AP Psychology
Syllabus: Mr. Winnick
Phoenixville Area High School
Purpose:
"The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific
study of behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are
exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the
major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists
use in their science and practice." (- AP Guide)
Course Objectives:
1. Develop an understanding of the major core concepts and theories of psychology.
2. Understand the basic types of psychological research.
3. Develop critical thinking skills.
4. Exercise reading, writing, and discussion skills.
5. Learn the ethical standards governing the work of psychologists.
6. Prepare to do acceptable work on the Advanced Placement Psychology Test.
Textbook:
Zimbardo, Phillip G. et al, Psychology AP Edition. Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 2007.
Teacher Resources:
Gruber, Craig. Instructor’s Manual for Zimbardo’s AP Psychology. Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 2007.
Houck, Roger R. Forty Studies that Changed Psychology: Explorations into the History of Psychological
Research, 4th ed. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Prentice Hall, 2002.
Student Expectations:
Students are expected to complete all required readings (textbook and articles) before coming to class.
They should also be ready and willing to participate in class discussions – participation is key to
learning the material being covered. Students are also required to complete any assignments and
take quality notes during class.
Grading:
1. Summative
2. Formative
(tests / projects)
(quizzes / projects)
 spiraling assessments
3. Homework (“checks”) --- always be prepared
-
50%
30%
-
20%
Midterm & Final Exams
** While grades are important, it is what you learn that is most important!!
Advanced Placement:
The Advanced Placement program corresponds with the current curricula covered at the
undergraduate level. Consequently, all activities, discussions, readings, written work, etc…will
be graded with the expectations of a college level course. All students taking this course are
encouraged to take the AP Psychology Exam in the spring. Demonstrating a certain level of
proficiency on the exam will earn college level credit. Taking the national exam is at worst an
effective form of practice for standardized testing. However, the results from the National
Exam will have no bearing on the grade received in this course.
Classroom Guidelines:
 Prepared for class
 Absent - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to check the work missed…

Assessments will be made up (different exam) the FIRST day back to school, UNLESS
your absence was an extended one --- must arrange to make up your work.
It is student’s responsibility to bring makeup work to the attention of the instructor.
 Always be RESPECTFUL and COURTEOUS!!!
 In class ready to begin when the bell rings --- must have permission to leave class.
***Do NOT pack up early!
 SET GOALS and MAINTAIN HIGH EXPECTATIONS
Students please take the time to look over the Course Requirement description at home and ask any questions
about any point you need further help understanding. I am here to help and look forward to having you
in my class for the school year. Please sign your name in the space provided.
Parents after reading the Course Requirement description above, please sign and detach this form below and
have your child return it to the subject teacher. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the
Office at 484-927-5100.
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