Psychology ∙ Ms. Wiley ∙ Course Syllabus, D___
Name:
Important Teacher Information:
Ms. Wiley’s email address – kwiley@cbsd.org
Room D218
See Ms. Wiley’s Schoolwires site for pertinent course information and documents
[Block 3: Mrs. DeStefano will also be in the classroom to provide assistance]
Course Description:
This nine-week course is designed to introduce students to psychology, which is the
study of behavior and mental processes. The word psychology comes from the Greek
word psyche, meaning “mind” or “soul,” and the Latin word logia, meaning “study of.”
We study psychology in response to a fundamental curiosity about ourselves and our
world. To learn to think like psychologists and appreciate their findings and goals, the
course will provide an overview of the following: history, approaches, and research
methods involved in psychology; learning, cognition, and memory; consciousness;
motivation and emotion; personality; intelligence, psychological disorders; and social
psychology.
As psychologist David Myers explains, to think like a psychologist one must “restrain
intuition with critical thinking, judgmentalism with compassion, and illusion with understanding.” Whether you choose to pursue a
career in psychology or in some entirely different field, the habits of mind discussed in the class will be of great value, as they can
enrich your life and your understanding of others. In short, the concepts we will study in this class shape our very existence, and are
therefore applicable to each and every one of you, despite your differences.
This course is not one in which you will play a passive role. Instead, you are expected to take an active part in your learning and that
of the class as well. Discussion and demonstrations will dominate over lectures so that we can think and learn as real psychologists
do—by interacting, observing, analyzing, deliberating, and testing hypotheses.
Course Expectations and Goals:
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Read and analyze psychological research/commentary
Form and express thoughtful opinions and arguments
Engage in lively discussion daily
Hypothesize the criteria for ethical research and experimentation
Apply psychological methodology and mindset to current events and personal life
Course Materials:
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In-class textbook: Psychology: Principles in Practice (Spencer A. Rathus)
Pencils, pens, highlighters
One labeled folder solely for Psychology use (include full name and course title)
Flash/USB drive for research/project purposes
Grading Breakdown:
Marking Period—70% Summative / 30% Formative
 Summative Assessments—70% of final grade
Projects/Presentations
Participation (to be evaluated every three weeks)
One test (to be administered at end of course)
 Formative Assessments—30% of final grade
Bi-weekly quizzes (combination of multiple-choice and short-answer)
Psychology folder (to be evaluated in week four and week nine)
Class Rules:
1) Arrive to class on time. All students are to be quiet and in their seats with class materials ready when the bell rings. The bell is
the signal to begin class, not a signal to come to class. Similarly, the bell is the signal to end class; therefore, packing up early will
not be tolerated (unless Ms. Wiley directs you to).
2) Arrive to class ready to learn. This entails being prepared with the necessary materials and being awake, engaged and
participatory.
3) Cooperate with teacher and peers in a mature and respectful manner at all times. The classroom environment is to be friendly
and inviting at all times. Please note that the nature of this course demands that students and teacher explore contentious and
sensitive topics. While debate is encouraged, it must be done respectfully.
4) Absences – Regular attendance is expected from all students. Under circumstances where regular attendance is interrupted,
please follow the guidelines below:
- For extended planned absences please let Ms. Wiley know as far in advance as possible so that she may provide the
student with the necessary materials.
- For illnesses, please email Ms. Wiley at your earliest convenience.
- For an unplanned day absence, students should learn what they missed from a classmate or Ms. Wiley before school
starts.
5) Restroom – When possible, students should try to use the restroom between classes or before lunch. If necessary, and at
appropriate times during the lesson, students may ask permission to use the restroom. Students must sign out legibly, with their
full name, and sign in when they return.
6) Food & Drink – Drinks are permitted in the classroom so long as students dispose of their bottles appropriately and thoroughly
clean any spill that they are responsible for. Eating is not permitted in the classroom unless the teacher announces a class party
or event. Please advise Ms. Wiley of any food allergy as soon as possible.
7) Electronic Devices – Electronic devices (cell phones, iPods, etc.) are not permitted in class.
Student/Parent Receipt:
My child and I have read and reviewed the preceding course syllabus and fully understand the guidelines, procedures,
and expectations for classroom behavior, conduct, and performance.
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Student Name
Student Signature
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Parent/Guardian Name
Parent/Guardian Signature