Psychology
Burford School - Oxfordshire
01993823303
Cheltenham Road, Burford, OX18 4PL
Course summary

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. Psychology is an academic A-level that develops literacy and numeracy skills, as well as your ability to analyze and evaluate psychological research. In Year 12 you will learn about the origins of the subject, as well as the differing approaches to explaining behavior and the various research methods used by psychologists. Psychological research into the topics of Memory, Social Influence, Attachment, and Psychopathology will be explored, all with diverse applications to the 'real world'. In 'Memory' you will consider how we remember and why we forget. In 'Social Influence' you will explore the reasons why people obey and conform, and consider the factors involved in social change. In 'Attachment' you will learn about different attachment types and be able to explain why attachments develop, with data gained from animal studies. In 'Psychopathology' you will learn about the diagnosis, characteristics, and treatments for Depression, Phobias, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. In Year 13 you will further deepen your understanding of applied topics such as Forensic Psychology, Gender, and Schizophrenia. Finally, you will learn about the issues and debates within Psychology, such as gender bias, cultural bias, and the nature-nurture debate about a range of topics. Unit 1 Introductory Topics to Psychology - Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology. Unit 2 Psychology in Context - approaches to Psychology, Biopsychology, Research Methods. Unit 3 Issues and Debates and Options - issues and debates in Psychology, applied option topics such as Schizophrenia, Forensic Psychology, and Relationships. Lessons will involve learning about studies and theories that you will describe, evaluate, discuss, and apply to real-world contexts. Activities will include practical replication of experiments, research, independent note-making, class debates, quizzes, and group discussions. Sound note-making and regular revision are essential for success in Psychology.

Entry requirements

Two GCSE subjects at Grade 6 and four GCSE subjects at Grade 5 grades. Grade 5-5 in GCSE Combined Science, a Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics, and a Grade 5 in GCSE English Language.

How you'll be assessed

There is no coursework element for Psychology A-level. All assessment is through examination. Each unit has a 2-hour exam at the end of Year 13, which is multiple choice, short answer, and extended response.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityOxfordshire
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressCheltenham Road, Burford, OX18 4PL