Psychology

This is a 1- to 3-credit course depending on the number of mods taken. The mods may be split across multiple years. The prerequisite mod, Introduction to Psychology (HIS466A), may be taken in 10th grade. The remaining mods, taken in 11th and/or 12th grade are described below. Students planning to take all 3 mods and sit for the AP exam should register for HIS468A (not HIS466H). Students who want only one or two of these mods and/or do not plan on sitting for the AP exam should register for HIS466H and may take the mods in any order.

Biological Bases of Behavior
During this mod, students focus on the role of biological functioning in behavior. Students will get an introduction to basic concepts in neuroscience including the functions of neurons, neurotransmitters, hormones, and areas of the brain, and genetic determinants of behavior. Additionally, students will delve into the role of consciousness, effects of psychoactive drugs, and the impact of stress on our physical and mental health. In the perception and sensation portion, students will examine the structures of our body that interpret sensory information as well as the role of experience and expectations in our perception. Lastly, students will learn about motivational forces, theories on emotion, and the impact of stress. Students will be assessed through a variety of means including traditional tests, writing assignments, and projects.

Cognition, Learning and Intelligence
During this mod, students examine the processes of thinking, memory, language, learning and intelligence as determinants of our behavior. Students will explore influential theories of learning and their applications in their own lives. This leads into a discussion of how our memory systems work in coordination with learning principles and the understanding of human thought. Students will evaluate the biases present in our thinking as well as assess standard measures of intelligence. Students will be assessed through a variety of means including traditional tests, writing assignments, and projects.

Developmental and Abnormal Psychology
In this mod, the focus is on how we change throughout our lifespan as well as the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Students will begin by examining foundational theories explaining physical, social, and cognitive development at different ages. This discussion includes the development of moral reasoning and gender identity. Students will then delve into the world of clinical psychology where they will learn to differentiate various disorders, understand the diagnostic process and the implementation of appropriate treatments. Students will be assessed through a variety of means including traditional tests, writing assignments, and projects.

Min-Max Credit Hours: 1.0-3.0