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dperry-Psychology

Weekly outline

  • General

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    Your Online Psychology Home
    Welcome everyone! From now on, this is where you can come to get anything you need related to Psychology. If you miss a class and need to know what needs to be made up, refer to the course content section to see what we are working on. Listed here will be all the activities we will engage in each week, from journals to lectures to packets and project instructions. There will also be a continuous listing of extra credit opportunities. This is also a good place to go if you want to work a little bit ahead or know that you will be missing school on particular days.

  • 10 August - 16 August

    Welcome back to school, and welcome to Psychology. This is a great subject to teach and I'm sure all of you will find something throughout the course that will be personally meaningful.

    By now, we've gotten to know each other a bit, and you should be aware of the ins and outs of the class. You should also have received a copy of the course outline which needs to be signed and returned ASAP.

    This site can be a very helpful resource throughout the year - a place to go to get assignments, information, and printable downloads of packets and lecture outlines. I will be updating at least once a week, and hope you visit often.

    Since school is starting a little different this year with distance-learning taking place, most of your attention will be on Google Classroom. However, if you prefer to do things "old school." You can access all the assignments here as well. There just isn't a digital component that allows you interact with the document. Here, you simply do all your work in a physical format and send it to me as an attachment via email. By the way, you should be able to pick up a notebook for this class at school when you go to get your textbook.

    All assignments for the first week are designed to help me get to know you. You can find them all below.

    P


  • 17 August - 23 August

    We're one week in now, and things are starting to hum. Though the classes are not quite aligned right now, they're close enough.

    This week, we begin to take a look at the basics of Psychology. What it is? Who has figured predominantly in its history? (The where and the when are also part of its history.) How has the study of it been approached? 

    Activities for the week include:

    1) Survey/Journal - First, mark which approach is best suited to you. Then, explain why. This will be done using Classroom interactive docs.

    2) Taking notes - "What is Psychology?: An Introduction" Either write out the notes by hand, or fill in the interactive doc on Google Classroom. The lecture can be found below. It is also linked to the assignment on Classroom.

    3) Examining the history of Psychology. This will be done by completing the PsychSim activity "Psychology's Timeline." If you miss class, you can complete the activity online. The links are provided below - the first to open and print out the worksheet, and the second to do the activity itself.

    4) Begin an examination of the Seven Approaches to Psychology. Yes, I have a whole lecture devoted to the topic. However, all you are responsible for copying down is the part entitled, "The Evolutionary Approach." The rest of the PowerPoint is for use as a reference source in making  a Little Book of "The Seven Approaches to Psychology." See next week.


  • 24 August - 30 August

    By midweek, we should have completed the task of examining the seven approaches psychologists use to explore psychology. After completing your Seven Approaches to Psycholgy booklets (see below for instructions), everyone will try their hand at applying the approaches to a list of scenarios. The activity sheet for this assignment is below.

    Once your understanding of the approaches is complete, we will move into the second part of the unit on research methods. 

  • 31 August - 6 September

    This is a really short week. Not only is there no school Monday due to

    We will be launching our study of research methods, which will begin with a set of lecture notes called "Psychological Experimentation." These can be found below.

    We will then return to the Crash Course Psychology video series. The related assignment to each episode will vary throughout the year, but for the first eight episodes, I just want you to write down "5 Things That Hank Said." If you want some extra credit, you may write down up to 10 things. This week's episode is called "Research and Experimentation," and can be found below for repeated viewing.

    Continuing our study, you will be completing a couple of textbook activities. Both (Psychology IQ Quiz and Graphic Organizer of Research Methods) can be found below. Use Chapter Two in Psychology and You for assistance.

    We will round out the week with a look at Identifying Variables. This activity can also be found below. This is largely a homework assignment, and will be due in by Tuesday (9/10).

    EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES: Two lab assignments which I usually give, I've decided to make optional for those wanting (or needing) to pick up a few extra points. 1) Conduct an interview with a psychologist. 2) Create an Experiment. Instructions for both can be found below.

  • 7 September - 13 September

    This week we wrap up our first unit of study. But first, a quick lesson in ethics.

    We've spent the last two weeks examining how psychologists conduct research. One more item that's very important is the ethical means under which researchers operate. There are four guidelines set down by the APA that all research psychologists must adhere to. They can be found below.

    Once that is out of the way, you're free to review for the unit test, which I plan to give on Wednesday. I know it's a flex day, but you should be able to complete it in the time allotted. The test is only 35 questions. To assist you in your study, below you may find a study guide for the test. It is guaranteed that reviewing this will enhance your grade. Additionally, you may make a cheat sheet - whatever you can WRITE on both sides of a sheet of paper = to use while taking the test.

    Thursday and Friday of this week will be given over to watching "The Truman Show." The accompanying assignment to the film can be found below. You will have the choice of responding (with a 1 1/2 to 2-page essay) to one of two writing prompts. This will be due next Thursday (9/19).

    Note: The two extra credit opportunities listed last week are not due until the first week of October. If you decide to do the Create an Experiment project, not there links below to download tools that will assist you.  

  • 14 September - 20 September

    This week begins our study of Biological Psychology. With this unit comes a study of our body (the nervous system, the endocrine system, and the brain), and how physiology can influence both thinking and behavior.

    Moving into the Biology unit, we start things off with textbook activities relating to chapter three in Psychology and You. Although copies were made for each of you to include in your interactive notebooks, I've also included the Brain, Body and Behavior packet below. When completed by Tuesday, each of the pages will be placed on the next five left-side pages of the notebook. The right side will include ...

    the Nervous System lecture notes, which can also be found below. Breaking the lecture up in class will be the third episode of the Crash Course series, "The Chemical Mind."

    Note: An episode of Discovering Psychology - The Behaving Brain - can be found below. This is a series previously shown to class (some episodes still are). Also below, is the worksheet that can be printed out, completed, and handed in for extra credit.

    Finally, this week I will be assigning you the next project. This time, you will be working within your groups to make a model of a neuron. The project, which can also be found below, will be worth 100 points and will be due by the end of September.

  • 21 September - 27 September

    This week we alter our biological examination slightly, as we turn our focus onto the Endocrine System. 

    Monday/Tuesday: You will be constructing flipbooks on the Endocrine System. I will provide the paper and instruction, while you demonstrate your artistic and research skills. The instruction sheet can also be found below. These will be due on Wednesday. Speaking of what's due, notebooks need to be turned in at the beginning of the week. Contents includes the 3B Packet activities and the Nervous System Notes. 

    Wednesday: I've set aside time for you to work on your Neuron Model project with your groups. Have materials ready to get started. Also note that I will be here on Saturday morning for anyone who wants to come in to work on their projects then.

    Thursday: Begin copying notes on the "The Brain." Per your preference, I have included both the PowerPoint and Word versions of the text. (If you use the PPT., you do not have to copy slides 14, 17, an 18). I expect you to get at least through the Limbic System today. Please remember, condensing the notes results in a condensed grade. 

    Friday: Working in your groups today, you will be examining the Structure-Function-Location of the brain. This activity is all hands-on. Working with an assortment of index cards, each group will be charged with properly identifying each part of the the brain, where it can be found, and what it does. The worksheets each of you will be completing, will go on the next three left-side pages of your notebooks. I'll be giving you the worksheets, but just in case you miss class, both the worksheets and the word/terms are below.

    NOTE: Anyone wanting to do test corrections on the Methods and Research Exam can find the test located below. To do your corrections, you must follow these instructions or not receive credit. 1) Title a second sheet of paper "Methods and Research Test Corrections." 2) Comparing your original answer sheet to the test, write the number of each question marked wrong, followed by the entire question and then the entire answer (both letter and text) beneath it. In cases where the answer is an "all of the above" type answer, you need to write that along with all the possibilities offered. Remember, this is for more than just to get points; you also need to learn. 3) Staple your correction sheet to the original answer sheet and hand in. For every correction you get right, I'll give you a point back on the test.  This must be completed by next Friday, 10/4, for credit.

    EXTRA CREDIT: For anyone wanting, or needing, extra points, check below for a crossword puzzle, "The Brain's Building Blocks." This needs to be done by Monday, 10/7 for credit.

  • 28 September - 4 October

    This week, we'll continue our focus on the parts of the brain and the functions of those parts. 

    Activities for this week include:

    1) Continuing and concluding work on "The Brain"notes. Picking up where you left of last week, you'll learn a little about hemispheric specialization and handedness, the lobes, and how to look inside the brain.

    2) Hemispheric Dominance Activity. Within the scope of the notes, the class will engage in a few activities, the first of which is determine through survey which part of the brain guides you.

    3) Crash Course #4 -  "Know Your Brain." We'll watch it in class; no notes required this time. It's posted below if you desire subsequent viewings.

    4) Spinal Cord Injury. As the other part of the Central Nervous System (CNS), we'll take a look at how the spinal cord is affected by injury.

    Remember: Your Neuron Model projects are due this Friday, 10/4.


  • 5 October - 11 October

    This week, we move from identifying the parts of the brain to exploring the different ways the brain may be injured.

    Actually, before we get into that, we'll finish up with the spinal cord injury quiz begun last Friday. 

    Tuesday is a mop up day, completing any outstanding activity not turned in yet. Wednesday, your notebooks are due in for grading. It will be the last of the quarter: No late work will be accepted after this Friday. So, have everything done.

    Wednesday, we launch into the next lecture, "Brain Injuries." You will start writing these on the next right-side page following "The Brain" notes. As I do not plan to finish these by the end of the week, they will not be part of the first-quarter grade. 

    Note:: It is important to remember that this Friday (10/11) marks the end of the first quarter. Again, since next Monday starts a new quarter, any past work not turned in by Friday will not be graded.

