Have you ever felt like yawning just by reading the word “yawn”? This is called contagious yawning, and it can happen for different reasons—both physical and mental. It’s been seen in kids as young as four years old and even in dogs! Learn fascinating ideas that might explain why yawning spreads from one person (or animal) to another.

Spark your thinking!

1. Set up your Science mini spark recording page: #35: Yawing 

2. Watch this TED Ed video. Write down 5+ terms mentioned in the video.

3. Choose 2 of these questions to answer on your recording page. Use at least 2 sentences for your response. Remind your teacher that the key can be found in the science mini spark folder.

1. What is contagious yawning, and how is it described in the video?
     

2. Explain the concept of nonconscious mimicry as it relates to yawning.
     

3. What role do mirror neurons play in the phenomenon of contagious yawning?
     

4. What interesting observation did scientists discover about dogs and yawning?
     

5. Reflect on a time when you yawned after seeing someone else yawn. What do you think caused that reaction?

4. Read this article.  Record important 5+ details.
5. Read this article. Write a 5 question quiz, true or false or multiple choice style.  Include an answer key.
6. Share your Science mini spark recording page with your teacher/EY coordinator.