Introduction to Psychology
BOLINE
Winter 2010
COURSE OVERVIEW
This is an introduction to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes.
We will explore and analyze human behavior and individual psychological
differences through the application of concepts and research methods.
ESSENTIAL STANDARDS
1. Distinguish and apply the basic principles of the psychological perspectives
to the study of psychology.
2. Understand and apply psychological methods for inquiry to the study of
psychology including the ethical issues in the field.
3. Describe the influences of biological and environmental factors on human
development and personality.
4. Describe the continuum of states of consciousness and characteristics
associated with various stages.
5. Describe models and theories that address the ways people learn and acquire
knowledge.
6. Define and identify characteristics of abnormal behavior and various models
of psychological therapies.
COURSE GRADING POLICY
Coursework for this class will be scored and calculated using the following
breakdown:
Tests/Quizzes: 50%, Daily Work/Homework: 30%, Projects: 20%
Grading Scale:
A 92% and above
D 62%- 71%
B 82%-91%
F Below 62%
C 72’s-81%
Percentages will be rounded up when computing grades
Extra Credit:
There is no extra credit in this course. However, bonus points will be available
at the instructor's discretion
COURSE OUTLINE: Students are expected to read textbook and take notes pertaining to each unit.
Unit One- Approaches to Psychology (Experiment Project)

Chapter 1 (pages 2-25) The Field of Psychology

Chapter 2 (pages 26-51) Methods of Psychology
Unit Two- Brain, Body, and Awareness

Brain Introduction (handout materials)

Chapter 5 (pages 122-157) Motivation and Emotion

Chapter 6 (pages 158-187) Consciousness
Unit Three- Learning and Memory

Chapter 7 (pages 190-221) Principles of Learning

Chapter 8 (pages 222-253) Information Process and Memory
Unit Four- Intelligence and Personality

Chapter 9 (pages 254-283) Intelligence and Creativity

Chapter 14 (pages 404-433) Theories of Personality
Unit Five - Psychological Disorders (Research Project)

Chapter 17 (pages 502-537) Mental Disorders
BOLINE’S CLASSROOM POLICIES
Assessment:
Mastery of course content will be both formative (assessment for learning) and
summative (assessment of learning).
Daily work:
Work is to be turned in at the beginning of the hour on the date it is due. Absences
and homework will be handled according to MGSH school policies. Students must do
projects as mandatory assignments for course.
 Late work (daily work) results in a 50% reduction in points.
 Late work may be turned in until summative assessment is taken.
Participation:
Students are expected get to class on time (in the classroom when the bell rings), ontask with classroom activities, as well as active participants in the classroom. Students
may be called upon to explain concepts discussed in the readings. Attentive
classroom behavior is expected at all times. Failure to follow these policies may result
in disciplinary action.
 Students will be expected to take notes on classroom lectures