due Tuesday 9/18: naturalistic observation; test Thursday 9/20

Here's the naturalistic observation assignment (see below).  Please ask me if you have any questions.  It's due next Tuesday (9/18) (Wednesday for G block, since we don't meet Tuesday).

Your first test (on units 1 and 2) is Thursday 9/20.  Format will be multiple choice and short answer with application of terms.  Please remember that you can find out when tests are scheduled at any point in the year by opening the Google doc I posted earlier this week.  Those dates won't change.

Conduct a Naturalistic Observation – AP Psych (unit 2)

You will be conducting a naturalistic observation, one of the descriptive research methods.  Before you conduct the observation, you need to generate some hypothesis about human behavior (this may be individual or group behavior) that you will be able to observe.    Research--and its results--must have value, so your hypothesis needs to be something without an obvious answer, i.e. something you actually need to collect data to answer. Remember that you are looking for observable behaviors:  don’t make assumptions or interpret the behavior.  You may work with a single partner on this activity if you wish.  

When you conduct the study, spend about half an hour taking notes and/or collecting data on what you are observing.  You also need to provide a piece of evidence to show that you did in fact conduct the observation--this part is up to you, but must be clear.  Remember not to interfere with the behavior of the subjects in any way as you observe.  

For the written portion (please TYPE!), describe in 1-2 paragraphs the following information:

• your hypothesis

• the location and subjects you observed

• the behavior you observed (only what you actually saw - NOT your

assumptions or interpretations)

• what your research (and data you collected) suggests about your hypothesis

• 3 (or more) correctly and thoughtfully applied bold terms from unit 2, aside from naturalistic observation and hypothesis.  Be careful that you are using the psychological definitions of common words, not the “real world” definition.  Please put key terms in bold face for this and every assignment this year.     

Please attach your notes/data and evidence to the written portion (unless it is clearly contained in the write-up).  Grading will be based on originality and thoughtfulness of the idea, correct application of the terminology, fluidity and clarity of the writing and overall level of effort, thought and sophistication apparent in the final write-up.   

Additional notes:  

• Actually do it (don’t just write about it)
• Be safe!  Don’t put yourself in any potentially dangerous situations in the name of science.  

Out of 30 points.
Due at the start of class on Tuesday 9/18 (5 point penalty for late submissions) or via Google doc shared with me if you’re not in school.  Please remember that your work must be printed and handed in at the start of class to receive full credit.