Psychology

Curriculum Lead

Mrs V Hutchinson Cleevely - Curriculum Lead Psychology, Criminology & EPQ

Curriculum Principles & Intent

The intent of the Psychology curriculum at Key Stage 5 is to develop students' confidence and curiosity. They will understand key theories which cover areas including development, biological and cognitive psychology. Students will challenge themselves to articulate different positions within debates, such as nature-nurture and free will vs holism. Our students will appreciate how psychological knowledge has changed over time, and use their critical thinking skills to consider the impact of this. They will also become highly skilled in a wide range of research methods, and be able to apply these to different situations.

The study of Psychology creates learners who are going to positively influence the community they live in.

A Level Specifications

Exam board: AQA Specification Number: 7182

Aim of Course:

Students are encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of psychological concepts as well as a greater appreciation of psychological research; the ability to apply this knowledge to real life situations; critically analyse and evaluate the value of psychological research and its credibility as an explanation of human behaviour.

The study of psychology at A level will appeal to students who are curious about people and are interested in exploring the reasons for their behaviour. It is a versatile A level subject as it complements a variety of different A level subjects and is a credible A level for university application.

For A level psychology students need to be sensitive, open minded and willing to accept that there are no 'right or wrong' answers. Psychology is a science with cutting edge research that can be applied to issues we see in everyday life, such as psychological disorders, relationships and social influence.

COURSE CONTENT

Paper 1: Introductory topics in psychology

33.3% of Qualification (2 hours, 98 Marks)

Social influence
Memory
Attachment
Psychopathology

Paper 2: Psychology in context

33.3% of Qualification (2 hours, 98 Marks)

Approaches in Psychology
Biopsychology
Research Methods

Paper 3: Issues and options in psychology

33.3% of Qualification (2 hours, 98 Marks)

Issues and debates
Relationships
Schizophrenia
Addiction

Mode of Assessment:

The A level course is a two-year linear course with students sitting three, 2 hour exams at the end of year 13.

Useful Links

Psychology

Career Paths

Psychology is an excellent GCSE subject choice because you will be developing a number of different skills that can be used in a wide range of subjects. These include:

Evaluation Skills
Communication Skills
Debating/discussion Skills
Researching Skills

The course material and skills you develop when studying GCSE Psychology will prepare you for the A Level Psychology course.

In addition to the obvious progression onto degree courses in Psychology, a good A Level grade in this subject will be accepted as part of the qualification for the vast majority of degree courses.

Universities and employers view qualifications in psychology very favourably as this indicates good communication skills and confidence, which are important to any career.

There are so many jobs you can go into with a psychology degree, including: