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Faculty: Humanities
Subject: A Level Psychology
Subject Leader: Mrs Bond
Staff and Responsibility: Mrs Bond and Miss Perkins
Subject Overview
Exam Board: AQA
Qualification: A Level Psychology (7182)
Assessment Model: 100% examination
About the course:
Studying A-level Psychology enables students to develop a scientific understanding of human behaviour and mental processes. Through exploring topics such as social influence, memory, attachment, psychopathology and the different approaches to explaining behaviour, students learn to critically evaluate theories and research while gaining insight into both their own behaviour and that of others. The course encourages students to become inquisitive and analytical thinkers, asking questions such as why people conform to social pressure, how memories can be distorted, or what factors contribute to mental health difficulties. A key feature of A-level Psychology is its emphasis on research methods and data analysis, equipping students with valuable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and evaluation that are highly regarded by universities and employers. The AQA specification also allows students to explore contemporary issues and debates alongside specialist areas such as relationships, schizophrenia, and forensic psychology, providing a broad and engaging introduction to the study of human behaviour and preparing students for a wide range of future pathways.
Course Content:
Across the two years, students will study introductory topics in Psychology, Psychology in context and issues and options in Psychology.
INTRODUCTORY TOPICS IN PSYCHOLOGY (Paper 1):
- Social Influence
- Memory
- Attachment
- Clinical Psychology & Mental Health
PSYCHOLOGY IN CONTEXT (Paper 2):
- Approaches
- Biopsychology
- Research Methods (including understanding of statistical test, methods used in Psychology plus mathematical knowledge including data handling and interpretation).
INTRODUCTORY TOPICS IN PSYCHOLOGY (Paper 3):
- Issues and Debates
- Relationships
- Forensics
- Schizophrenia
Assessment:
For the full two-year A-Level course, there will be three papers at the end of Year 13, each lasting two hours. Each paper is worth 96 marks and has an equal weighting towards the end grade. All papers consist of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and extended essay questions. Students are assessed on their knowledge, analysis and evaluation skills.
Potential Career Options:
Psychology is an increasingly popular choice at degree level and can open up a number of careers. These include teaching, occupational therapy, clinical psychology, research, personnel and management in industry, armed forces, policing, medicine, nursing, media and law.
