The Science of Sleep

Kerry Robinson

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

The Science of Sleep

Understand the importance of sleep

This lesson introduces students to the science of sleep, highlighting its importance for health and learning. Students will explore their own sleep patterns and create a personalized sleep improvement plan. This lesson is crucial as it helps students understand how sleep affects their daily lives and academic performance, encouraging them to adopt healthier sleep habits.

Audience

11-Year-Olds

Time

45 mins

Approach

Understand the importance of sleep

Materials

Whiteboard and markers, Printed Sleep Improvement Plan Worksheet, Discussion Questions, and Pens

Step 1

Introduction to Sleep

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what sleep is and why it's important.
Ask students: "How do you feel when you don't get enough sleep?"
Write key points on the whiteboard about the benefits of sleep (e.g., energy, focus, mood).

Step 2

Exploring Sleep Patterns

15 mins

Distribute the Sleep Improvement Plan Worksheet.
Guide students to fill out their current sleep patterns (bedtime, wake-up time, total hours of sleep).
Discuss common sleep issues and how they might affect health and learning.

Step 3

Developing a Sleep Improvement Plan

15 mins

Have students use their worksheets to set realistic sleep goals (e.g., going to bed 15 minutes earlier).
Encourage them to think of strategies to improve their sleep (e.g., reducing screen time before bed).
Allow students to share their plans with a partner for feedback.

Step 4

Closure and Reflection

5 mins

Ask students to reflect on what they learned about sleep and how they plan to improve their sleep habits.
Encourage a few students to share their reflections with the class.
Conclude with a reminder of the importance of sleep for their health and learning.

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Worksheet

Sleep Improvement Plan Worksheet

This worksheet helps students track their current sleep patterns and develop a plan to improve their sleep habits.

What time do you usually go to bed?

Think about your typical bedtime on school nights.

What time do you usually wake up?

Consider your wake-up time on school days.

How many hours of sleep do you get on average?

Calculate the difference between your bedtime and wake-up time.

What is one goal you can set to improve your sleep?

Consider going to bed earlier or reducing screen time.

List two strategies to help you achieve your sleep goal.

Think about changes you can make to your evening routine.

Discussion

Discussion Questions

These questions guide a class discussion on the importance of sleep and personal sleep habits.

Why is sleep important for our health and learning?

Discuss how sleep affects energy levels, concentration, and mood.

What are some common reasons people don't get enough sleep?

Explore factors like screen time, stress, and irregular schedules.

How can we improve our sleep habits?

Encourage students to think about practical changes they can make.