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AP

Miss Altland Palmyra Area High School Room 107

2016-2017 Course Syllabus and Classroom Expectations

Contact Email- [email protected] Website- https://classroom.google.com/u/0/c/MTYzMjk0NzUyNFpa Phone- (717) 838-1331 Ext. 2107 Office Hours by appointment- Mornings 7:30 to 7:50 and Afternoons 2:45 to 3:15

Course Purpose The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, , and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the and methods psychologists use in their and practice. (College Board, 2013)

Course Description Advanced Placement Psychology is designed as a rigorous curriculum that provides an overview of current psychological theory and practice. Students will explore the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of and other animals. Students will be exposed to the principles, , and phenomena associated with major subfields within psychology, including biological bases of behavior, cognitive and emotional processes, and diagnoses and treatment of psychological disorders. In accordance with the driving principles of current psychological practice, this course will emphasize scientific method and procedure, ethical standards in research, and skills. Student academic performance is expected to meet or exceed the challenging requirements of an introductory-level college survey course. Student work will be required outside of class . The course provides the opportunity for students to receive college credit by taking the A.P. Psychology Exam in May. Students are strongly encouraged to register for the A.P. exam in the spring. Fees for the A.P. exam are to be paid by the student.

AP Psychology is a one-year course that will meet approximately 135 . Palmyra Area High School operates on a modified block schedule. The school day is composed of five 72-minute classes. Students will participate in AP Psychology every day during the first semester. During the second semester students will participate in AP Psychology every other day.

Course Standards 1. This course aims to make YOU a budding psychologist. The course will stress the need to think like a psychologist. Whether you choose to pursue a career in Psychology or a completely different field, this habit of will be of great value. 2. Mastery of Psychology’s core concepts. 3. The ability to graphically represent complex concepts. 4. The ability to apply complex concepts or multifaceted units of study in discussion and written work. 5. The ability to apply Psychology to your life. Application does not stop once you leave the classroom. The concepts we study shape our . Thought ‘Psych Immersions.’ You will constantly look for psychological applications in your life. 6. Literacy in the 21st century skills you need for success in today’s world. At Palmyra Area High School we don’t just teach you content, we teach you how to use that content. At the end of this course you’ll be able to: a. Read, review, and critique real psychological research. b. Write about psychology for your peers, while improving your writing skills. c. Be critical consumers of scientific research. d. Review, compare, and contrast scholarly publications in the field of psychology. e. Analyze and research controversial psychological issues. f. Think critically and logically about research findings using psychological terms. g. Use problem-solving techniques to solve your real world problems. h. Use technology to enhance . i. Collaborate in a professional learning community through small groups. j. Orally present and debate a complex argument based on psychological research. k. Analyze, interpret, and respond to -based data including charts, graphs, cartoons, and quotes. l. Discuss both historical and contemporary psychological issues and psychology-related events. m. Utilize a variety of study aides to increase overall level. n. Evaluate strengths and weaknesses in your own academic performances. o. personal learning foals to hold yourself accountable not only for high scores, but also for true learning of content and skills. 7. To change the way you view the world!

Course Expectations 1. We learn from each other- COLLABORATION! 2. for life application 3. Psychologists read- As AP students, you will be expected to do a considerable amount of daily reading in the text, etc. You must show evidence of daily preparation by participating in class discussions, asking critical questions, making text-to-world connections, and bring a rough draft of your map to each class. 4. Active note taking 5. A College-Level Effort

Course Text Zimbardo, P. G., Johnson, R. L., Weber, A. L., and Gruber, C. W. (2010). Psychology: AP Edition with Discovering Psychology (10th ed.). Prentice Hall, Inc.

I strongly recommend that students acquire a test preparation resource to use in conjunction with the materials distributed in the AP Psychology course. Many test preparation resources will aid students in determining a proper schedule for AP Psychology exam preparation.

