AP Psychology

  • Course Description:

    The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. (Advanced Placement Course Description Book)

    This is a fascinating class that will give you the opportunity to understand why humans think, feel, and behave as we do. It is, however, also a rigorous course, as is the case with all college-level AP courses. As a result, you will be required to complete reading and writing assignments outside of class and take notes in class on lectures and discussions. You are expected to come to class ready to discuss the assigned reading each day. Much of our class time will be in a format that allows for ample discussion and opportunities for you to ask questions. Failure to complete independent assignments or participate in discussions, and poor note taking will have a negative impact on your ability to be successful in the course. This AP course is demanding and you can expect exams in traditional AP format, quizzes, in-class FRQs, projects, and presentations.

     

    Course Objectives

    Students will be able to:

    • Examine common research methods used to study psychology and the ethics involved.

    • Consider different personality theories and their explanations of personality development.

    • Investigate human development from infancy through adulthood.

    • Analyze the workings of the mind and body including the brain, sleep and dreams, sensation and perception.

    • Research to understand the power of learning and how it is achieved including conditioning, memory, language, motivation, and emotion.

    • Examine major psychological disorders and mental breakdown as well as treatment options.

    • Explore social psychology including group dynamics and obedience.

    • Develop critical thinking skills and do acceptable work on the AP Psychology Exam.

     

    Units of Study

    Unit 1: Scientific Foundations of Psychology

    Unit 2: Biological Bases of Behavior

    Unit 3: Sensation and Perception 

    Unit 4: Learning

    Unit 5: Cognitive Psychology

    Unit 6: Developmental Psychology

    Unit 7: Motivation, Emotion, and Personality

    Unit 8: Clinical Psychology

    Unit 9: Social Psychology
Last Modified on October 9, 2023