  • 12 October - 18 October

    The "Brain Injuries" lecture should just about be finished, so on the agenda for Monday-Wednesday is a further exploration of what can result from various degrees of damage to the brain. In fact, this whole week is devoted to the various ways the brain can be damaged and what that means.

    Aside from the lecture, you will be doing a few left-side activities to supplement your notes.

         1) Damage to Brain Structures (will be handed out in class, but can also be found below)

          2) Case Studies - Brain Damage (also handed out, but found below)

    I hope that by the end of the week we will be watching the film, "Awakenings." 

    Extra Credit:  Below, you will find an article titled "26 Fascinating Facts About Your Brain." As you read through the article, please do the following (not in your notebooks):

         1) Write down each fact with a short description of the statement,

         2) Choose any two of the facts and write a paragraph or more on how it applies to your daily life.

    If you choose to do this, it needs to be turned in by next Friday, 10/25.

  • 19 October - 25 October

    This week culminates our study of biology's influence on behavior.

    Monday will be spent finishing up everything that you've been working on (Brain Injury Notes, Damage to Brain Structure, and Case Studies - Brain Damage). 

    By Monday night, you will be able to download and printout the Biology and Behavior Test. This will be due in to me by the end of the week. Remember, I want you to print it out, write your answers on the test itself, and hand it in.

    After you return on Thursday (following another student-free day Wednesday), we will begin work on the next unit of study, Human Development. 

    First up will be a couple of left-side activities. These will include; 1) a Student Journal Prompt, and 2) Vocabulary Worksheet for Chapter 10. Both will be supplied to you and both will be due by the end of the week. 

    Interwoven into these activities will be the next set of lecture notes, called "Child Development." These will be due by the middle of next week. You can find the notes below. Remember - Copy everything.

    NOTE: The test for this unit (as I have said in class) is a take-home exam. You will find the link "The Brain and Behavior Test" located below. Print it out and write your answers in the left column next to each question. The test will be due back to me by the end of the day on Friday, 10/25.

  • 26 October - 1 November

    Image result for Halloween images
    Here's to a good week and a Happy Halloween.

    With the month quickly winding down, we move further into our exploration of the human life span. 

    Before returning to your notebook activities, however, Monday we'll be taking a look at genetics and how they influence our biology and, later, our behavior. 

    Tuesday, you will continue adding to your notebooks, as we delve further into the "Child Development" notes. Topics at hand will be Sensory Abilities, Temperament, Emotional Development, including Separation Anxiety. 

    Wednesday, our look at child development continues with a viewing of the Crash Course episode "The Growth of Knowledge." There are no notes for this, however, you may print out and complete the accompanying worksheet for extra credit. This would be due by next Wednesday, 11/6. The remainder of the period will be left open for you to finish up your "Child Development" notes. 

    Note: The notes actually end with the section on Day Care and Attachment. However, there is a final portion which outlines Freud's stage theory of sexual development. If you complete this portion (and it will be good to have them later), 15 points of extra credit will be given.

    The final two days of the week, will be taken up examining the work of famed child psychologist Jean Piaget. This will be in the form of an activity project which includes a set of notes to annotate, a crossword puzzle, and a trio of activities that apply Piaget's theory to real-world concepts. This is a stand-alone activity and does not go in your notebook. It will be due on Monday, 11/4.


  • 2 November - 8 November

    This week, we continue our look at human development with an examination of Adolescence and then Adulthood and Aging. Here's what's on the docket:

    1) T-E-E-N-A-G-E-R acrostic - On page 43 of your notebooks, write the word down the left side, then use each of the letters as the beginning of a series of sentences explaining either what it's like to be a teenager, or describe the perception that adults may have about teenagers.

    2) Adolescence Packet - There are five page of activities for this packet. They will go in your notebooks as such:

        a) Adolescence Journal Prompt on page 45

        b) Crossword Puzzle on Adolescence on page 47 (note: you do not place the clue page in your notebook)

        c)  Graphic Organizer - John Marcia's Identity States on page 49

        d) Independent Practice Worksheet (two pages) on pages 51 and 53                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

    3) Adolescence lecture/discussion - An edited down version of the original lecture will be given in class (and can be found below). The written notes go on right-side pages beginning after "Child Development" ends. (In the model, that's on page 42.)

    4) Instructions given on the next project, to personalize the Five Stages of Grief. The directions on what to do is below.

    5) Crash Course episodes, "Monkeys and Morality" and "Adolescence." The worksheets can be found below for extra credit.

    NOTE: I added on here an additional extra credit opportunity for everyone. Below you can find the links for both the activity and worksheet of PsychSim - Who Am I? If you choose to do this, it will be due by the end of next week.

  • 9 November - 15 November

    Image result for veterans day

    This week, we continue the middle portion of our study of Human Development - Adolescence.

    After a day off for Veterans Day, we will do the following (all in your notebooks):

    1) Adolescence Journal - Choose one of the three prompts in the handout. This goes on the next left-side page following the second of the two Independent Practice Worksheets. 

