Syllabus
Overview:
Psychology is the systematic study of individual human behavior and experience. The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the content, terminology, methodology, and application of the discipline. This survey course contains an introduction followed by four units based on the physiological, cognitive, behavioral, and affective domains of psychology. This elective course stresses the application of academic content to the student’s life.
STUDENT OUTCOMES
As a result of this study of psychology, students will demonstrate the ability to:
• Understand the nature of human beings, both as individuals and as members of social groups.
• Appreciate psychology, both as an academic discipline and as a body of knowledge relevant to the student’s life and culture.
• Examine the major concepts and theories of psychology.
• Apply critical thinking skills and be aware of the need for careful, objective evaluation of psychological ideas.
• Employ the various methods of psychological inquiry.
• Maintain high ethical standards and sensitivity in applying the principles of psychology to themselves, other people, and other organisms.
• Recognize and apply psychological principles to everyday situations
Assessment/Grading:
In order to access how students are learning, this class will use a number of different methodologies.
· Section Quizzes(written or oral)
· Chapter and Unit Tests
· Research Papers
· Individual, partner, and group Projects(1-2 per marking period)
· Daily homework
Learning Activities:
Here are some learning activities that students will participate in that will best prepare them to do well on the assessments.
· Reading
· Writing
· Research
· Discussion
· Lecture
· Problem-solving
· Case studies
· Projects
· Presentations
· Web-based lessons
· Group activities
Learning Materials:
Students will be provided with a new book, Glencoe – Economics, Today and Tomorrow. This book is expected to be returned in the same condition it was received. Students will need to bring this text to class everyday. This will be the basis for our daily instructions.
Students will also need to bring a pencil and notebook everyday to class.
Cell Phone Use
Refer to Agenda Book
How does this Apply to Me:
Have you ever experienced a physical reaction to an emotional situation? Sweating, shaking or stomach discomfort before a big test, a game, a presentation or performance? Have you ever known someone was talking about you when you walked into a room even without anyone saying anything? Has a certain smell or song ever brought back a strong memory? Have you found yourself attracted to someone you have nothing in common with? Have your sleep patterns changed since you reached adolescence? All of these situations have much to do with brain chemistry and illustrate the intrinsic connection between mind and body. While we cannot always control our feelings and behaviors, we can understand and manage them with awareness using psychological and neurobiological tools.
We all learn differently, react differently and process information differently, [one reason why eye witness testimony is the least reliable type of evidence in court], however there are theories that sometimes prove that we are more predictable than we realize. Why is there evil in the world? There are Psychologists that have theories that can explain that too.
EXTRA CREDIT
Generally extra credit will not be provided. However, the Mr. Olkkonen reserves the right to provide opportunities for extra credit if he sees fit.
RETAKE OPPORTUNITIES
Students must set up an appointment and meet with Mr Olkkonen if interested in retaking an assessment. Retake opportunities must display that students understand and grasp key concepts and knowledge. Students can earn up to half of all deducted points back.
ABSENCES
Students who miss class are expected to submit missed work in a timely manner (1-2 days) upon their return to school.
LATE WORK
Work turned in late is subject to grade deductions, regardless of printer or computer malfunctions, prior commitments, or forgetfulness.
- Assignments turned in on or before the due date will receive 100% credit.
- Assignments turned in after the due date and before the end of the instructional unit will receive 75% of the graded score IF the late work meets basic requirements.
- Late work is not accepted after the end of the instructional unit.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
Academic theft is taken seriously in schools, colleges, and professional settings. Therefore, it is essential for students to complete their own work at all times. Plagiarism is the deliberate or unintentional use of another person’s words or ideas without giving proper credit.
The following circumstances are considered acts of cheating:
- copying information or answers from another student
- allowing another student to copy work
- excessive collaboration on an assignment meant to be done individually
- sharing test/quiz questions/answers with students who have not yet taken the test/quiz
The following circumstances are considered acts of plagiarism:
- using another author’s words or ideas and passing them off as one’s own.
- copying some portion of a print or electronic text without properly citing it.
- allowing someone else to edit or revise one’s writing rather than accepting suggestions for improvement.
- turning in an essay, project, or portions thereof created by another student or a print or online essay service.
Please refer to the KHS Student Handbook for additional details.