AP Psychology 2010 - 2011 Final Project Assignment
AP Psychology 2010 - 2011 Final Project Assignment
In place of a final written exam, you may choose to complete one of the following projects instead. The final due date
for the project is May 13th (no extensions, no lateness, no excuses).
For all projects – although entertainment is appreciated, all presentations must be focused on intellectual, course
content
For all projects – although entertainment is appreciated, all presentations must be PG rated and in good taste
Individual Projects
Film Analysis (Psychological Disorders)
In this assignment, you write a four-page research paper.
View a film from the list below that depicts a major psychological disorder. In a two-page, typed paper analysis,
include the following information:
- an overview of the film, describing the main characters and defining the disorder depicted
- an explanation of the symptoms of the disorder, and specific examples from the film of those symptoms
- an explanation of the therapies and treatments for the disorder, and specific examples from the film of
those therapies and treatments
One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest
A Beautiful Mind
Awakenings
Rain Man
The Aviator
Memento
Regarding Henry
Sybil
Girl Interrupted
Nell
Benny and Joon
THEN, view a film of your choice that depicts a major psychological disorder. In another two-page, typed paper analysis,
include the following information:
- an overview of the film, describing the main characters and defining the disorder depicted
- an explanation of the symptoms of the disorder, and specific examples from the film of those symptoms
- an explanation of the therapies and treatments for the disorder, and specific examples from the film of
those therapies and treatments
Your conclusion should explain why you chose these two videos and what connection they have with one another.
Complete a naturalistic observation of any subject (unknowingly of course) for at least 1-2 hours in length. Make a list of
15-20 observations of behavior. Choose 10 of the behaviors observed and hypothesize why you think those behaviors
occurred (use terminology and topics that we learned in class this year. I want to see guesses based on motivation, IQ,
biological causes, and/or genetic causes, at least).
When completed you will turn in all your profiles with a cover sheet that includes your name and the case studies you
chose to profile.
GroupProjects
Group Video Projects (All Units)
You may choose to work with a group of fellow students (3-6) to create a television show-based video production, think
the Dr. Phil Show. Each member of the group will present a 2-minute news “skit” based upon any topic that we have
covered this year. In your 2-minute presentation, you will need to present 15 facts using 3 props. No cue cards. Use
music and/or other items to enhance your performance. You can present you topic however you choose. You may do a
special report, an interview, a live-on-location report, a fact-based lecture, etc.
Fractured Fairytale
Group project – no more than 4 people per group! Beware of social loafers!
1. Select a familiar story (different story for each group)
2. Retell the story in some fashion (video, act it out, puppet show, etc – be creative) within the following guidelines
a. At least 3 characters with psychological disorders or chronic problems
b. At least one character who is a mental health professional working from a specific perspective
c. At least 12 psychological terms or concepts used (cleverly)
3. Present your version of your story to the class (10 – 12 minutes per group)
4. you may use props or media – be creative as you like
5. All members must be obvious participants – again beware of social loafers that pull YOUR grade down (you all
get the same grade!)
6. Presentation must be accompanied by a handout (for me) that includes:
a. Story synopsis
b. For each disorder, a synopsis of symptoms and appropriate therapeutic methods of treatment
c. For the mental health professional, a description of his/her method
d. List of psychological terms, concepts to be included
It’s Game Time
Students must create a psychology themed board game. The game must be educational in some way, not just use of
psychological references. For example, a bingo game that uses a question and answer type format.
REQUIREMENTS:
Students must create a game board if required (not just on a piece of paper)
Students must create all the playing pieces necessary
Typed instructions must be professional (like you would find in any other store-bought game.)
2 page explanation of reasoning, psychological relevance and value of the game.
Give a demonstration of the game to the class.
Mr. Thomas and Mr. Baker retain the game you crate for future classroom use