Read the following passage and then answer the questions that follow:
According to a study conducted by Smith et al. (2023), students who participate in sports activities during their school years tend to perform better academically than those who do not engage in such activities. The research suggests that the discipline, time management skills, and teamwork learned through sports contribute positively to academic achievement. Additionally, a report by the National Education Association (NEA) highlights that extracurricular involvement, including sports, can lead to improved attendance and higher graduation rates among students. Therefore, integrating sports programs into school curricula not only promotes physical health but also enhances overall academic success.
How does the paragraph suggest sports programs impact academic success?
d) By causing distractions in classrooms
c) By improving attendance and graduation rates
a) By reducing attendance rates
b) By leading to lower graduation rates