Psychology is the systematic study of behaviour and mental processes. We examine the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour. Pupils investigate these areas by learning a variety of research designs which they are asked to doggedly critique. By verifying whether theory is backed up by hard ‘scientific’ data, pupils can begin to collate evidence. The question we constantly visit in our lessons is: “Is Psychology a Science?.” We ask that pupils get involved actively in the classroom, debating and discerning information in order to understand and think critically. The best pupils have an interest in how their new knowledge might be applied to real world settings. Pupils are also asked to develop an understanding of ethical concerns raised by research; this encourages them to begin to reflect on how societies set limits for scientific inquiry. Contemporary topics range from the cognitive biases behind racism and stereotyping, the appropriateness of giving drugs to those with mental disorders and the influence of technology/the internet on cognition, attention and relationship formation. Whilst Psychology IB is placed in the humanities column in the IB, it requires scientific principles to be applied. It is worth noting that most Psychology degrees are Science qualifications (BSc). Pupils often find that they develop a greater understanding of themselves and those around them during their studies. By the end of the course, accomplished pupils will be able to give evidence to explain behaviour and may be able to recommend ways to use this information to affect change in modern society for the better.
The following are required for entry into the Sixth Form: • A Headmaster’s or Headmistress’ reference from the pupil’s current school • Attainment of a satisfactory standard at the Assessment Day and Scholarship Examinations or Exhibition assessments, where appropriate • Six (I)GCSE passes at Grade B (6) or above, with a minimum of Grade C (5) in English Language and Mathematics
PAPER 1: CORE (SL AND HL) – ASSESSMENT METHOD = EXAM SHORT ANSWERS/ESSAY PAPER 2: OPTIONS (2 FOR HL) – ASSESSMENT METHOD = EXAM ESSAY INTERNAL ASSESSMENT (COURSEWORK) Experimental study written up as a 2200 word assignment comprising of background academic research, data collection, data analysis, interpretation and critical analysis. This is completed in 20 hours of lesson time, plus an independent pupil write-up. RESEARCH METHODS (HL ONLY) Approaches to researching behaviour – assessment method – an ‘unseen’ stimulus material explains a study. Pupils are given a series of static short questions to answer.
About Education Provider
| Region | South East |
| Local Authority | West Berkshire |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | £48,870 |
| Sixth Form Fee | Day £39,096 |
| Address | Bradfield, RG7 6AU |
Psychology is the systematic study of behaviour and mental processes. We examine the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour. Pupils investigate these areas by learning a variety of research designs which they are asked to doggedly critique. By verifying whether theory is backed up by hard ‘scientific’ data, pupils can begin to collate evidence. The question we constantly visit in our lessons is: “Is Psychology a Science?.” We ask that pupils get involved actively in the classroom, debating and discerning information in order to understand and think critically. The best pupils have an interest in how their new knowledge might be applied to real world settings. Pupils are also asked to develop an understanding of ethical concerns raised by research; this encourages them to begin to reflect on how societies set limits for scientific inquiry. Contemporary topics range from the cognitive biases behind racism and stereotyping, the appropriateness of giving drugs to those with mental disorders and the influence of technology/the internet on cognition, attention and relationship formation. Whilst Psychology IB is placed in the humanities column in the IB, it requires scientific principles to be applied. It is worth noting that most Psychology degrees are Science qualifications (BSc). Pupils often find that they develop a greater understanding of themselves and those around them during their studies. By the end of the course, accomplished pupils will be able to give evidence to explain behaviour and may be able to recommend ways to use this information to affect change in modern society for the better.
The following are required for entry into the Sixth Form: • A Headmaster’s or Headmistress’ reference from the pupil’s current school • Attainment of a satisfactory standard at the Assessment Day and Scholarship Examinations or Exhibition assessments, where appropriate • Six (I)GCSE passes at Grade B (6) or above, with a minimum of Grade C (5) in English Language and Mathematics
PAPER 1: CORE (SL AND HL) – ASSESSMENT METHOD = EXAM SHORT ANSWERS/ESSAY PAPER 2: OPTIONS (2 FOR HL) – ASSESSMENT METHOD = EXAM ESSAY INTERNAL ASSESSMENT (COURSEWORK) Experimental study written up as a 2200 word assignment comprising of background academic research, data collection, data analysis, interpretation and critical analysis. This is completed in 20 hours of lesson time, plus an independent pupil write-up. RESEARCH METHODS (HL ONLY) Approaches to researching behaviour – assessment method – an ‘unseen’ stimulus material explains a study. Pupils are given a series of static short questions to answer.