The Science of Sleep

A sleeping cat.

Notes

Please watch the following video describing the stages of sleep in humans.

Stages of Sleep - non-REM, REM, Sleep Studies (3:40)


As a class, we will read an article about some of the research that has been done into sleep, in animals and humans.


Randy Gardner set the world record for the longest time without sleeping, lasting over 11 days.


Questions


  1. When does most dreaming occur?
  2. When is sleepwalking most likely to occur?
  3. Why do you think a lack of sleep causes problems in mammals?
  4. What symptoms do you notice in yourself when you do not get enough sleep?
  5. What ethical problems are there in sleep research?


Sleepy Dog Fights Off Nap (0:57)