This class is graded on a 100 point scale. You need to score 60 points to pass the class. You need 90 points or above to get an A.

During the semester you will complete in-class activities, homework assignments, and exams to earn points. You much also participate in psychology research studies to gain experience and earn points towards your final grade.

Assignments & Points

Task	Points	Opportunities	Total
Free Writing Papers	1 pt /paper	20	20 pts
In class activities	1 pt / activity	5	5 pts
Synthesis Papers	10 pts / paper	4	40 pts
Exams	10 pts / exam	2	20 pts
Final Exam	15 pts / test	1	15 pts
Research Participation	8pts + 2pts Extra Credit	Multiple	10 pts
			100 pts

Attendance

You are encouraged to attend every class session. In class you will complete free writing reflections and in-class activities, both of which give you points towards your final grade.

Free Writing Reflections

At the beginning of each class, you will complete a free writing activity to reflect on the course topics. This paper will be a chance for you to reflect, ask questions, and propose ideas for further exploration and discussion. Free Writing Reflections will be graded on a 0 -.5 – 1 points scale: 0 for no completion, .5 (half point) for partial completion, 1 point for full completion.

In-class Activities

Class will be an active space where you will share your ideas and questions openly. You will work with your peers in groups on worksheets, group questions, exit tickets, etc. I will collect the activity materials to document your participation.

Synthesis Papers

 Synthesis papers are ~500 word (2 page) short essays that will help you understand the course topics and prepare for exams. Each essay will demonstrate your understanding and analysis of course content. Papers will be focused on the following topics:

1. What is Research in Psychology? The first unit of our course will cover social psychology & conditioning, both of which have several examples of research studies in psychology. This paper will require you to identify and analyze these research methods and propose a research question of your own. You will also participate in research studies and can include a reflection on this participation in this paper.
2. What Makes You, You? Personal Reflection: After our second unit on developmental & personality psychology, you will analyze course content and determine if and how it gives you a better understanding about yourself.
3. How do we talk about the Brain? Biopsychology in the Media: After our third unit on Biopsychology you will engage with a piece of non-fiction media (podcast, documentary) to identify and analyze how mainstream media can help you understand biopsychology.
4. What is your Psychology Path? Careers in Psychology:Looking back at the semester, you will identify topics and avenues within discipline of psychology that interest you and explore how this connects to possible future career paths.

Exams