Mr. Lowman
AP Psychology
2014 - 2015
Course Summary and Class Procedures
This is a basic outline of the AP Psychology course syllabus and other pertinent
information for this year. It would be a good idea if both you and your parents/guardians
would read this so that everybody knows what is, and what will be happening.
Course Description
The goal of the high school social studies program is to develop citizens who will be able
to participate in a culturally diverse, democratic, global society. The social studies
program provides an integrated study of history, geography, civics, economics, and
related social studies disciplines. The program emphasizes active learning strategies,
research and inquiry skills, as well as critical thinking, reading, and writing.
The Advanced Placement Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the
systematic and scientific study of behavior and mental processes of human beings and other
animals. The course content reflects a rigorous college introductory course covering a broad
range of topics in psychology as well as specific methods used by psychologists in their
science and practice. Students will be involved in original research using naturalistic
observations, experimentation, interview, or survey by random sampling. The course is
designed to give students analytical and interpretive skills with college level journal reading.
Students will be prepared for and expected to participate in the Advanced Placement
Psychology exam.
Resources
Psychology: The Adaptive Mind (4th edition)
James S. Nairne.
Thomson Wadsworth, 2006.
Accompanying ancillary materials
Supplemental reading and media resources
Web based resources
Class Expectations – I expect you to …
1. Have respect and responsibility for yourself, and others, at all times.
2. Bring all appropriate materials to class (chromebook, paper, pen/pencil, text, etc.).
3. Complete reading assignments for readiness in class discussions/activities.
4. Complete and submit assignments on time.
5. Follow all rules in the student handbook.
Assignment Weighted Values
Participation will account for 10% of your quarter grade.
Classwork / Homework will account for 15% of your quarter grade.
Quizzes will account for 25% of your quarter grade.
Tests will account for 25% of your quarter grade.
Projects will account for 25% of your quarter grade.
Missing/Late Work
Any work missed because of an unexcused absence may not be made up. Any work
missed because of an excused absence may be made up by appointment only. It is the
responsibility of the student to arrange for makeup work. Missed work should not be
made up during the class period. All assignments must be handed in on time. Late
assignments will be accepted for half credit until the completion of the chapter/unit test.
Conclusion/Contact Information
This class will be exciting, challenging, and sometimes difficult. Consequently, you may
find that you need some extra help at some time during the school year. You will need to
let me know and I will find a way to help you. If you are confused about a reading,
writing, or special assignment, please make sure to talk with me about it. I do not ever
want you to feel frustrated or confused. I am available for you before school, after
school, and outside of school. My home phone number is: (215) 554-3340. My email
address is: alowman@umtsd.org. If you have questions or a problem, please call or
email me (parents too). My goal is to make this class a successful learning experience for
all involved and to be the best educator I can be. I will do all in my power to help you...
but you must do your part, too. If you do your work, I guarantee that, together, we will
be successful. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Aaron Lowman