Psychology can be defined as the scientific study of human behaviour and how humans experience the world around them from a rational, scientific point of view rather than from a mythical or spiritual view. The new Edexcel specification covers a wide variety of topics and you will enrol on either an AS or an A-level course. AS students will sit one written examination and the A-level students will sit three written examinations. Psychology is a unique subject in that it suits a wide range of students. Because of the variable nature of the exam and the different schools of Psychology itself, students from both science and art subjects can easily adapt to this subject. The A-level course aims to build on the knowledge and understanding developed during the AS course. The importance of wider reading to build a holistic knowledge of the subject is further emphasised to make links between the areas of theory covered. Again, this is supported by setting regular homework and weekly Timed Assignments based on past exam questions. Emphasis is particularly placed on developing knowledge and understanding to effectively answer synoptic questions and novel situations. A Level Specification – Edexcel 9PS0 Topics 1-4, plus: Topic 5 – Clinical psychology • Diagnosis of mental disorders • Schizophrenia • Anorexia Nervosa • Research methods • Studies in detail • Key issue • Practical investigation • Issues and debates Topic 6 – Criminal psychology • Theories of crime • Police interviewing techniques • Treating offenders • Eyewitness testimony • Jury decision making • Research methods • Studies in detail • Key issue • Practical investigation • Issues and debates Topic 9 – Psychological skills • Descriptive statistics • Inferential statistics • Review of studies • Issues and debates