1. AP Psychology All Access, Fenton, N. (2012) 2. Kaplan AP Psychology, Hakala, C. (2012) 3. AP Psychology Crash Course, Krieger, L. (2011) 4. 5 Steps to a 5: AP Psychology, Maitland, L. L. (2013) 5. Barron’s AP Psychology, McEntarffer, R., and Weseley, A. J. (2012) 6. 5 Steps to a 5: 500 Psychology Questions to Know by Test Day, Williams, L. (2011)

Course Requirements Many materials will be available to you in the classroom; however, this is a list of items that you will need to be successful and organized in AP Psychology. 1. 1-3” 3-ring Binder 2. Notebook paper 3. Pencil 4. Blue or Black ink pen for exams 5. Google Account Access- You will be expected to check your email frequently for updates and announcements. Any information you need to know will be posted in our Google Classroom page. 6. Access to Internet- Please see me privately if this will be an issue for you at home. Optional, but strongly encouraged: 7. 16-20 Binder Section Dividers 8. Highlights (at least 2 colors)

Tentative Course Schedule 1. This schedule is a GUIDE to the school year. It is to change as necessary. Every group of students is different and will progress at a different rate. The course will be adjusted, as needed, in response to student needs and/or interests. Any modifications to this schedule will be announced in class and through Email. 2. More accurate and detailed schedule will be distributed at the beginning of each unit for student purposes. 3. Don’t Forget: Beginning January 17, 2017 we will only meet every other day.

Introduction: August 29- September 1 Unit 1: September 5- September 16 Unit 7: September 19- September 23 Unit 2: September 26- October 7 Unit 14: October 11- October 21 Unit 3: October 24- November 4 Unit 4: November 7- November 18 Unit 5: November 29- December 2 Unit 6: December 5- December 14 Unit 8: December 15- December 23 Unit 9: January 2- January 13 Unit 10: January 17- February 3 Unit 11: February 6- February 22 Unit 12: February 23- March 24 Unit 13: March 27- April 19 AP Exam Review: April 20- April 28 Exam: May 1, 2017 After the Exam Projects: May 2- June 7

Teaching Strategies Although this course requires some lecture (there is no way around this!), students will be expected to play a large role in their own learning process through analysis, critical thinking, writing, research, debate, group discussion, and presentation.

Students will be given multiple opportunities to practice taking a publicly released AP Psychology Exam during the course in preparation of the ultimate goal of passing the exam in May with a score of 3, 4, or 5. Additionally, all course exams will be modeled after the AP Psychology Exam.

The AP Psychology Exam is a comprehensive exam, covering all material and concepts studied during the course.

Assessments/Point System Grading Scale- AP Psychology grades will be weighted as follows: Quarter/Semester Grades: Homework and Learning Logs: 20% Classwork and Participation: 20% Unit Exams, Unit Projects, and Quizzes: 60%

Final Course Grade: Quarter 1 Grade: 24% Quarter 2 Grade (Includes Midterm): 30% Quarter 3 Grade: 13% Quarter 4 Grade: 13% Cumulative Final Exam: 20%

**Remember: When grades are weighted dividing points by total points WILL NOT result in an accurate average** Discussion/Participation Grade Discussion and class participation are an integral part of an AP Psychology course. Each student will earn a participation grade for each quarter. The participation grade may include class discussions, labs/experiments, presentations, classwork, contribution to group activities, etc.

The following are general guidelines for determination of the participation grade: 90%-100%: Always on task; Active participant in the class; Engaged with full ; Outstanding contributions to class discussions showing initiative and thoughtfulness

80%-90%: Usually on task; Active participant in the class; Engaged throughout most of the class; Volunteers relevant and pertinent information frequently

70%-80%: Typically on task; Participates in class; Answers questions when called upon; Occasionally volunteers information

60%-70%: Typically on task; Sometimes distracted during class; Rarely engaged in the class; Rarely contributes to class discussion

1-60%: Usually off task; Not engaged in the class; Does not pay attention; Engages in inappropriate class behaviors (sleeping, completing work for other classes, texting, off task talking, etc.); May refuse to participate when called upon; Does not contribute to class discussions

Assignments/Evaluation AP Psychology students should be prepared for assignments on most nights in order to prepare for class and, ultimately, the AP Psychology Exam.

All written work for the class should be typed or written legibly. Anything writing which is unable to be read will be marked wrong. Written work should be an attempt to communicate one’s thoughts, , or feelings. Sloppy work, one-word answers, and poor spelling/grammar fail in their goal of communicating.

All typed work for the class will be completed on PASD Google Apps for Education accounts unless the instructions indicate otherwise. In addition, typed work must be in an easily read font, with a font size of 12 pt. NO EXCEPTIONS! All typed assignments must have student name, date, teacher name, name of class, and name of assignment in the top right corner. Example:

Sheldon Cooper September 10, 2016 Miss Altland AP Psychology Unit 1: Learning Log 1

Assignments are due at the beginning of class. If you know you are going to be absent on the day an assignment is due please make an effort to hand in the assignment early. If you are absent on a due date the assignment is due upon your return. Exceptions will be made for extended absences. The best way to ensure your assignment is turned in on time for full credit is to communicate with me though email or in person before or after school. I am always willing to discuss the best options for you.

