Psychology

Course summary

The course involves the study of psychological research and scientific methodology enabling pupils to gain a broad skill set that prepares them for higher education and a wide range of potential careers. Psychology is a science and uses a scientific approach to understanding behaviour, but is also an essay based subject that requires the student to be able to construct a coherent argument and develop high-order evaluative skills. Year one Pupils will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of key aspects of the core areas of Psychology – Social, Cognitive, Developmental, Biological and Individual Differences. Year two In year two, the specification offers a range of topics chosen for their relevance, accessibility and popularity. These options bring together explanations from different psychological approaches and students address issues and debates in contemporary Psychology. A Level Psychology Specification This qualification is linear, which means that students will sit all the A Level exams at the end of their two year A Level course and it is a stand alone qualification Compulsory content • Social influence • Memory • Attachment • Psychopathology • Approaches in Psychology • Biopsychology • Research methods • Issues and debates in Psychology Optional content Option 1 • Relationships • Gender • Cognition and development Option 2 • Schizophrenia • Eating behaviour • Stress Option 3 • Aggression • Forensic psychology • Addiction