AP Psychology Nuts and Bolts Name: ______

AP Psych Nuts & Bolts Keep yourself organized by….

A. Class, Binder & Notebook Organization: The AP Psychology course has numerous handouts, outlines and class notes. Therefore, as an organizational tool, use a 3 ring binder at least 2 inches thick (you may need one for each semester). You will also need 18 subject dividers to store all of the materials. It is important to maintain this notebook organization on a daily basis! These binders will be graded per unit for neatness, organization and completion. All student materials will be on notebook paper or on handouts.

The following are ideas of what should go in your sections:

 Syllabus and Binder Check  Tab One: The NUTS and BOLTS, Resources, handouts, etc.  Tab Two: Vocab Tab  Tab Three: Theorist Tab  Tab Four: Psychology Bridge and Actions (3 per semester)  Tabs 5 through 22: Sections for each unit i. Unit Outline, Essential Questions and Vocab Sheets ii. Class notes iii. Chapter outlines-4 page maximum in length- handwritten. iv. Readings/ handouts distributed during the unit v. 40 Studies assignments- See directions vi. Class demonstrations for the unit-with assignment- See directions vii. Media notes / critiques viii. Any other assignments  Review section at end of binder for the semester exam and the AP test B. Class Demonstration Format When we have class demonstrations you will need to debrief the experience. Keep your demonstrations in your binder with each unit.

1. Summary: A one paragraph summary of the classroom demonstration as it was presented in class. 2. Vocabulary: 5 vocabulary terms, each defined in 5 words or less, with each term applied to the demonstration. 3. Connection: A one paragraph explanation of how this demonstration applies to the present unit and any connections to previous units.

C. Operational Definitions  The purpose of operational definitions is to explain a concept in easy words.  The definitions must be measurable.  Others may not agree with your definition yet they are able to understand it AND measure it!  Define vocabulary in 5 words or less.  Do not use sentences.  Use your own words.  Keep a long list in your binder or notebook all year long. Double Check your Vocab Lists from each unit!  Example: Teenager - a teenager by operational definition is - an individual between the ages of 13-19 D. Forty Studies That Changed Psychology Notes Format

ARice 1 2012-2013 AP Psychology Nuts and Bolts Name: ______

 See 40 Studies handout for questions (in Nuts and Bolts Tab)

E. Psychology Bridges and Actions:  See “Psychology Bridge and Action” handout (in Nuts and Bolts Tab)  2 Bridges + 1 Action= 3 per semester  Template can be found online also.

F. How to study effectively for AP Psychology

Underline all new vocabulary in your notebook. If there are terms that are unclear, look them up in the Psychology text & record them in your notes. If you are unable to find a satisfactory explanation, make a note to ask the teacher at the beginning of the next class. Use operational definitions and remember to stay with the 5 word or less rule.

 Remember to incorporate the class demonstrations into the notes.  Highlight any concepts that the teacher said that you would definitely need to know for the next test, or on which the teacher spent a significant amount of time.  Create a study sheet for test review, include vocabulary and test ideas from the notes, remember to limit these to one page.  Many students find it productive to type the daily lecture notes that evening. Keep the handwritten copy for credit/notebook checks.  It is very important to study as the unit progresses, do not wait until the end of the unit to “start” to study. Do not procrastinate!!!!  In order to learn, it is essential to understand the material, ASK QUESTIONS!

G. Test Corrections:

You will have the opportunity to correct your tests for a 1/3 of a point back to your overall test score. You will have a two week window after taking the test to come in during ac lab or after school. You may use your book and your notes to help in this process. All missed points need to be corrected by highlighting the correct answer on your scan tron and by writing a statement about why the answer is the correct answer on a separate sheet of paper. When doing corrections you need to check out your test folder with Mrs. Rice. AT NO POINT are you allowed to leave the room with TEST MATERIALS. Once you are finished with corrections you will need to hand your test folder back to Mrs. Rice with the test in the folder.

ARice 2 2012-2013