Psychology 2011-2012 Course Syllabus & Objectives
Debra Baker (email) debra.baker@cherokee.k12.ga.us
Course Description: Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental
processes that provides tools to help us gain insight into our own behavior, as well as
our relationships with others. As a social science, Psychology looks for biological
explanations for human behavior. Using the scientific method helps students think
critically and objectively when applying psychological principles to everyday issues,
people and problems.
Objectives followed by Georgia State Standards
Students Will:
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Explain selected historical and contemporary perspectives and practices of
psychologists. SSPFR1
Explain the research methods and the type of statistics used in the field of
psychology. SSPFR2
Explain the development, structure, and function of biological systems and their
role in behavior, cognition, and emotion. SSPBF1
Compare different states of consciousness. SSPBF2
Discuss the components of stress. SSPBF3
Identify the characteristics of and major approaches to learning. SSPBC1
Describe behavioral, social, and cognitive changes from the prenatal period
throughout the life span. SSPBC3
Analyze concepts related to the measurement and nature of intelligence.
SSPVB1
Evaluate assessment tools and theories in personality. SSPVB2
Identify abnormal behavior and treatment. SSPVB3
Analyze the impact of the social environment on behaviors and attitudes.
SSPSP1
Student Requirements:
 1” 3 ring binder; 1 spiral notebook to keep in class for journals, Writing to Win,
and various in-class writing assignments. Flash drive for integration of
technology.
 All assignments must be completed in blue or black ink. No neon colors will be
accepted. Always remember to bring pens/pencils to class.
 Participate in all class discussions.
 Utilize media center resources, technology and other references to complete
assignments.
 Please note that the bar code on textbooks that have been issued to you may not
be defaced in any manner or removed from the textbook. If you deface the bar
code or remove it from the textbook, you will be charged the cost of replacing the
book, as we will be unable to verify that the textbook was issued to you.
Text
 Understanding Psychology (Glencoe, McGraw-Hill )
Websites
 psychology.glencoe.com - companion website to textbook.
 apa.org – psychology topics, information about the American Psychological
Society, research, careers, etc.
 alleydog.com – specifically for psychology students; definitions, articles, etc.
 psychwww.com (and no, the www is not in the wrong place) – scholarly
resources, APA documentation style guide, lots of information.
 psychology.org – many web links and resources.
 Psychcentral.com
 Mentalhealth.com
 Mentalhelp.net
 Medicinenet.com
 Medicalnewstoday.com
 Medtv.com
 Nami.org
Grading Policy and Test Days:
Test days for Social Studies will be Monday and Wednesday
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Major tests and Projects – 40%
Quizzes, Class/Homework, Journals, WTW – 35%
Mid-Term – 10%
Final Exam – 15%
Homework Policy:
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Homework will not always be assigned, but when it is, students are expected
to treat those assignments with the same diligence required during class.
Homework will reinforce principles, skills, concepts, and information taught in
the classroom and stimulate creative, logical, and critical thought.
Attendance and make up work policy:
Any student who misses 7 or more days of this course, excused or unexcused
absences, will not receive credit for this course. All work missed due to an absence
must be made up. Make-up work for unexcused absences will not earn full credit; it
may only count up to 70%. The responsibility for arranging to complete make-up work is
to be assumed by the student and parent in conjunction with the teacher. Make-up
work is to be completed within the time specified by the teacher. The time is not to
exceed ten (10) days. If the make-up work is not completed within the allotted time, the
student is to receive a zero for the work not made-up. The 10 day rule does not apply
to long standing/long range assignments such as term papers, research papers, longrange projects, etc. In these cases, the assignments/projects must be turned in on or
before the due date or the assignments will not be accepted. The student will receive a
zero for the assignment. Students and their parents assume responsibility for delivering
or emailing assignment/project by 3:30 on the due date.
 A student who completes make-up work because he/she was on OSS is to
receive only 70% of the grade for the assignment, test, etc. No OSS make-up
work will receive a grade higher than 70.
Class Rules and Procedures:
 Take care of personal needs before the tardy bell rings.
 Be prompt and prepared for class.
 Be courteous. Please do not talk while I am speaking, and never be
disrespectful of your peers or me.
 Do NOT line up at the door before the bell rings. Keep your seat until class is
dismissed.
 IMPORTANT! Plagiarism will not be tolerated and will result in a zero for the
assignment.
Course Syllabus Signature Page
I have read the course syllabus including rules and requirements. I understand that my
cooperation will help create an enjoyable atmosphere for learning.
Student
Signature____________________________________________Date______________
Parent
Signature____________________________________________Date______________
Optional: Parent email address (this is the easiest way for me to contact you).
______________________________________________________________________
Phone#_______________________________________________________________