Year 9 Psychology: Introduction

• Year 9 Psychology introduces the field of psychology.
• Students are asked to consider why they chose to complete Psychology this semester.
• Students should reflect on what they want to gain from the course.
• Students are asked to consider how to contribute to a positive learning environment.
• Students are invited to share any information to facilitate their full potential in the course.

Learning Intentions

• Understand the semester structure.
• Gain knowledge of expectations for successful completion.
• Consider the roles and responsibilities of the human nervous system.

Success Criteria

• Describe lesson structure to a friend.
• Fulfill expectations by contributing to a positive learning environment.
• Demonstrate basic awareness of the human nervous system's structure.

Expectations

• Maintain focus during lessons.
• Complete homework.
• Be on time.
• Manage phone use.
• Use devices appropriately.
• Show respect and consideration.
• The class will brainstorm ways to support students in meeting expectations.

Cornell Note-Taking Style

• Cornell note-taking is to be used in workbooks.
• Workbooks need to include the date in the top corner for successful workbook checks.
• Diagrams, tables and graphs will need to be ruled.
• Colour coordination can be used as an efficient study technique.
• Clear and neat writing ensures feedback can be provided
• Workbooks should be in two sections using dividers, tabs, or using front/back halves.

Semester Overview

• Weeks 1-6: The Brain & Nervous System will be studied.
• Week 7: Research Methods (Science Skills) will be covered.
• Weeks 8-10: Memory will be studied.
• Term 2: Forensic Psychology will be explored.

Lesson Overview

• Allocate PowerPoint study in class, ask questions, and strengthen understanding.
• Class discussions occur.
• Activities will be completed to consolidate understanding, either in class or individually.
• Cornell notes will be completed for the set content, after deepening content understanding.

Definition of psychology

• Psychology was once defined as the study of the mind and body.
• A broadened modern definition of psychology is the systematic study of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Thoughts, Behaviors, and Feelings

• Thoughts are internal mental activity or cognition.
• Feelings are emotions experienced at a time, such as sadness, anger, and happiness; also known as affect.
• Behaviors are observable actions, like jumping or patting a dog
• Knowledge about the mind, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors comes from research.
• Psychological research uses a systematic scientific method.
• Explanations of human behavior not based on science are considered pseudoscience, e.g. astrology.

Working as a Psychologist

• Psychologists specialize in one or two specific areas within the field.
• These areas include Clinical, Neuropsychology, Academic, Educational, Sport, Forensic, Health, and Counselling.
• Psychologists undergo 6 years of training , consisting of 4 years university training and 2 years full time training/ post grad studies

Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist

-Create a table with the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists

• Watch the following clip to achieve this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jq5F2XRt6QM
• Psychiatrists are qualified medical doctors, specializing in mental illness and emotional problems.
• A Psychiatrists undergoes 13 years of training, 6 years university, 1 year intern and 5 years post graduate training
• Psychologists are not qualified medical doctors, specializing in psychological therapies.

An introduction to the field of psychology for Year 9 students. This lesson covers course expectations, learning intentions, and success criteria. Students reflect on their goals and contributions to a positive learning environment.