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SSP501: Psychology (2012-2013)

CURRICULUM PROGRAM: Social Studies
COURSE TITLE: Psychology
CALENDAR YEAR: 2012-2013
GRADE LEVEL: 11-12
CODE: SSP501
TYPE: GE
CREDITS: 0.50
COURSE LENGTH: 18 weeks

Major Concepts/Content: This course provides students the opportunity to explore psychology as the scientific study of mental processes and behavior. Areas of study include the scientific method, development, cognition, personality, assessment and mental health, and the socio-cultural and biological bases of behavior.

Major Instructional Activities: Instructional activities will be provided relative to the content standards of the Psychology. Students plan, design, and develop research projects relative to the study of behavior and society. Instructional strategies include conducting interviews, researching case studies, and participation in self-awareness and group dynamic activities.

Major Evaluative Techniques: Evaluation will be comprised of assessments for/of learning in content standards knowledge, case studies, research, and group projects.

Course Objectives: Upon completion of the Psychology course of study, students should be able to:

• Understand the development of psychology as a science by analyzing its historical development, research, strategies, philosophical approaches and identifying ethical issues.
• Explain developmental patterns in humans.
• Investigate the structure, biochemistry and circuitry of the brain and nervous system to understand their roles in affecting behavior, including the ability to distinguish between sensation and perception.
• Recognize that personality is a relatively stable pattern of behaviors, thoughts, motives and emotions that characterize the individual.
• Understand how organisms adapt to their environment through learning, information processing and memory.
• Understand the causes and attributes of different mental disorders and the varying treatment options available to assist those who are afflicted.
• Understand the different psychological and physiological factors that affect human motivation and emotion, while investigating the concept of human consciousness.
• Understand the socio-cultural dimensions of behavior including topics such as conformity, obedience, perception, attitudes and the influences of the group on the individual