facts, definitions, details, quotations, or other information and examples related to the topic;use appropriate and varied transitions to create cohesion;clarify the relationships among ideas and concepts;use clear language and vocabulary to inform about the topic;establish and maintain a formal style;provide a conclusion that follows the information presented; andcheck your work for correct grammar, usage, capitalization, spelling, and punctuation.

The importance of sunlight for our survival cannot be overstated. Sunlight plays a vital role in the lives of people, plants, and animals, impacting various aspects of their existence. This essay aims to explain the various effects of sunlight on individuals and the natural world.

Sunlight has a profound influence on our physical and mental well-being. According to Text 1, exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D in our bodies, which is essential for the absorption of calcium and the development and maintenance of strong bones. Lack of sunlight can lead to vitamin D deficiency, resulting in bone diseases such as rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. Additionally, sunlight has been linked to improved mood and mental health. Text 2 highlights that sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. Insufficient exposure to sunlight can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), characterized by depression and low energy levels during the darker months.

Plants are highly dependent on sunlight for their growth and survival. Text 1 mentions that sunlight is vital for photosynthesis, the process through which plants convert sunlight into energy. Sunlight provides the energy needed to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, the essential components for plant growth. Insufficient sunlight can stunt plant growth, resulting in weak and unhealthy plants. Additionally, the amount of sunlight a plant receives can affect its flowering and fruiting patterns. Some plants require specific amounts of sunlight to bloom or bear fruit, making sunlight a crucial factor in determining crop yields and the productivity of agricultural systems.

The effects of sunlight extend beyond humans and plants to the animal kingdom. Text 2 highlights that sunlight is critical for regulating the body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. Animals, including humans, rely on this internal clock for various biological functions, such as sleep-wake cycles and hormone regulation. Exposure to natural sunlight helps synchronize the circadian rhythm, ensuring optimal physiological functioning. Furthermore, sunlight plays a significant role in the migration patterns and behavior of animals. Many species rely on sunlight cues to navigate their surroundings, determine breeding seasons, and find food sources.

In conclusion, sunlight has far-reaching effects on our lives and the natural world. It is crucial for human health, influencing the production of vitamin D and promoting mental well-being. For plants, sunlight is essential for photosynthesis and overall growth, while for animals, it regulates the body's internal clock and behaviors. Recognizing the importance of sunlight and ensuring adequate exposure is vital for maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem.