In this section
Psychology (Humanities)
Head of Humanities Department: Mrs Green
Head of Subject: Mrs C Sayers
AS/A Level Course(s) Overview
Human behaviour and the mind continue to fascinate and intrigue. Much of the course will address the following questions:
- In what ways do our parents and others have a continuing impact on our lives?
- What are the factors affecting eyewitness testimony and do they make our memories inaccurate?
- Are we normal? Abnormal? Who really knows?
- What is the relationship between stress and physical illness?
- What are the functions of superstitious and paranormal belief including their cultural significance?
- How do we construct practical research activities, in order to test theories and psychological concepts?
In Psychology we aim to develop students understanding of psychological concepts and theories as well as, the implications of these for policies and practices in real life situations. Psychology is taught in a variety of ways including, the use of practical scientific investigations – to develop independent research skills - as well as, using more traditional teaching methods. There is an emphasis on applying knowledge and understanding rather than just acquiring knowledge thereby, developing student’s transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking. Students are also expected to develop these skills outside of the classroom, through the use of journals, textbooks and psychological periodicals. This course provides stretch and challenge for students of all abilities through course content and assessment.
AS/A Level Exam Boards Used
Students studying both AS Level and A Level Psychology will be doing so with AQA and will complete the following modules and sub-topics:
Course code: 2180
AS Level: (1181)
PSYA1 :
Cognitive Psychology: Memory.
Developmental Psychology: Early Social Development.
Research Methods
PSYA2:
Physiological Psychology: Stress
Individual Differences: Psychopathology.
Social Psychology: Social Influence.
A2 Level: (2181)
PSYA3:
Biological Rhythms and Sleep.
Relationships
Aggression.
PSYA4:
Schizophrenia.
Anomalistic Psychology.
Psychological research and scientific method.
The content of the course at both AS and A2 Level involves rigorous consideration of how science works, theories, studies and psychological concepts ranging from simple to more complex abstract concepts.
There is no coursework for A Level Psychology and students sit examinations in May/June.
Study Days/Educational Trips
Every year, students in Year 13 visit the Science Museum which develops student’s knowledge and understanding of wider psychological topics and issues.
