We have not yet learned about sleep in this course. However, for this assignment, I would like you to start thinking about the importance of sleep. Later in the course, we will have a lecture about sleep and circadian rhythms. Think of a person that you care about in your life. Write a compelling letter that aims to convince him or her about the benefits of sleep for optimal health and general well-being. This letter should be about 4 or 5 paragraphs (but if you love the assignment, and you want to write more, go right ahead). To support your argument, use information from one or more of the following:
Watch these two TED talks: Sleep is your superpower- Matt WalKer Sleep and immunity- Matt Walker and/or Read this article: scientificamericanmind0118-84.pdf and/or (This article might be a bit difficult to read at the moment and if so, ignore it for now. It will become more accessible later in the term). Explore the following website: http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/ As you watch the TED talks, and/or read the article, make sure to take notes that you can later use in your letter. Please include the following in your letter: – What psychological factors are supported by enough sleep or affected by the lack of it (i.e., memory, attention, concentration, emotional regulation, etc…)? – What physiological factors are supported by enough sleep or affected by the lack of it? – What is known about the impact of new technologies on the amount that Americans sleep, and why is this important? – What specific suggestions can you provide to ensure adequate amounts of sleep? – A brief closing section that summarizes the main points of the letter.
