Activity Paper Option 2

For this activity paper, you will need to test your memory on two different occasions so as to investigate the hypothesis that sleep enhances memory.

During the first test, you will see how your memory for a list of words holds up over the course of 12 daytime hours. In the morning, you should read List 1 (included in the Activity Paper Options pdf) 5 times, with the goal of learning the words for later. Do not look at the list of words again during the day. Then, 12 hours later (so that same evening), you should try to recall the words – write down as many as you can, in any order. Score your performance by comparing your list to List 1 here, counting up how many you got correct.

During the second test, you will see how your memory for a list of words holds up over the course of 12 nighttime hours. At least one day after you’ve completed the first test, in the evening you should read List 2 (included in the Activity Paper Options pdf) 5 times, with the goal of learning the words for later. Do not look at the list of words again during the night. Then, 12 hours later (so the next morning), you should try to recall the words – write down as many as you can, in any order. Score your performance by comparing your list to List 1 here, counting up how many you got correct.

In your paper, first discuss the hypothesis (sleep enhances memory) – why might we propose that idea? To help you, read about consolidation in your textbook (pgs. 275-277), and think about interference (pgs. 281) as well. You are also welcome to consult other, reputable sources (such as: http://www.bbc.com/news/health-27695144 (链接到外部网站。), http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/matters/benefits-of-sleep/learning-memory (链接到外部网站。)). Then, describe your procedure, report your scores, and discuss whether or not your findings supported the hypothesis that sleep enhances memory. Why do you think you got the results you did?