Oxford AQA A Level Psychology: RESTORATION THEORIES OF SLEEP [3.3.1 Psychology of Sleep]

This fully editable lesson focuses on the restoration theories of sleep and the role of sleep in memory consolidation. Designed using the OxfordAQA International A-level Psychology (9685) specification, this lesson explores how sleep aids in physical and brain recovery as well as its impact on different types of memory.

Key Features:

Comprehensive Lesson Slides: The lesson covers key restoration theories proposed by Oswald (1966) and Horne (1980), explaining how REM and NREM sleep serve different restorative functions. Students will learn about the role of sleep in brain recovery, supported by case studies like those of Peter Tripp and Randy Gardner, and examine how sleep deprivation affects cognitive and physical functioning. Additionally, the lesson explains the role of REM and NREM sleep in memory consolidation, differentiating between declarative and procedural memory, and features studies by Karni et al. (1994) and Walker et al. (2002).

Interactive Activities: Engages students through a “Do Now” activity that prompts them to think about the effects of sleep deprivation on the brain and body. The lesson also features “Check it” questions that assess understanding, such as explaining the differences between Oswald’s and Horne’s models, evaluating the findings from sleep deprivation studies, and analysing the role of sleep in memory consolidation. Think-Pair-Share discussions and application questions throughout the lesson encourage deeper engagement with the material.

Assessment Materials: Includes exam-style questions with model answers, such as describing and evaluating the restoration theory of sleep, and explaining how motivation can affect performance during sleep deprivation. These materials help students apply theoretical knowledge and prepare for evaluation questions in exams, focusing on both strengths and limitations of the restoration theories.