Psychology

Assessment

In the Lower Sixth, pupils will study all of the core topics which include: • Research methods • Attachment • Approaches in psychology • Social influence • Memory • Biopsychology • Psychopathology These will be assessed across two, two-hour papers at the end of the Upper Sixth. Each topic will be examined through multiple choice, short answer and extended answer questions, making up 24 marks per topic. In the Upper Sixth, pupils build on their knowledge of research methods through learning further mathematical skills, including the application of statistical testing. During the Upper Sixth we also study issues and debates in psychology, which includes the nature vs nurture debate and the assessment of cultural issues in research. The third paper, Issues and Options in Psychology, examines pupils on three of nine optional topics. These are selected in line with pupil preferences and teaching staff expertise. The selected topics are outlined below: • Gender • Schizophrenia • Forensic psychology Paper three will also be a 2-hour examination involving a variety of question types. The three papers contribute equally to the overall A level grade awarded at the end of the course.