Tanque Verde High School
Course Description and Expectations
Intro to Psychology 2015-2016
Instructor: Mr. Jeremiah Johnson
Telephone: 520-760-0801 ext. 1603
Email: jjohnson@tanq.org
The best way to contact Mr. Johnson is by email. The most effective way to set up a phone conversation or a meeting
would be to email Mr. Johnson directly.
Course Description:
This course will serve as a comprehensive introduction to psychology that will guide students through all the major
theories and concepts they need to progress through this subject. We will look at case studies so students can gain insight
into real life situations and how to apply their knowledge with practical methods. This course will also provide some very
effective learning tools so that students can build on their knowledge and comprehension.
Course Expectations and Policies:
A variety of teaching techniques will be employed in this class. It is the instructor’s belief that students learn in different
ways, thus by teaching using a variety of techniques, the instructor can better accommodate students’ different learning
styles. In addition the use of a variety of techniques increases the students’ interest level in the course. In turn, students
will be expected to take an active role in the learning process by participating in class projects. These may include, but are
not limited to; simulations, plays, role-playing, presentations, group projects, discussion, and audiovisual materials. The
curriculum will also focus on various writing techniques, note taking, and focusing on accountable talk.
Please note that all rules of the Tanque Verde High School Student Handbook will be enforced
* Cell phones might be used in class for instructional purposes at some point during the course. However, they are to
remain out of sight and turned off, unless students are instructed to have them out.
Textbooks:
● Introduction to Psychology, Gateway to Mind and Behavior 13th Edition, Coon and Mitterer
● Criminal Psychology Bull,Cooke,Hatcher, Woodhams, Bilby and Grant
● Supplemental readings and handouts will also be incorporated into the class
Supplies:
● Students need one 70 page college ruled spiral notebook
● Paper and writing utensils
● A folder, or designated area, to keep all homework papers, returned assignments, readings, etc. separate from
other class’s materials
Grading Policy:
All assignments will be graded on a total point system, with larger assignments and tests being worth more points than
smaller assignments and quizzes. There will be a final exam at the end of each semester. Work that is not handed in when
due will be considered late. Late work will be accepted up to one week from the original due date, and the assignment will
receive half credit. Projects or larger assignments that are turned in late will receive a deduction based on the number of
days since the original due date.
If you are absent and miss a test, quiz, or other assessment administered in class, please see the teacher upon your return
to schedule a time for making up the missed work. It is your responsibility to find out what you missed and make a plan
for make ups. Also if you were absent the day an assignment was due, you are expected to turn in that assignment the day
you return. Students that miss multiple days must coordinate with the teacher to arrange make up work. If you are absent,
you may always contact the teacher by email or check the class website to find out what you need to know.
Student Work Includes: (additional information will follow)
● Interactive Notebook
● Bell Work
● Daily Homework / Readings / Formative Assessments
● Unit Projects or Summative Exams
● Additional Components Include:
o Process (Notes, Drills, Short Writing, Daily Assignments, Reading, Activities)
o Product (Writing Assignments, Presentations, Exams, Projects)
The Year at a Glance
This list may be subject to change
UNIT
Semester 1
TOPIC
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
Unit 9
Unit 10
Unit 11
Intro to Psychology
Brain and Behavior
Human Development
Sensation and Perception
States of Consciousness
Conditioning and Learning
Memory
Cognition, Language, and Creativity
Intelligence
Motivation and Emotion
Sex, Gender, and Sexuality
Unit 12
Unit 14
Unit 15
Unit 16
Unit 17
Unti 18
Personality
Psychological Disorders
Criminal Psychology
Offender Profiling
Policing, Interviewing Suspects and Witnesses
Detecting Deception, Eye Witness Testimony, Punishment and
offenders
This section needs to be returned to Mr. Johnson by
Monday August 10th, 2015
Parents please sign below to indicate that you have looked over this syllabus with
your student and understand what is expected of them. Feel inclined to provide
contact information so that I can best communicate with you.
Thank you!
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