Exam-style Questions: Biological Rhythms, Sleep and Dreaming
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Describe one research study into biological rhythms that has investigated the role of exogenous zeitgebers.
(Marks available: 6)
Answer outline and marking scheme for question: 1
You have probably written about Siffre's cave-dwelling investigation, although there are other possibilities, such as Aschoff's laboratory research on the 'free-running clock'.
The following table gives a mark scheme:
5-6 marks Detailed description of aim, method, results, conclusions and implications of study. 3-4 marks Description of study lacks detail and/or some aspects of study are omitted. 1-2 marks Basic information about some aspects of the study. (Marks available: 6)
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Describe one neurobiological theory explaining the functions of dreaming.
(Marks available: 12)
Answer outline and marking scheme for question: 2
This question could be answered by describing either Hobson & McCarley's Activation-Synthesis Theory or Crick and Mitchison's Reverse Learning Theory. You must be careful to avoid writing about psychological theories, such as Freud's Wish-Fulfilment Theory.
The following table gives an indication of mark allocation:
5-6 marks Detailed description of how the theory explains the process of dreaming. 3-4 marks Description of theory lacks detail and/or some aspects of theory are omitted. 1-2 marks Basic information about some aspects of the theory. (Marks available: 12)
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Describe and evaluate one theory of the functions of sleep.
(Marks available: 12)
Answer outline and marking scheme for question: 3
There are two ways to approach this question; either discussing a specific theory (for example, Oswald or Meddis) or a theoretical perspective (for example, 'restoration' or 'ecological' explanations).
You must make sure that you include a balance of description and evaluation - there are 6 marks available for each.
The following tables give a mark scheme:
Description:
5-6 marks Detailed description of how the theory explains the functions of sleep. 3-4 marks Description of theory lacks detail and/or some aspects of theory are omitted. 1-2 marks Basic information about some aspects of the theory. Evaluation:
5-6 marks You have provided a thorough analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen theory. You have used research studies that provide evidence for or against the theory. 3-4 marks You have provided a fair analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen theory. You have used research studies that provide evidence, although they may be limited. 1-2 marks You have provided minimal analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen theory. There is only superficial evaluation. (Marks available: 12)