    2) Kohlberg Activity - Two-page assignment, which goes on the next two left-side pages following the above journal prompt. Access the PowerPoint notes below to complete the six-square table page with info about the three levels (six stages) of Kohlberg's ideas on moral development. Once the notes are complete, respond to the dilemmas facing young Jonathan.

    3) Adolescence Notes - Conclusion of the lecture we started last week. Keep it running on even-numbered pages.

    4) The Life Cycle - A short set of lecture notes on the eight stages of Erikson's theory of psycho-social development. This begins on the next even-numbered page following the Kohlberg activity.

    Remember: There are a few extra credit options for this week. The Crash Course worksheets for the "Monkeys and Morality" and "Adolescence" episodes,  are due by Friday (11/15). 


  • 16 November - 22 November

    The final stage of Human Development -- Adulthood and Aging -- is on the agenda for this week. As such, the tasks before you are as follows:

    1) The Life Cycle Notes -- This account of Erik Erikson's eight stages of psycho-social development is something we'll work on through Wednesday. They are very short, so it shouldn't take to much time. 

    2) Adulthood and Aging Packet -- This four-page activity will run on consecutive pages following the end of the Adolescence Packet and Life Cycle Notes. 

    4) Human Development Test -- No cheat sheets are needed as this will be an open-notebook test.

    Note: Your "Five Stages of Grief" booklets/PowerPoints are due at the beginning of the week we get back.


  • 23 November - 29 November




  • 30 November - 6 December

    This week marks the end of one unit and the beginning of another, as we transition from Human Development into Sensation and Perception. The new unit marks the first of many that deal with material relating specifically to you as individuals, and will hopefully help you understand what makes each of you unique. The key word from here on is "experience."

    In the first part of the week, all classes will launch into Sensation. Note: There will be no lecture for this portion of the unit. All work on Sensation will be done via what I call guided note taking (three pages) and three activity worksheets. Additionally, there are two pages on which you are requested to identify the parts of the eye and ear. In doing so, you will need to define all the terms and then draw diagrams of both with all parts labeled.

    To clarify, this week you will:

    1) Begin work on Sensation. We'll start by looking at the five senses and the various aspects of sensation we experience in our lives. Below, you will find the Sensation/Perception work packet (Chapter 4). As usual, I will provide you with the needed pages to place in your notebooks. However, you can also find the packet below.
           a) Odd-side pages include a sensation/perception journal, T-F questions, and a graphic organizer identifying the five senses (for this, you will also be expected to describe each sense and define its absolute threshold). Within this mix, will be the two pages identifying and defining the parts of the eye and ear. Instructions for the terms and diagrams can be found below.
           b) Even- side pages will be a Learning Goals Outline consisting of 20 questions. The information you write here (using Chapter 4) substitutes for lecture notes. Again, these pages will be provided to you.

    2) Define the terms of the various parts of the eye and ear, and identify their locations. You will receive a two-page activity for this which will go on subsequent pages (whether they face or follow each other).

    Human Development Test -- Before of the above, however, check for the Human Development Test below. PRINT IT OUT!!! Then complete it, using your notebook and the text. It will be due at the beginning of class on Friday. If you turn it in later in the period, you lose 25%. you turn it in on Monday (or later next week), you lose 50%. It will not be accepted after Friday, 12/13. Note: As an additional study source, I've included below a chart called Human Development Theories.

    EXTRA CREDIT: There are two extra credit opportunities available for this week. Both are Crash Course episodes ("Sensation and Perception" and "Homunculus") for which you can create an outline using the main areas of discussion and creating bullet points totaling up to 15 items. 

    BONUS EXTRA CREDIT: If you sign up and come in to Saturday School on 12/7, you'll have the opportunity to do an extra credit project on the Senses. If done completely, this can be worth up to 50 points. But, it can only be done on that day.

  • 7 December - 13 December

    This week, we move into the second half of Sensation and Perception, with an examination of how we interpret that which we take in through our senses. The most important thing to remember is that Perception is extremely subjective. We may all be affected by the same external stimuli, but the way we process the information and act on it is determined by our own experiences.

    The lecture/discussion (you can find the notes below) will begin at the beginning of the week, and conclude at the end.

    In addition to the lecture, you will be completing (in your notebooks) a multi-page activity on Perception. I will instruct where to place this in your notebooks. Although I will be providing a copy to each of you, the activity can also be accessed below.

    MORE EXTRA CREDIT: More Crash Course ("Perceiving is Believing"). If you want to do the extra credit offered, it will be due on Friday, 12/13. No late work.


  • 14 December - 20 December

    Wow! Finals week is here. Two important things to remember for this week are, 1) the "final" test will be taken Tuesday by all classes, and 2) ABSOLUTELY NO LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED THIS WEEK.

    The test itself will be specifically on Sensation and Perception. It will be a modified version of the unit test (which normally would include Consciousness). So, expect about 20 questions. Below you will find a study guide for the test.

  • 21 December - 27 December

    Have a great vacation everyone. See you on January 13th.

