TOEFL iBT · Complete the Words · Sleep and memory

Sleep and the strengthening of memories

Sleep is not simply a period of rest for the brain. During de__ sleep, t__ brain react______ patterns o_ activity th__ were reco____ while peo___ were lear____, and su__ reactivation se___ to strengthen new memories. In laboratory studies, volunteers who slept after practicing a task usually performed better the next day than volunteers who stayed awake for the same length of time. These findings suggest that a good night's rest may be an important part of studying, not a break from it.