This unit of the Biological Bases of Behavior consists of about 8-10% of the AP Psychology exam every spring. According to College Board's curriculum, it is "an effective introduction to the relationship between physiological processes and behavior — including the influence of neural function, the nervous system and the brain, and genetic contributions to behavior — is an important element in the AP course ." By the end of the unit, students will be able to do the following:
Identify basic processes and systems in the biological bases of behavior, including parts of the neuron and the process of transmission of a signal between neurons - (Days 5 and 6).
Discuss the influence of drugs on neurotransmitters (e .g ., reuptake mechanisms, agonists, antagonists) - (Day 7).
Discuss the effect of the endocrine system on behavior - (Day 8).
Describe the nervous system and its subdivisions and functions:
— central and peripheral nervous systems - (Days 1-4);
— major brain regions, lobes, and cortical areas - (Days 1-2);
— brain lateralization and hemispheric specialization - (Day 3).
Discuss the role of neuroplasticity in traumatic brain injury - (Day 1).
Recount historic and contemporary research strategies and technologies that support research (e .g ., case studies, split-brain research, imaging techniques) - (Day 9).