  • 28 December - 3 January

  • 4 January - 10 January





  • 11 January - 17 January

    This week marks the start of the second semester -- it's going to go faster than you think, Seniors -- and begin taking a look at Consciousness.

    Scheduled for the week:

    Tuesday: Journal #1 - Observing myself. Watch yourself from the outside. Pick a recent day in your life and describe it from the third-person point of view (using he or she). Don't be satisfied with merely reporting details; include opinions, evaluations, and so on. For example, "She argued with her dad for 30 minutes and would not admit to herself that she was being stubborn." Notice it's she, not I.   (In your notebooks, this goes on the next left-side page.) 

    We'll also be watching the next episode of the Crash Course series, this one appropriately named "Consciousness." Write down at least 10 thingfs that Hank talks about in the video. This is not extrea credit.

    Wednesday: Dream Journal Activity - We will be reviewing the instructions for your current project, to create a dream journal and provide an analysis. Note - This assignment will be due on Wednesday, February 7.

    Thursday and Friday: States of Consciousness - This is the first set of lecture notes for the semester. You'll be able to work from the chrome books as the lecture is given.

    Extra Credit: Also below is an article (well, actually two) on Consciousness. For anybody wanting some extra points, read the article " I Think, Therefore I Am?" and provide me with five key elements found in the article. In order to get the credit, they must be substantial. As a bonus, you may also read the associated interview with Dr. Christof Koch, extracting five key quotes from the answers he gave to the interview questions about consciousness. Either, or both, of these is due by the end of next week.


  • 18 January - 24 January

     

    Last week, the focus was on the different states of consciousness. We now look more specifically into, first, the unconscious realm, and then the various altered states of awareness. We'll do this by completing the following:

    1) The lecture on States of Consciousness concludes. The last part deals with sleep disorders. This should be completed by Tuesday.

    2) There are two Crash Course episodes scheduled for this week - "Sleep and Dreams" and "Altered States." You will be given worksheets for each episode to complete while watching the video and turn in at the beginning of the next class. Note: These are not for extra credit.

    3) By the end of the week, we'll be taking a look into the realm of hypnosis. It is a very short lecture, so we should get through it by Friday.

    Extra Credit: For anyone wanting to take an extra look into how drugs can alter consciousness, below you can find a Powerpoint lecture that I don't give anymore. Copying any or all of these notes can get up to 25 points.

  • 25 January - 31 January

    This week concludes our examination of Consciousness.

    Monday and Tuesday, classes will be exposed to the Conscious experience that is "The Yellow Submarine." There is a study guide for the film which can be found below. Please provide a paragraph answers of 3-5 sentences for each of the five thought questions. This will be due by next Wednesday, 2/5.

    By Friday, we will start the next unit on Motivation and Emotion. Work begins with the pages of the Motivation Packet, which you will do individually and place on left-side pages in your notebooks. This will be due next week.

    Lest we forget, there is a test this week. Check below for a study guide for the test. Using this, you may prepare a cheat sheet that may be used on the day of the test -- which, by the way, will be Friday 1/31.

    Once the test is done, you will begin work on the pages of the Motivation Packet. Although I will be giving you each page, the whole packet can be found below. All work goes on the left-side of your notebook.

    Finally, a reminder that the Dream Journal and essay analysis is due by next Friday, 2/7. The essay must be a standard 5-paragraph essay, typed, double-space and at least two pages long. Note: You may send the essay to me digitally by Sunday night, 2/9. The journal, however, must be shown me for grasde by Friday.

  • 1 February - 7 February

    This week I hope to motivate everybody enough to finish our look at that psychological concept. Along with completing the Motivation lecture (found below), we will determine how self-actualized you all are by reviewing Abraham Maslow's hierarchal pyramid of needs and the characteristics associated with self-actualized people. The list can be found below.

    We will also, by the end of the week, have watched the Crash Course episode, "The Power of Motivation." Anyone who prints out the study guide for the episode will be given one point of extra credit for each question completed. The study guide can be found below, as can the link to the video. These would be due by next Wednesday, 2/13/4.


  • 8 February - 14 February

    Image result for lincoln's birthday   

    Even if we can't control our emotions, perhaps this week we can learn what they are and why we have them. The notes can be found below. The lecture is actually in two parts, with Emotions being covered first and then Stress coming later. 

    To get you started thinking about emotions, your first assignment for this part of the unit will be to think about YOUR dominant emotion; the one that drives you the most.  We will then watch the first of two Crash Course episodes for this portion unit - "Feeling All the Feels." Again extra credit will be afforded for doing the study guide, which may be found below along with a link to the video. This is due the end of next week.

    NOTE: Because you just got the instructions for the Goal Booklet project, I decided to make the project usually associated with this part of the unit optional. So, if you so choose, the instructions for the Music and Emotion project can be found below. The deadline for it will be the first week of March. Maximum value = 40 points.