The following is an overview of the type of assignments you will receive throughout the year: 1. Homework- most homework will consist of defining terms, researching, and reading. Written homework assignments will be given a deadline that will be strictly adhered to. Each student will be given a copy of the unit homework assignments at the beginning of each unit. Assignments can also be found in the class Google Drive once it is assigned.

2. Group Class Work- Student will work in groups made of four students and each student will be required to participate, collaborate, and give a class presentation or turn in final work.

3. Class Work- There will be times when students will be required to work independently on an assignment or project.

4. Individual/Group Projects- These assignments may or may not require research or work at home. Grading rubrics will be handed to each student at the time the assignment is given and can be accessed via the class Google Drive.

5. Class Participation- Each student must be an active participant in class discussions and activities.

6. Concept Maps- Concept maps provide a graphic representation of each chapter’s material. Students are expected to come to class with completed concept maps from each night’s reading. These drafts will then be used to facilitate class discussion about the topics to be covered. Students are expected to add to and modify their concept maps to help better gauge of the chapters’ material. Students will use these to create a final draft at the end of each unit that will be submitted for a grade. Good note taking will make studying later much easier!

7. Unit Projects- Each unit will have a project that will come in various forms. Each project will revolve around how the content applies to your life. Unit projects will be a combination of in and out of class work.

8. Hock: Case Study Reflections- Each unit you will be given written case studies to analyze and reflect upon.

9. Taking Sides- Each unit will include a class debate on a topic that is important in Psychology today.

10. Unit Learning Logs- Each unit students will be required to reflect on the topic and how they feel about their understanding and how it connects to their lives.

11. Quizzes will be periodically given on reading assignments and vocabulary. Extensive reading and vocabulary review are paramount to the success of the AP Psychology student and will be consistently stressed. Quizzes will be both announced and unannounced.

12. Unit Exams- At the end of each unit you will take a unit exam consisting of AP-style multiple- questions, and Free Response Questions with many questions take from past AP exams. All tests will be timed to prepare students for the AP Psychology Exam.

13. Cumulative Exams- To help prepare for the AP Exam in May, a cumulative test will be given at the end of the first, second, and third quarters.

14. Final Exam- This exam will be required of all AP Psychology students and will be comprehensive for all material covered during the entire year. This exam is in addition to the AP Psychology Exam and should be used as preparation.

Grades Reports Grade reports are available for students and parents to view on Power School. If you do not know how to access your grades via the Power School system, please make an appointment with your guidance counselor. https://powerschool.pasd.us/public/

It is your responsibility to stay informed about your class average. If you need to discuss your grade report with me, please schedule a time with me before or after school.

Getting Help Psychology can be complicated and confusing! Please don’t be afraid to get help if you do not understand something. The ultimate responsibility to learn Psychology is yours BUT I am always willing and happy to help you in any way I can!

To get help you can: 1. Ask questions before, during, and/or after class. 2. See me after school. Let me know if you would like to stay after for help to make sure I am available to give you my complete attention. I am also available before school by appointment only. 3. Email any time!

Parent Meeting Parents and students are advised that if a student is not earning a passing grade by the issuance of the 1st Quarter progress report, a parent-teacher-student meeting will be scheduled to discuss a strategy for how the student can be successful in this course.

**Parents: If you have any questions that you would like me to address, please email me at [email protected] or leave a message at 717-838-1331 Ext. 2107. I will get back to you at my earliest convenience** Classroom Expectations The most important guidelines in our classroom are: 1. Respect for Yourself 2. Respect for Others 3. Responsibility for ALL of Your Actions

