Psychology

Curriculum Overview – Psychology

Key Stage 5 only

 

 

A level Psychology
The mind is something intangible that exists within our brain. An unseen process of enzymes, chemicals and electric current moving within the structure of our neural networks dictates why we feel, think and behave the way we do. But why is it that some people suffer from stress and mental illness? Why do some people fear snakes yet a few think they are cuddly? Psychology looks at questions like these in the study of the human mind and behaviour. It is a science with cutting edge research that has real world applications to issues in everyday life, ranging from things like improving the accuracy of eye witness testimony to developing treatments for people with depression, phobias and OCD.

We aim to support students to achieve their full potential.

Website link: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology/as-and-a-level/psychology-7181-7182

 

Course Description:
This is a 2 year linear course with terminal examination.
The course specification taught is AQA www.aqa.org.uk
Students will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of psychology through a range of topics.

See below:

	What will I study?	How will I be assessed?
Unit 1	Social Influence	Assessment 2 hour terminal examination
	Memory
	Attachment
	Psychopathology
Unit 2	Approaches in Psychology	Assessment 2 hour terminal examination
	Biopsychology
	Research Methods
Component 3	Issues and Debates in Psychology
	Option 1: Relationships	Assessment 2 hour terminal examination
	Option 2 Schizophrenia
	Option 3: Forensic Psychology

Key: Red =Year 12 topics; Green =  both years; Blue = Year 13 topics

What skills will help me/ personal qualities

Students who wish to study psychology should be able to learn and memorise specialist key terms, analyse and evaluate scenarios as well as apply the knowledge gained to various aspects of life.
The knowledge gained must then be expressed effectively in writing using evidence that can be found in theories or studies in psychology..
You will need to have a competent grasp of mathematical concepts and calculations to understand, analyse data and design your own research studies in psychology. You will also need to enjoy learning about the biology of the human brain and nervous system.
The subject requires students to master all relevant theories and studies which are the crucial elements in psychology. There needs to be a high level of commitment and the willingness to work hard
If you would like to understand both yourself and others better, psychology is the subject for you.

Useful Links for supporting research and private study are listed below:

The British Psychological Society	www.bps.org.uk	Fantastic website with a broad range of up to date research and career pathways.
Kuizical	https://kuizical.com/	Resource for self quizzing
Psych Boost	https://psychboost.com/	Resources for summaries of all topics
Physics and Maths Tutor	https://www.physicsandmathstutor.com/psychology-revision/	Revision resources including flash cards, past paper questions organised by topic and supporting mark schemes.