    FINAL NOTE: For anyone wanting to do test corrections for the Conscious Test, you may find the test below. As usual, download the test and copy entirely any question missed. Then provide the complete correction answer (both the letter and written answer). If it is a D - all of the above type answer, you'll need to include all the other choices as well. When done, attach your correction page to the original answer sheet and hand in by Friday, 2/14. You'll get back a point for each correction you get right.


  • 15 February - 21 February

    Image result for Presidents Day
    Another four-day week thanks to all the other presidents.

    When we return on Tuesday, we will continue, in earnestness, our examination of Emotions. Beyond that, however, we will pay attention to the concept of stress and what it can lead to.

    If we can stay on schedule, I hope to show you the film "Inside Out" at the end of the week. There is a two-page study guide that accompanies the movie which I will pass out at that time. However, you can also find it below.

    Remember that the Goal Booklet project is due on Friday. As a visual aide, I've attached a folder below with a few examples of previous efforts.


  • 22 February - 28 February

    With Motivation and Emotions now out of the way, this begins our examination of how and why we Learn.

    The first part of the week focuses on what Classical Conditioning is all about. This will be done through lecture notes (found below), the Crash Course episode "How To Train A Brain" (link and worksheet also below for extra credit), and additional worksheets which will be handed out, but can also be found below as part of the Learning Packet.

    By the end of the week, we will start the transition over to Operant Conditioning. In fact, Friday will be a PsychSIm called .... Operant Conditioning. Handouts will be provided. Since PsychSims are no longer online, this activity will be done together as a class. I also may introduce you to an older video series called "Discovering Psychology." This is a series hosted by Stanford professor Philip Zimbardo.

    Reminder -- The "Inside Out" activity is due by Tuesday, 2/25. Also, any extra credit from last week is also due by week's end.

  • 1 March - 7 March

    Continuing our look at the ways we learn, we'll begin this week with an in-class project of sorts. Below, you will find the instructions to make a "Little Book of Learning." (No need to print it out, because each of you will get one.) Each page of the book will be filled with everything related to Classical Conditioning, Operant Conditioning, Social Learning, and more. If you complete the assignment completely, not only will you receive a lot of points (50) for your effort, but the book then becomes the one and only test aid to be used next week when you take The Learning Test.

    Wednesday there is no instruction due to the SAT.

    By the end of the week, we will be moving into the realm of Social-Cognitive Learning. Aside from a few supplemental examples (the Crash Course episode "The Bobo Beatdown" being one), each of you will be expected to read pp 208-215 from the text. As you read, please  1) extract 20 facts from text; and then 2) create a cognitive map of your neighborhood following the directions on page 215.

    EXTRA CREDIT -- Below you may find the worksheet for "The Bobo Beatdown" which you can fill in for extra points. 

  • 8 March - 13 March

    The Learning portion of the unit wraps up this week. There is a study guide for the test below, and, as mentioned before, you may use your Little Book of Learning to assist you in answering the test questions (if you made one).

    Also below, you will find the Crash Course - "The Bobo Beatdown," which you may do for extra credit.

    If time permits this week, we will also engage as a class in the PsychSim activity "Monkey See, Monkey Do." Worksheets will be provided to you.

    Finally, the Motivation/Emotions Test is finally up. You may do test corrections on this to improve your grade. To get credit, copy the entire question for each you got wrong, along with the complete answer (letter and answer). For each one you get right this time, I'll give you back one point. This also would be due by Friday.

  • 15 March - 21 March

    This week marks the end of the third quarter. However, it is also the beginning of the next unit of study.

    We begin our examination on Memory with a look at your earliest memory. Hank Green then gives us an introduction in the Crash Course episode "How We Make Memories." As usual, you can do the worksheet, found below, for extra credit. Also below, is the worksheet for the next episode called "Remembering and Forgetting," which we should be watching at the end of the week. If you choose to do either or both of these for extra credit, they will be due in by the end of the week we come back from vacation (4/3).

    As for the rest of the week, it is very important that each of you to complete two things:
         1) The Learning/Memory Charts - There are three assignments in this bundle: 1) a vocabulary lesson called "Memory Crossword," 2) a graphic organizer on how we form memories called "Factors Influencing Learning, and 3) a chart called "Memory Methods." Refer to Chapter 8 of the text to complete all three. You will have all period Thursday to work on these in class. They will be due when we come back from vacation.
         2) Human Memory Notes - Use the chrome books to start copying the notes. I will be lecturing on Tuesday. These will be due by week's end, whether I completed the lecture or not.

    Friday is a wrap-up of the Memory section. While you may have the period to work on notes (turn them in if individually written, show them to me if in your notebooks), you will be watching the Brain Games episode "Remember This."

    Next week: Spring Break

  • 22 March - 28 March

    Image result for spring break art


  • 29 March - 4 April

    This week marks the beginning of something completely new. In these difficult times, we will be moving forward completely online. 

    We begin our examination on Memory this week. In doing so, I am giving you all four assignments which, if done right, should take up about two hours of learning time.

