Psychology
Class One
Days 1, 3, 4
Teacher: Mr. Framo
E-mail: jframo@lrhsd.org
Course Website: www.jframo.com
Office Hours: Available by appointment on Day 3
Course Purpose
Understanding psychology is useful in so many ways beyond becoming a psychologist. My hope is
that by completing this course you will be able to apply what you have learned throughout your
life. Becoming a psychologist or majoring in psychology is not required to be a student of
psychology, but having an innate desire to understand yourself and others is hugely beneficial.
Psychology is defined as the scientific study of the mind and behavior. In a high school psychology
course, students are introduced to the scientific method and the core ideas and theories of
psychology. As a result, students gain an understanding of the complexities and diversity of human
thought and behavior. This course will allow students to develop practical skills while engaging
with the dynamic and interesting field of psychology.
Topics and Learning Outcomes
Units within Psychology Course:
Perspectives in Psychological Science
Research Methods
Biological Bases of Behavior
States of Consciousness
Human Development
Learning and Memory
Personality
Psychological Disorders
Motivation and Emotion
Treatment of Psychological Disorders
Stress and Health
Social Psychology
As a result of taking this course, you will be able to…
1. Identify the major developments in the history of psychology and the major areas in
Psychology today.
2. Define and list the major types of research in psychology and evaluate current
psychological research.
3. Compare various altered states of consciousness including sleep, dreams, meditation,
hypnosis, and drugs.
4. Describe the basic anatomy & physiology, the communication processes, and organization
of the human nervous system.
5. Define and describe the major elements presented in classical, operant conditioning, and
social learning, identifying the major processes involved each system.
6. Describe the major concepts within the psychoanalytical, humanistic, behavioral, biological,
and trait theories of personality.
7. Compare and contrast major classifications of psychological disorders as well as methods
used to treat psychological disorders.
8. Identify the role of various social psychology concepts in human behavior.
Course Methods
Psychology is a dynamic field, and my goal is to use a variety of methods that will help you
understand the material as well as enjoy the time we have together. Our class time will consist of
lecture, discussion, interactive/group assignments, as well as presentations. It is essential that
readings and assignments be completed by the due date.
Homework, for this course, is defined as any work required to complete assignments or to master
course material. Using this definition, you always have homework. In addition to completing
required assignments, you need to master the material we cover in class and in the text. Just
reading the text and being in class does not guarantee that you understand the material. It is your
responsibility to master this material, but you can see me for assistance at any time.
Course Technology
For this course, you will be required to utilize turnitin.com and quia.com. If you have never used
either of these, you must create a username for each. If you have already registered, you will need to
add this course to your account.
Quia.com – when signing up for quia.com use the following class information – see attachment:
Class Code: HEAM893
Turnitin.com – when signing up for turnitin.com use the following class information:
Class ID: 8534395
Enrollment Password: password
Online Textbook – the text is used as a resource for you, but is rarely used in class.
* Must use Internet Explorer or Safari for online textbook to work
psychology.glencoe.com – at the top of the website locate: For online book edition click here
username: psych03
password: wr9drecrec
The following technology is optional:
Remind.com – I will send text reminders and important announcements – see attachment
Twitter – I tweet psychology and class related information, follow @framopsychclass
Socrative.com – you do not need to register ahead of time to use socrative.com, but you may wish
to download the app on your phone to make it easier for you to participate. If you are unable to
download the free app, I will have iPad’s available in class when I plan to use the site.
Responsible Technology Use:
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Cell phones are only to be used for academic purposes – if you are unsure, just ask. It is
disrespectful to your classmates and your teacher when using your phone to text, email,
play games, etc. while the class is in session. However, my goal is for you to monitor your
OWN behavior so that I may focus on helping students learn.
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Headphones may only be worn during class when given permission – if the class is working
independently on assignments I may allow you to listen to music. Please ask before using
your headphones or playing your own music.
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If you are asked to put your technology away, please do so without questioning me.
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iPad and computers in the lab should be used for academic purposes only; do not do
anything to damage the equipment or iPad. You are responsible for any damage that
results from misuse as outlined in the user agreement.
Course Expectations
The purpose of this agreement is to ensure that students and instructors can engage in learning,
teaching, and understanding in an appropriate educational atmosphere. Please carefully read the
following student and instructor responsibilities and keep this information with your class
materials.
