Exam Board: AQA
The course is for learners who are interested in learning about the causes of human behaviour and cognitive processes, and what different variables can have an impact on different human behaviours. To gain first-hand experience of what being a ‘Psychologist’ entails, students have the opportunity to carry out their own hypothesis and perform their own Psychology experiment, using both historical and modern-day approaches to Psychology. Students do not need to have studied Psychology at GCSE to complete the course.
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology (33.3% of grade): You will tackle a range of shorter questions about different explanations and scenarios, as well as essay questions on topics such as memory, attachment and conformity. This paper will test AO1 Understanding, AO2 Application and AO3 Evaluative skills – this is the content you study across Year 12 and Year 13.
Paper 2: Psychology in Context (33.3% of grade): You will answer a range of short answer questions on different aspects of different approaches, explaining different terminology and how this applies to given scenarios, as well as essay questions on the different approaches in Psychology, including Biopsychology, Cognitive Psychology and Behavioural Psychology. This paper will test AO1 Understanding, AO2 Application and AO3 Evaluative skills – this is the content you study across Year 12.
Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology (33.3% of grade): You will answer a range of short answer questions and essay questions on different aspects of the options subjects, such as Gender, Relationships, Forensic Psychology and Schizophrenia. This paper will test AO1 Understanding, AO2 Application and AO3 Evaluative skills – this is the content you study across Year 13.
To be discussed at Sixth Form application interview and will be based on attainment, attitude to learning and attendance. Students must also be capable in their biological and mathematical skills, as well as their English skills for written essays in an evaluative format.
Success in this A-Level can lead to many university courses and Further Education courses such as:
It is also ideal preparation for careers such as becoming a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, Consumer Scientist, Counsellor and Sports and Exercise Psychologist.