PAP/AP Psychology
Recommended Grade Level: 11-12
Semester 1 gives PAP credit, Semester 2 gives AP credit Course Description: Advanced Placement Psychology compromises topics most students find inherently interesting. The mission of AP Psychology is to introduce students to the systematic study of human behavior and mental processes. The science of psychology emphasizes that a scientific attitude and approach fosters more critical thinking about human behavior. Whether we are investigating the intricacies of interpersonal attraction or exploring the complexities of the brain, psychology is in play. AP Psychology will cover major content areas such as Research Methods, Sensation and Perception, Learning, Cognition, Motivation and Emotion, Developmental Psychology, Personality, Abnormal Psychology, and Psychological Disorders. This course is designed to provide students with an experience equivalent to a college student taking an Introduction to Psychology course. Topics Covered: History and Approaches (2-4%) Developmental Psychology (7-9%) Biological Bases of Behavior (8-10%) Learning (7-9%) Cognition (8-10%) Sensation and Perception (6-8%) Altered States (2-4%) Testing (5-7%) Personality (5-7%) Methods (8-10%) Motivation and Emotion (6-8%) Abnormal Psychology (7-9%) Psychological Disorders (5-7%) Social Psychology (8-10%) Major Assignments: Creation of an AP Psychology Study Guide Outside Requirements: AP Barron's Study Guide "Outliers" Malcolm Gladwell |