Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behaviour in particular contexts.  It is a largely theoretical subject, but also requires students to be able to carry out and evaluate psychological research.  Both GCSE and A Level Psychology require students to not only learn about research but also evaluate it.  This may be in terms of methodology, impact on society or credibility.  Please bring your enquiring mind to all lessons.

GCSE Curriculum

Exam Board: AQA (Year 10) / Edexcel (Year 11)

Year 10 – AQA

Topics from Paper 1, Cognition and Behaviour

• Memory
• Perception
• Development
• Research Methods

Topics from Paper 2, Social Context and Behaviour

• Social Influence
• Language, Thought and Communication
• Brain and Neuropsychology
• Psychological Problems

Both topics are examined by a separate written paper at the end of Year 11 in which all questions must be answered. There are 2 papers in total and both are 1hour 45 minutes. Papers consists of the four sections listed in each topic above. These sections will include calculations, multiple-choice, short answer and open-response questions. The maximum open response question is 9 marks. Calculators may be used in the examination.

More details about the AQA GCSE Psychology Course can be found at: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology/gcse/psychology-8182/introduction

 

Year 11 – Edexcel

Topics from Paper 1

• Development – How did you develop?
• Memory – How does your memory work?
• Psychological problems – How would psychological problems affect you?
• The brain and neuropsychology – How does your brain affect you?
• Social influence – How do others affect you?

These topics are examined by a written paper at the end of Year 11 in which all questions must be answered. Paper 1 consists of six sections. The first five sections each cover one of the topics listed above. These sections will include multiple-choice, short answer and open-response questions. The sixth section will contain two extended open-response questions. These questions will focus on debates within psychology and the interrelationships between the core areas of psychology.

Topics from Paper 2

• Research methods – How do you carry out psychological research?
• Perception – How do you interpret the world around you?
• Criminal Psychology– Why do people become criminals?

These sections are also examined by a written paper at the end of Year 11 where students must answer all questions from Section A and all questions from the two chosen topics for Section B. We have chosen 2 out of a possible 5 topics so that there is minimal overlap with the A Level course (though we do not stipulate that those studying A Level need to have studied the subject at GCSE). The exam paper will contain question types that include calculations, multiple-choice, short answer and open response questions. Calculators may be used in the examination.

More details about the Edexcel GCSE Psychology Course can be found at:  https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/psychology-2017.html