Psychology AS and A Level

Examination board: AQA Psychology is a science concerned with understanding the experience and behaviour of humans, and what makes people ‘tick’. Psychologists develop scientific theories which they then test by formulating hypotheses and carrying out carefully designed research studies. The 1 year and 2 year courses aim to provide a broad introduction to a range of psycho-logical theories which help explain human behaviour in today’s society, and are especially designed to develop strong skills of analysis and evaluation in students. These skills are invaluable in both higher education and in future employ-ment. During the first year students cover key topics in Psychology such as: Developmental psychology and the effects of attachment and deprivation in childhood, Social Psychology and the role of conformity and obedience in explaining different behaviours and individual differences and the possible ways of defining and treating abnormality. During the second year, students will build on some of the first year topics such as the research methods available to psychologists, while also looking at new A Level topics such as causes and treatments of Schizophrenia, processes involved in forming and maintaining relationships and explanations for individual and group aggression. To achieve success in Psychology, students need enthusiasm for academic study and an organised and mature attitude towards their work. A good level of mathematical ability is also important as various statistical tests will need to be understood for the data analysis. As a science subject, Psychology combines well with Biology and Mathematics. The essay focus in examination an-swers also means it is complemented by essay based subjects such as: English, Sociology, History and Geography. Students will be expected to write both short and longer essay answers to examination questions, at both AS and A Level. Assessment : Year 1 examinations (taken in the summer of Year 12)

Year 2 examinations (taken in the summer of Year 13)

Careers and Study Progression Psychology is popular at degree level and graduates can go on to specialise in one of the many fields of Psychology,

such as Clinical, Counselling, Educational, Forensic, Health, Occupational, Sport and Exercise. Psychology is also

relevant to many other careers, such as: Marketing and Advertising, Police and Probation Services, Media, Teaching

and Research.

Unit Topic Time Marks Weighting

1 Introductory topics in Psychology (Social influence, Memory, Attachment)

1hr 30mins 72 marks 50% of AS Level

2 Psychology in context (Approaches, Psychopathology, Research methods)

1h 30 mins 72 marks 50% of AS Level

Unit Topic Time Marks Weighting

1 Introductory topics in Psychology (Social influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology)

2 hrs 96 marks 33.3% of A Level

2 Psychology in context (Approaches, Biopsychology, Research methods)

2 hrs 96 marks 33.3% of A Level

3 Issues and options (Issues and Debates, Relationships, Schizophrenia, Aggression)

2 hrs 96 marks 33.3% of A Level