    1) Journal - What is your earliest memory? It begins with a look back into your own past. I want you to think as far back as you can to recall your earliest life memory. What was it? How old were you? Respond with as much detail as you can in a paragraph or two.

    2) Crash Course - "How We Make Memories." We'll be utilizing this video series a lot in this remote setting. And for every lesson that Hank Green gives, you will be completing the worksheet for that episode.

    3) Human Memory Notes - No longer will I expect you to copy everything you see. Sometimes I'll have you complete a summary outline of the notes, sometimes, I'll give you a study to complete, and sometimes I'll have you summarize the notes in a two or more paragraphs. This time, however, I just want you to extract 30 pieces of information/facts and complete the fact sheet I provided you. 

    4) Crash Course - "Remembering and Forgetting." The second CC episode for the week. Like the first, complete the worksheet as you watch the video.

    Please note that the weekly instructions can be found on both Google Classroom and on Moodle. As said earlier, although I will provide you with Google Docs so you may complete everything in the Classroom, you may still use your notebook to physically write everything and then submit it to me by taking a pic of your work and emailing it. Whichever works for you.





  • 5 April - 11 April

    This week marks the beginning of something completely new. In these difficult times, we will be moving forward completely online. 

    We begin our examination on Memory this week. In doing so, I am giving you all four assignments which, if done right, should take up about two hours of learning time.

    1) Journal - What is your earliest memory? It begins with a look back into your own past. I want you to think as far back as you can to recall your earliest life memory. What was it? How old were you? Respond with as much detail as you can in a paragraph or two.

    2) Crash Course - "How We Make Memories." We'll be utilizing this video series a lot in this remote setting. And for every lesson that Hank Green gives, you will be completing the worksheet for that episode.

    3) Human Memory Notes - No longer will I expect you to copy everything you see. Sometimes I'll have you complete a summary outline of the notes, sometimes, I'll give you a study to complete, and sometimes I'll have you summarize the notes in a two or more paragraphs. This time, however, I just want you to extract 30 pieces of information/facts and complete the fact sheet I provided you. 

    4) Crash Course - "Remembering and Forgetting." The second CC episode for the week. Like the first, complete the worksheet as you watch the video.

    Please note that the weekly instructions can be found on both Google Classroom and on Moodle. As said earlier, although I will provide you with Google Docs so you may complete everything in the Classroom, you may still use your notebook to physically write everything and then submit it to me by taking a pic of your work and emailing it. Whichever works for you.


  • 12 April - 18 April

    Last week, you examined how we use our minds to store and retrieve information. This, we begin an exploration of how we use our minds to think both intelligently and creatively. There are no lecture notes this time around, however, you will be needing your textbooks to complete one of the assignments. And, yes, there's more Hank Green in store. Here's what's on the agenda:

    1) Journal -- Intelligence and Creativity. On Moodle, it can be found below as part of the Intelligence and Creativity packet. One Google, it's a separate assignment document. Remember to just choose one of the prompts.

    2) Crash Course --  "How Your Mind Can Amaze and Betray You." This is the first of two CC episodes you'll be watching this week. On Moodle, links to both the video and worksheet can be found below. On Google, the link to the video is embedded in the title of the worksheet.

    3) Independent Practice Worksheet (Chapter 9). Three pages of the charts and questions dealing with the concept of intelligence and how it is measured. On Moodle, it is the second part of the Intelligence and Creativity packet found below. On Google, it is a separate assignment document you may type on. Use Chapter 9 of your textbook to complete.

    4) Crash Course -- "Controversy of Intelligence." The second of the two CC episodes you'll be watching this week. On Moodle, links to both the video and worksheet can be found below. On Google, the link to the video is embedded in the title of the worksheet.

    Note: For anyone who is interested, there are two extra credit activities that can be done this week. However, in order to complete them, you're going to have to go old school. By that I mean, you'll have to print them out (or copy them by hand), as they can only be found on Moodle. Once complete, take a picture of your work and email it to me. Both activities -- Intelligence Vocabulary and Thought and Language Puzzle -- can be found below.


  • 19 April - 25 April

    As we continue our examination of Intelligence this week, we shift focus more to the creative side. Veering a bit away from the concept of the IQ, we will then focus more on other types of intelligence. For this, we turn to Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner and his concept of Multiple Intelligences, and finish by seeing how they apply to Forrest Gump.

    The agenda for this week are as follows:

    1) Creative Thinking Activity - Four pages describing and utilizes the creative side of the thinking process. The first page is a vocabulary exercise, wherein you apply the terms at the top of the page to the various numbered areas of the story below (Note: three terms are used twice). Page two is a puzzle page in which you provide a common phrase for each of the pictured clues. The third page asks you to figure out how to connect the like-lettered boxes following specific instructions. And page four requires artistic embellishment to the four basic designs. Only the first two are required, as they are the only ones that could be duplicated and completed in a digital format. The last two pages, which require the use of a writing utensil, can be done for extra credit. Just print out the pages, complete them and email me the pics.

