2015-2016

Psychology Course Syllabus

Teacher: DeSilva Room: 107
Email: sdesilva@mpswardogs.com
Phone: 918-542-4421, Ext. 107
Course Description
This course focuses on psychological science, biological bases of
behavior, life-span development, social psychology, memory,
motivation and emotion, and treatment of psychological disorders.
Objectives
Students will demonstrate the ability to:
Identify major contributors to the psychology field.
Explain basic methods of psychological research.
Identify major stages of development.
State, label, and describe basic parts of the human brain.
Understand the difference between nature and nurture.
Define intelligence and how it is tested.
Explain different perspectives on personality.
Summarize the major causes, symptoms, treatment, and
prognoses of various psychological disorders.
Materials
Materials required every day:
Assigned text book
Pencil or pen
Notebook paper
1 or 1 binder with 5 dividers (Bell Work, Notes, Handouts,
Homework, Tests)
Textbook
A textbook will be assigned to every student at the beginning of
the school year. It is the students responsibility to keep track of his or
her book throughout the school year. The same book should be
returned at the end of the school year.
Grading Policy
Grades will come from a combination of in-class work,
homework, tests/quizzes, and participation. Classwork and homework
must be turned in on the assigned due date in order to receive full
credit. 20% will be deducted from an assignment for the first day it is
late. Another 20% will be deducted the assignment for the second day
it is late. After that, the highest grade a completed assignment can

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receive is 60%. Late work will not be accepted after each quarter ends
(March 10 and May 18).
If the student is absent from class, it is his or her responsibility to
approach the teacher about make up work. This should be done
before/after school/through email never during class.
If a student demonstrates academic dishonesty, a zero will be
given for the assignment no exceptions.
Rules

and Expectations
Arrive on time.
Bring all needed materials and be organized.
Respect all ideas given by classmates during discussions.
Pick up after yourself (no food or drinks allowed in class).
One person may leave the room at a time.
Approach assignments with a positive attitude.
Try your best.

A mature attitude and approach to this course is essential. Any student

not able to handle this prerequisite should reconsider taking this class.
According to the MHS handbook, cell phones and wireless devices "are
not to be out or in use during classroom time (page 41). If phones are
in use during class, it is an interruption the students learning
experience. If a student is seen using his or her cell phone, it will be
confiscated and sent to the office.

Student Signature:
_____________________________________________________ Date:
______________
Parent/Guardian Signature: __________________________________________
Date: ______________

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Phone: _________________________________
Email: __________________________________