Student Expectations/Responsibilities:
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Communicate with me about concerns or problems in a timely fashion. Issues may
come up at any time during the year; I can provide many possible solutions, but only if I
know about your concerns/issues.
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Collaborative group work is an essential part of learning. When working in groups it is
your responsibility to participate fully and do your share of task.
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Come to class prepared with materials for learning. You may choose to take notes in a
notebook, on a tablet, three-ring binder – whatever works for you. I recommend a
three-ring binder because I often hand out assignments and notes that may be hole
punched.
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Have an open mind to new ideas that may challenge your current way of thinking. Be
respectful of the opinions of others and share your own thoughts as much as possible.
We learn from each other and your viewpoint matters.
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Developing skills is just as important as learning content material. Not ALL learning is
based on a grade; some assessments will be used as a tool for learning and not graded.
It is still essential that these assignments be completed in a timely manner. The process
is just as important as the outcome.
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If you are absent, it is YOUR responsibility to make an appointment with me to review
the missed work. I recommend checking with me to make sure you have everything you
need. In most cases, you will only have as many days as you were absent to complete
assignments. If you are absent for an extended period of time I suggest emailing me
directly.
Instructor Expectations/Responsibilities:
The following points are for me as your teacher. In order to make this an enjoyable and
productive class I will hold myself accountable to the following:
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Treat students with respect and civility.
Be prepared for all classes.
Conduct class with enthusiasm.
Provide a learning environment that is diverse and enriching.
Grade assignments and tests objectively; return assignments in a timely fashion.
Be available to assist students in their effort to succeed in this course.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I earn an “A”? - Engage in active learning. Students who find a way to make the material
meaningful often get higher grades. Use the resources provided and focus on learning the
material- not memorizing for the test.
I have an example to share in our class discussion but I’m not sure if it is too personal? - If you
have doubts about what you would like to share then you may want to hold off or share it with me
after class and we can decide together. Examples are great in that they illuminate topics and bring
the material in the real world. The general rule of thumb is to share from your personal
experience when it directly connects to the topic of discussion and can enrich the class dialogue. If
you choose to share, please do not use actual names.
How should I study for the tests and quizzes? - The best way to study for tests and quizzes are to
read the chapter, take notes in your own words, study for the practice quizzes, and pay attention
in class.
Do I have to read the entire chapter? What if I get bored? - In the case of a long chapter, it may
be expected that your mind will wander. If you find this to be the case, break the reading up into
smaller units. The goal is to read for COMPREHENSION, not to just get through the chapter with no
real understanding of what you just read.
I started off on the “wrong foot,” can I catch up? - If you stumble at the start of the year or new
marking period, the key is to talk with me about it early. Don’t wait until the middle of the
semester. Communication is key!
Helpful Hints:
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Be a student starting with the first day of class.
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Don't try to be a human tape recorder! Rather than attempting to write down every word I
say, try to write down the important information in your own words (as much as you can).
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Ask a LOT of questions. It is not possible to ask stupid questions in this class. If you are
confused about something, then you can bet that a number of other people in the class are
also confused; the more questions asked, the better the class will be.
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Try to find at least one or two students in class with whom you can study
Classroom Environment:
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Avoid private conversations and calling out while others are speaking – raise your hand
appropriately if you have something to share with the class; I welcome your
contribution to the class.
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This is NOT a study hall – NO texting, sleeping, or doing other course work – if this
becomes an issue I will have to implement appropriate discipline according to the school
handbook.
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Remain actively engaged during the entire 57 minutes we have together – life moves
too fast to be rushing out the door, slow down and enjoy the time here.
Genesis Gradebook:
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If you are absent when an assignment is due it will be entered as a “0” until it is
complete
If you fail to complete a missed assignment within the allowed time it will remain “0”
If an assignment has no grade next to it, I have not yet graded the assignment
Types of Assessment:
 Traditional objective tests and quizzes
 Written essay responses, both in class and take-home
 Alternative assessment projects and assignments
 Collaborative group assignments
 Homework assignments, including readings or short written assignments
Mr. Framo has reviewed the syllabus and expectations for this course. I understand what is
expected of me, and if I did not understand I was given an opportunity to ask for
clarification. I will make every effort to adhere to the expectations Mr. Framo has
established for this course.
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Signature
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Date