    2) Gardner's Multiple Intelligences - Follow the directions provided on the first slide of the presentation "Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Activity."

    3) Personal Inventory - After completing the activity above, you can see how you measure in each of the nine areas. Follow the instructions on the inventory document below to first tabulate your numbers and then chart the results. In what areas are you most intelligent. If you do the activity here, print out the activity, fill it in, and send me the pics.

    4) "Forrest Gump" - Now, apply Gardner nine areas of intelligence to Forrest. We can't watch the whole movie as a class. However, a few years ago I created a Prezi activity which you can watch by clicking the link below. When done, in your notebook, provide a detailed description of how Forrest - while conventionally smart - possesses at least five of the intelligences defined by Howard Gardner. Note: There are at least two videos that are no longer available since this presentation was created.

    Finally: If you are starting t think this is too much work, let me inform you right now THERE IS NO TEST FOR THIS UNIT.  YOU'RE WELCOME!


  • 26 April - 2 May

    Personality moves front and center this week, as we explore different ways of looking at what makes us who we are. To provide you the information you need on personality theories, there are a pair of Crash Courses videos to view along with worksheets to complete. The study ends with an examination of defense mechanisms - what they are and why we use them.

    Here's the agenda for the week:

    1) Journal - What is you animal personality? - Based on what you know about your personality traits (how you act), what kind of animal would you be. Remember, this is based on behavior, not looks or physicality. Also, be specific when it comes to the kind of animal (don't just say, dog, cat, or bird - name a species). Provide at least two reasons why (with explanation) you believe this is your animal personality.

    2) CC - "Rorschach & Freudians": As you watch through the video, complete the accompanying worksheet.

    3) CC - "Measuring Personality": As you watch through the video, complete the accompanying worksheet.

    4) Defense Mechanisms activity -  Using the document below, create a three-column chart to 1) identify 10 common defense mechanisms, 2) define each of those defense mechanisms, and 3) provide a real-world example employing the use of each defense mechanism. You may either create your own scenario or explore the Internet to find one for each.

  • 3 May - 9 May

    Now that we hopefully understand what shapes our personality, this week we move into the abnormal realm. Instead of dealing with lecture or reading notes, Hank Green will tell you about "disordered" behavior in a trio of Crash Course episodes. But first, I want to know what you think is normal.

    1) Journal - What is normal? - Please respond to the journal prompt in a paragraph or more. 

    2) CC - "Psychological Disorders" - As you watch through the video, complete the accompanying worksheet.

    3) CC - "OCD and Anxiety Disorders" - As you watch through the video, complete the accompanying worksheet.

    4) CC - "Schizophrenia and Dissociative Disorders" - As you watch through the video, complete the accompanying worksheet.

  • 10 May - 16 May

    This week, we close out our look at Abnormal Psychology and begin the final unit on Social Psychology. The agenda is as follows:

    1) CC - "Personality Disorders." Due to the need for online learning, the big assignment for this week - applying the concept of psychopathology to the Joker after watching "The Dark Knight" - is obviously no longer happening. However, Hank does discuss the Joker within the content of the video. As usual, complete the worksheet while making your way through the video.

    2) CC - "Social Thinking." Again, as you make your way through the video, complete the accompanying worksheet.

    3) Examining Groups and Attitudes Activity - Please read through the slide presentation below relating to Groups and Group Dynamics. (Note: This is for reference only; you do not need to take any notes.) When done, complete the two-page activity on Examining Groups and Reference Groups.

  • 17 May - 23 May

    Continuing our look at Social Psychology, this week we're going to two specific areas - 1) what influences us in the social setting, and 2) how we react to other people through our thoughts (stereotyping), feelings (prejudice), and actions (discrimination). All this is covered in what would normally be the continuation of a very long set of lecture notes, but I'll let Hank Green once again sum up the highlights.

    The agenda for this week includes:

    1) CC - "Social Influences." As usual, as you make your way through the video, answer the questions on the accompanying worksheet.

    2) Journal - Prejudice and Discrimination. Choose ONE of the two prompts found on the journal activity sheet and respond in a paragraph or more.

    3) CC - "Prejudice and Discrimination." Again, as you make your way through the video, answer the questions on the accompanying worksheet.

  • 24 May - 30 May

    Instruction, for all intents and purposes, wraps up this week. Seniors -- unless they want to add to their grade by doing the assignments posted for this week -- are already done. Just note that, if you are a senior and need to complete work to pass or want to buff up your grade, your work must be turned in by WEDNESDAY, MAY 27TH to count. 

    Scheduled for this week:

    1) CC - "Aggression and Altruism." The final episode of the Crash Course series. Complete the accompanying worksheet as you watch the video.

    2) Research PowertPoint Project -- The year wraps up with this examination of either a cult (Heaven's Gate, People's Temple, Manson Family) or a Social In-Group (the KKK, mafia, Scientology). Create this product on Google Slides using the instructions found below. Note: It is considered extra credit, so doing some or all of it can only help your grade.