psychologysyllabus
AP Psychology Syllabus

Goals of Course

AP Psychology is designed to be at a college level introductory course aimed at motivated high school students.  This course will be instructed as it would be on the college level.  Students are expected to complete all assignments on time and with great care.  A requirement of AP psychology is an independent completion of enrichment exercises and experiences.  Students are expected to attend all classes, take notes, and participate as a valuable member of the learning community.  An AP couse demands extra time and extra work beyond the usual high school demands.  The reward for this diligence should be a successful score on the AP Psychology Exam and subsequent college credit.  The richer reward for completing this course will be an increased understanding and appreciation for the field of study.  I look forward to a wonderful year!  Psychology should never be boring - it includes everything you have ever done or felt, everything your doing right now, and everything you will do in the future.

PSYCHOLOGY SYLLABUS

FIRST SEMESTER

I.    Introduction
      A. Introduction and History of Psychology
      B. Research Methodology

II.   Biopsychology
      A. The brain and behavior
      B. Sensation and perception
      C. States of consciousness

III.  Cognitive Domain
      A. Learning
      B. Memory
      C. Thinking and language

SECOND SEMESTER


IV.   Human Development
      A. Prenatal
      B. Infancy and Childhood
      C. Adolescence
      D. Adulthood and Aging

V.    Personality
      A. Motivation
      B. Theories of Personalities
      C. Testing and Intelligence

VI.   Health and Adjustment
      A. Stress and Health
      B. Psychological Disorders
      C. Methods of Treatment

VII.  Social Psychology
      A. Social Cognition
      B. Social Interaction
      C. Gender Roles



FINAL GRADE

Tests - four or more per nine weeks (40% of grade)

Quizzes - several - drop the lowest and average the rest. (20% of grade)

Homework - homework will be checked or collected at the beginning of the class in which it is due.  If you are absent from school for any reason, please check the webpage for assignments. (20% of grade)

Research Project/Presentations - There will be one research project every nine weeks.  Students will submit a typed paper and present their findings to the class. 
(20% of grade)

EXTRA CREDIT - Students may receive an additional 3 points on to their final average if both criteria are met:

1.  Notebook - students will maintain a neat and orderly notebook with lecture notes, handouts, quizzes, homework, research projects, etc.  Notebooks will be checked at the end of each grading period. 

2.  Participation - students who participate regularly and consistently in class discussions and activities.

The Henrico County Grading Scale is as follows:

93-100     A
85-92      B
77-84      C
70-76      D
below 70   F
Last updated  2011/03/03 21:56:13 ESTHits  864