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Psychology

Psychology

Head Of Department: Mrs V Smith
Contact Details: vls@felsted.org     



IB

Why study Psychology?
Psychology is an interesting and varied subject. It is closely related to the sciences, but frequently perceived to be more directly related to people and their everyday behaviour. Psychology has its roots in both the natural and social sciences, leading to a variety of research designs and applications. It essentially deals with the question of what makes us do the things that we do and provides a unique approach to understanding modern society.

The study of Psychology develops an understanding of explanations of behaviour and appropriate methods of psychological inquiry, explores how psychological research can be applied for the benefit of human beings and ensures that ethical practices are upheld in psychological inquiry.

What skills will I develop by studying this subject?
As an essay based subject, pupils will develop the ability to analyse and evaluate theories and research in written work. The heavy reliance on quantitative research methodology in Psychology also ensures that pupils develop their understanding of how to analyse and interpret statistical data.

What career pathways are open to me if I study this subject?
Apart from providing a firm foundation for Higher Education courses in Psychology, a course of study based on this specification will be useful for pupils intending to pursue careers in medical disciplines, business and social sciences. The excellent skills of evaluation and analysis gained from the study of Psychology are highly valued in the job market. Psychology is useful for any career that involves interaction with people.

Course structure
IB Psychology examines the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour, thereby adopting an integrative approach at its core. It allows pupils the opportunity to explore specialised topic areas of Abnormality and Health. All pupils carry out and report on an independent research project of their own. Higher level pupils take an additional unit in research methods.

Assessment:
Two written examinations at Standard Level, three at Higher level
A mixture of short answer and essay questions
75% of overall grade at SL, 80% at HL

Coursework
An independent experimental study
25% of overall grade at SL 20% at HL
 

 


A Level

Exam Board: AQA  www.aqa.org.uk
Syllabus Code: 7182   

Why study Psychology?
Psychology is an inherently interesting and varied subject to study; consider all the human behaviour around us! It is closely related to the sciences, but frequently perceived to be more directly related to people and their everyday behaviour. Psychology has its roots in both the natural and social sciences, leading to a variety of research designs and applications. It essentially deals with the question of what makes us do the things that we do and provides a unique approach to understanding modern society.

Pupils will develop a broad range of skills such as the ability to develop a written argument, to analyse and evaluate theories and research evidence, as well as how to analyse and interpret statistical data.

The variety in the course ensures that pupils find it interesting. Through studying psychological topics such as why we tend to obey people in positions of authority, what makes us feel male/female and causes of anxiety or criminal behaviour, pupils develop many invaluable skills in understanding human behaviour.

Expectations of independent study
Pupils should expect to be set two pieces of written work each week. They are also expected to read through their study notes to consolidate understanding of the work covered in the classroom. Wider reading of articles/novels relating to psychological issues is encouraged; there are many interesting books and films relating to psychology.

As Psychology is a science, it deals with factual information relating to studies and theories of human behaviour. There is a reliance on scientific thinking and much research evidence has to be remembered. Usefully a section of the course also deals with remembering and forgetting!

Requirements
It is strongly advised that pupils beginning the course have achieved a minimum of 6 at GCSE in English, Mathematics and Science. No prior knowledge of psychology is necessary.

What career pathways are open to me if I study this subject?
The excellent skills of evaluation and analysis gained in the study of psychology are highly prized in today’s job market. Psychology is useful in any career which involves interaction with other people. Apart from providing a firm foundation for Higher Education courses in Psychology, this course will be useful for pupils intending to pursue careers in Medical disciplines, Business and Social Sciences.

Over a third of A Level Psychology pupils study psychology related courses at university. Past pupils of Psychology have pursued degrees and PhD qualifications at Oxford, MA qualifications in Criminology at Cambridge and work in Medicine, Human Resources, Business, Schools and Forensics.

What do the pupils say?
“I would recommend Psychology as it is a very interesting subject.” 
“It is applicable to real life and relates to everyday things around me. It explains why things happen.”


Assessment:

Paper 1 33.3%
Compulsory topics in Psychology    
Written exam: 2 hours  
  
Paper 2  33.3%  
Psychology in context 
Written exam: 2 hours   

Paper 3  33.3%  
Issues and options in Psychology 
Written exam: 2 hours

The A Level course explores the study of human behaviour. Year 12 modules include key approaches in Psychology, Child Development, Research Methods, Social Influence, Memory and Anxiety Disorders.

This is further developed in Year 13 with modules in Gender Development, Psychological Debates, Forensics and Schizophrenia.

Pupils are examined at the end of the two year course in three papers which have equal weighting towards the A Level grade.


I enjoy Psychology because it allows me to communicate in class and get other people’s opinions.

Anthony, U6 pupil

 

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