Psychology
1st Semester 2008 MLHS
Instructor: Mr. Fischer
Course Description
Psychology involves the study of behavior and can help students learn to work together and to understand themselves. Students are introduced to its basic principles and terminology to help them learn more about why people behave the way they do. Students are encouraged to examine their own behavior in an effort to learn more about themselves and the reasons for their behavior. Major units covered include experimentation in psychology, biological factors in behavior, learning patterns, personality development, personality theory, mental health, and mental disorders. The course combines lectures, discussions, readings, presentations and in-class experiments.
Course Objectives
The primary objective of all introduction psychology courses is to explore the subject matter of the field. The student will become familiar with the vocabulary and concepts of the field and with some of the research findings upon which our knowledge of human behavior is based.
One goal of this class is to emphasize the development of critical thinking skills and to prepare the student to be a cautious and analytical consumer of information that proclaims to be scientific or be based on research.
Other goals are that the student will derive personal benefits from the class, the student will have increased their understanding and acceptance of themselves and others, and that they will gain some tools to help them meet the challenges of school, family, relationships and their chosen occupation.
Materials Needed
· Text - Understanding Psychology (2003) - By: Richard A. Kasschau
· Blue or Black ink pens/or pencils
· Paper – loose leaf is preferred
· Notebook – will be used for journals assignments and be turned in
· Three-ring binder: this binder is an important study tool that MUST be brought to all classes. All materials should be clearly dated and kept in chronological order. Materials to be included: Lecture and class notes, worksheets, handouts, personal observations, notebook and all homework assignments.
Grades
Participation=5% Homework=25%
Quizzes=5% Projects=20%
Tests=30% Final Exam=15%
*There will be NO extra credit in this class.
Grading Scale:
95-100% A
93-94% A-
91-92% B+
87-90% B
85-86% B-
83-84% C+
79-82% C
77-78% C-
75-76% D+
72-74% D
70-71% D-
Below 70% F
Tests
1. Tests will be objective with some essay questions.
2. If you miss a test during the semester, an alternative test must be taken within one week of returning to school.
3. If you missed a test or quiz because you were absent, you will be given one day for each day absent. If not a “0” will be given for the missed test/quiz.
4. Field trip absences do NOT excuse a student from taking the test/quiz on the day the student comes back.
5. Retakes may be taken on tests only. The test will not be the same as the first test taken and the retake score will be averaged with the first test score. To retake a test you must meet the following criteria:
1. You must have had all homework and assignments completed and turned in by due dates.
2. You must correct the mistakes on your test.
3. Meet with an instructor to answer questions.
*Complete retake within two weeks of original test date or six week grading period.
Homework
1. Homework is due at the beginning of class to receive full credit.
2. Late assignments may be turned in before a chapter is completed for half credit.
3. If getting work done becomes a problem the teacher can use the school Academic
Action Plan to help the student improve.
4. If you are absent for any reason you must still turn in your work or make up the
assignment. You will be given one day for each day absent. If it is still late it will be ½
off.
5. All assignments will be posted on the Social Studies web page under "Mr. Fischer's
assignments".
Projects
1. Each student will be required to complete two projects during the course of the
semester.
2. The first project will entail writing a report on a psychological topic (a separate
handout will give more information on both projects) and presenting it to the class.
Due October 24th
3. The second project will involve psychoanalyzing a famous figure and writing a report
on your findings/research. Due December 15th
4. Each project will account for 10% of your semester grade.
Participation
1. You are expected to be prompt to class and in your seat before the bell rings.
2. Bring all appropriate materials to class (book, 3 ring binder, paper, pen, homework).
3. Show evidence that you have read the assignments.
4. Participate in class discussions to help clarify the materials.
5. Work with classmates to help generate new ideas and stimulate learning.
Final Exam
At the end of the semester there will be a cumulative final exam worth 15% of your final grade.
Absence Policy
1. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to find out what you missed and make it
up. You will have one week.
2. If you know that you will be absent, get assignments before the anticipated absence.
3. Work will not be made up if a student deliberately cuts class.
Attendance Policy
1. If you are not in your seat when the bell rings you are considered tardy.
2. THREE TARDIES per unit will lower your grade by 5%.
3. THREE UNEXCUSED ABSENCES per unit will lower your grade 10%.
Cheating
If a student is found cheating on any test, quiz, project or assignment the result will be a “0” given for the work. The student will then go to the Dean of Students where the Academic Integrity Policy will be enacted.
Extra Help
1. I will be available before school at 7:30 (Tues-Fri) and after school on most days until 4:00 unless coaching.
2. IF YOU ARE HAVING DIFFICULTIES, PLEASE SEE ME.
Contact Info:
Off periods – 1st Semester – 2 & 4
Email-
School Phone – 414-461-6000 ext 265
Room Number- 204
Class Expectations:
1. Treat people with dignity and respect
2. Care about others
3. Follow policies and procedures
4. Be on time and ready for class
5. Perform to the best of your ability
6. Save eating & drinking for the cafeteria (except for water)
Emergency Rules:
Fire – Use Southwest Doors
Tornado – Walk quietly to freshmen hallway
Medical – inform teacher first, go to office
Chapter Themes:
1 - Introduction of Psychology/History
2 - Learning and Cognitive Processes
3 - Memory and Thought
4 - Body and Behavior
6 - Motivation and Emotion
8 - Infancy and Childhood
9 - Adolescence
11 - Personality Theory
15 - Abnormal Behavior
Teaching Cues:
Class will start when someone goes to the podium and does the devotion.