Psychology

A-level Course

Psychology uses scientific methods to explore human behaviour. How we study behaviour, the merits of the different research techniques we can use and the limitations of generalising the results to the whole population make it a fascinating subject. Pupils studying Psychology will learn to assess and analyse research evidence for its credibility and to consider how usefully the results can be applied to change behaviour in a practical way.

Psychology is a useful addition to many pupils' A-level portfolio. It requires both essay writing skills and the evaluation of scientific evidence, including the analysis of statistical data.

The majority of employers value a workforce capable of independent thought and Psychology at this level encourages pupils to not only criticise established theoretical explanations for behaviour but to assess the credibility of supporting research. Psychology not only provides access to a vast array of courses and employment opportunities.

We follow the AQA(A) specification "A" and we have opted for the modular approach, with the AS examinations being taken in January and in May of the Lower Sixth and the A2 examinations taken in January and June of the Upper Sixth.

Lower 6th (Year 12)

AS Psychology Syllabus:

• Unit 1: Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods.
  50% of total AS marks, 25% if total A2 marks (1hr 30minutes)
  Structured compulsory questions based on Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods.
  Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one 12-mark question requiring extended writing in which "Quality of Written Communication" (QWC) will be assessd

• Unit 2: Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences
  50% of total AS marks, 25% if total A2 marks (1hr 30minutes)
  Three compulsory structured questions, one based on each of the three sub-sections (Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences)
  Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one or more 12-mark question requiring extended writing in which QWC will be assessed.

Upper 6th (Year 13)

A2 Psychology Syllabus:

• Unit 3: Three essay questions 1 1/2 hours (3x30 minutes)
  Covering: Relationships, Aggression and Biological Rhythms and sleep
  Examination: January of the Upper Sixth year
  25% of total A-level marks
• Unit 4: Two essay questions and one comprehension of a research study - 2 hours
  Covering: Addiction, OCD and advanced Research Methods.
  Examination: End of the Upper Sixth year
  25% of total A-level marks