Responsibility is Key to Success-

1. For your safety and education, orderly conduct is a MUST upon entering the classroom, during class, and exiting the classroom. You may not stand at the door at the end of class. Remain at your desk until the teacher dismisses you. 2. Be on time and be prepared with all necessary materials. 3. Be ready to learn. 4. Sit in your assigned seat unless directed to move for groups. 5. Follow ALL directions given by the instructor. 6. Take care of our classroom environment!! 7. Respect other students’ personal space and they will respect yours. This includes Miss Altland’s personal space and items. 8. Maintain a positive attitude and use positive language in the classroom. 9. Follow all school rules while in the classroom. School rules can be located in your Student Handbook. 10. Drinks must be kept to water in a clear bottle. No exceptions! 11. All phones MUST be kept in the provided pockets in the classroom. Each student will be given a number and will use the corresponding section. There will be NO use of phones UNLESS the device is instrumental in the lesson. Miss Altland will direct you to turn on your device if and when it becomes necessary. The first student in the classroom caught on their phone will receive a class warning. ANY student after will receive a teacher detention. 12. Your course textbooks are to be covered at all times. 13. Students are responsible for gathering and completing all missed assignments. 14. Note taking, highlighting, and gathering relevant information during lessons is the individual student’s responsibility. 15. Periodic Grade Checks are the individual student’s responsibility. 16. Turn in all work ON TIME and in the correct location at the time the work is requested. 17. Participate in Class Discussions and Activities! It is very important to stay on-task and be attentive during class. The more you absorb in class, the less you have to study at home. 18. Respect your Teacher, other students and other cultures and lifestyles. 19. Be RAD!! Responsible, Accountable, and Diligent

Consequences Listed consequences may or may not be employed, depending upon the situation. A whole-student approach will be used to address student discipline. This includes parents, guidance counselors, coaches, the social worker, club advisors and teachers.

1. Verbal Warning 2. Conference with Teacher/Possible Parent Contact 3. 30-Minute Teacher Detention/Parent Contact 4. Referral to Administration/Parent Contact

Any serious offense will be immediately referred to the Administration.

Teacher Detention: 30 minutes- the student will be expected to bring an activity and remain both productive and quiet for the entire 30 minutes.

1. All missed detentions will be referred to the administration. 2. Teacher detentions will be assigned at the convenience of Miss Altland. 3. Student will be given a minimum of 24 hours notice when a teacher detention is assigned.

If you think it might get you into trouble…it will!

DON’T DO IT!

Late Work All assignments must be turned in.

The expectation is that everyone will complete all assignments and turn them in on time. A due date is not a suggestion, it is a requirement. “Excuses” will not be accepted.

Make-up Quizzes or Exams following an Excused Absence: each student will have a reasonable number of school days to complete a quiz or exam missed due to an excused absence. In this classroom, a reasonable number of school days is no more than seven. After the 7-day grace period, the respective quiz/exam grade will be zero. Please keep in mind that the grace period in this classroom gives you 6 days over and above what is required by the school administration. If you are absent the day prior to an exam or assignment due, you are NOT excused. You will have advance notice of quizzes and exams; therefore, you will not be at a disadvantage following a one-day absence.

Assignments due on the day you are absent will be due immediately upon your return to school.

In cases of legitimate emergency, the classroom teacher reserves the right to wave all late penalties.

Extra Credit will be given at my discretion to students who truly need an extra credit option only. Students with an 80% or above will not be granted extra credit opportunities. In order to receive extra credit students must have completed all required class assignments and must put forth their best effort in class. Student requesting extra credit assignments must also be willing to put in extra time and effort, even if it means time after school. Late extra credit assignments will not be accepted. No exceptions! If a student has any 0% entries in the grade book, he/she shall not be eligible for extra credit opportunities.

If you fail to turn in an assignment or a project on the required due date, you MAY be able to turn the assignment in for partial credit.

The late policy for this classroom is as follows: 1. Late assignments will receive a 10% deduction. 2. Late assignments will be accepted until one week prior to the end of each marking period. After this date, all grades for missing assignments will be 0% and be reported as such in the final MP grade. 3. Please remember- work that is submitted late will not constitute a grading emergency and will be graded after any current assignments. Do not expect that your late assignment will be my first priority.

Plagiarism and Academic Dishonesty Students are expected to abide by ethical standards in preparing and presenting material which demonstrates their level of knowledge and which is used to determine grades. Such standards are founded on the basic concepts of honesty and integrity.

Attendance Students should understand that regular attendance is absolutely critical to success in the classroom. Students who miss class frequently for any (excused or unexcused) may find it difficult to keep up with the work they have missed. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to collect/make-up the assignments you missed.

Concerns If at any time you have a problem with class policies, expectations, assignments, projects, consequences, etc., please schedule a time to speak with me. Class time is important for the learning of the entire group and not an appropriate time to address such issues.

If you choose to address concerns via email, please be courteous and respectful. Your email interactions with your teacher should be as respectful as your in-person .

I hope you find value in the content and feel appropriately challenged and encouraged by what you learn. We are in this together, so please feel free to communicate with me any needs, concerns, or celebrations you may want to share. I am here for you! I am sincerely excited about the opportunity to work with you throughout this course.

Miss Altland