Oxford AQA A Level Psychology: EXOGENOUS PACEMAKERS & ZEITGEBERS [3.3.1 Psychology of Sleep]

This fully editable lesson examines the roles of endogenous pacemakers and exogenous zeitgebers in regulating biological rhythms, particularly focusing on the sleep-wake cycle and related research studies. Designed using the OxfordAQA International A-level Psychology (9685) specification, this lesson provides in-depth coverage of key concepts and research findings.
Key Features:

Comprehensive Lesson Slides: Covers the principles of endogenous pacemakers, such as the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), and exogenous zeitgebers, including the role of light in resetting biological rhythms. The slides explain how these systems interact to regulate circadian rhythms and explore key studies, including Michel Siffre’s Cave Study (1975) and Stephan and Zucker’s research (1972) on the effects of SCN damage. Students will gain insight into how biological rhythms operate and the consequences of disruptions in these systems.

Interactive Activities: Engages students with a “Do Now” activity, asking them to consider how their body might adapt if isolated from light and clocks for several days. The lesson also includes a comparison table that encourages students to evaluate the methodological strengths and weaknesses of Siffre’s and Stephan and Zucker’s studies. Think-Pair-Share discussions and structured questions throughout help students apply their understanding to real-life examples, such as the impact of light on sleep patterns.

Assessment Materials: Includes exam-style questions with model answers, asking students to describe and evaluate research into circadian rhythms. Students will critically assess the strengths and limitations of key studies and evaluate ethical issues, such as the use of animals in research and the long-term psychological effects on human participants. This helps students develop skills needed for higher-level evaluation in psychology exams.