The Grey Coat Hospital

Church of England Comprehensive School for Girls

Psychology

Psychology

Exam Board: AQA

The study of Psychology will give students the opportunity to understand how the mind works.

  • You must have a grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language; a grade 5 or above in Mathematics and a minimum of one science at grade 6 or above.

It is not a requirement that you should have studied Psychology at GCSE Level.

What is the aim of the course?

  • Develop an interest in and enthusiasm for the study of the subject.
  • Appreciate the contributions of Psychology to the understanding of the wider social environment.
  • Develop an understanding of a range of concepts and an ability to use these concepts in a variety of different contexts.
  • Help students to use in an enquiring, critical and thoughtful approach to the study of Psychology and an ability to think critically with perception and insight.
  • Develop in students the skills, qualities and attitudes which will equip them for the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities of adult and working life.

Why study Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of human mind and behaviour: how we think, feel, act and interact individually and in groups.

Psychology is concerned with all aspects of behaviour and with the thoughts, feelings and motivations underlying that behaviour. It is both a thriving academic discipline and a vital professional practice.

We are all interested in what makes people tick and how this understanding can help solve major problems in society.

Psychology is a science and psychologists study human behaviour by observing, measuring and testing, then arriving at conclusions that are rooted in sound scientific methodology.

Skills students will develop

The students will have the opportunity to develop analytical skills, write essays and psychological reports. They will also develop their mathematical knowledge and research skills. These skills are all relevant and transferable to higher education courses of study or to the workplace.

The structure of 'A' Level Psychology

There is no formally assessed coursework but students do undertake their own investigative research throughout the two years in order to learn about research design.

There are 3 examinations, each of which is two hours long with equal weighting for the overall grade.

Each exam has a combination of multiple choice, short answer, and essay questions.

TOPICS COVERED INCLUDE:

  • Research methods and statistics
  • Memory and forgetting
  • Social Influence
  • Stress
  • Child Development
  • Agression
  • Bio Psychology
  • Perspectives on psychology

To find out more visit www.aqa.org.uk/psychology