WHY WE NEED SLEEP

WHY WE NEED SLEEP LESSON

Directions:

Print the Why We Need Sleep reading comprehension passage and questions (see below).

Older students should read the passage silently, then answer the questions.  Teachers may also use the text as part of a classroom lesson plan.

Lesson Excerpt

You might wonder why your mom and dad make you have the same bedtime every single night. It's no fun having to go to bed on a schedule especially if you're not tired. However, they have a reason for sending you to bed when they do. You're growing and in order to remain healthy there are many things your body is going to need. You will need good food, exercise, and of course plenty of rest.

Think of all the things you do in one day. Most kids wake up and go to school. They do all their school work and sometimes they even have homework. Once school is over they might go outside and play and of course there are chores and other responsibilities they have to handle. That equals a lot of things for one person. Once all this is done the average body is tired and ready for some relaxation. Your body needs to be able to calm down from a long day and get ready for the next one, tomorrow.

All living things need sleep in order to live a healthy life. You may have noticed your dog or cat taking a nap throughout the day. Animals need to sleep just like you do. A nap here and there gives the body a chance to refuel and store more energy.

Sleep will not only help you to stay healthy but it also will keep you smart. Sleep affects nearly every part of your body, even your brain. You might wonder what happens when you sleep and why it is so important. Scientists wonder the same thing which is why sleep is often studied so they can get a better understanding. (continued...)