Psychology is taught only at A level at Hurst. There are currently over 50 members of the department comprised of 2 sets in each of the Lower and Upper Sixth and two staff. Psychology aims to address very complicated questions about the nature of human beings, for example, how the mind works and what might explain behaviour. There are no simple, single or absolute answers; there are however, different types of answers that reflect different, and sometimes conflicting, theoretical views regarding the nature of human beings and the most appropriate methods for investigating them. Through the study of psychological theories, concepts and research, students will develop an understanding of the main principles and perspectives governing Psychology. Through the course, students will develop the ability to identify ethical issues, and the application of psychology to cultural, social and contemporary issues. The topics covered also encompass a broad range of research methods in the investigation of psychological issues.
There is considerable emphasis on the processes involved in research and, in particular, scientific methodology and investigation. It is for this reason that candidates need strong mathematical/science knowledge and understanding.
Entry Requirements: the minimum GCSE requirements for AS Psychology are: English Language – Grade B, Mathematics – Grade B, Science (Double) – Grade B, Biology (Separate) B
The main subject content in AS is divided into the five core areas:
Cognitive, Developmental, Physiological, Individual Differences and Social Psychology, in addition to Research Methodology.
The diversity of material covered in the first year is intended to give a broad base and understanding in Psychology. The importance of the practical aspects of Psychology is reflected in the application of knowledge to critical issues in each of the five AS core areas, in AS, the study of a range of research methods, and in A2, their application and further consideration in Unit 4.
Development and variety of attachments
Attachment in everyday life – Day Care
Short-term and long-term memory
Models of memory
Memory in everyday life - Eyewitness Testimony
Quantitative and qualitative research methods
Research design and implementation
Data Analysis
Stress as a bodily response
Sources of Stress
Stress Management
Defining Psychological Abnormality
Biological and Psychological models of abnormality
Eating Disorders (AN & BN)
Conformity and Minority Influence
Obedience to Authority
Ethical Issues in Psychological Research
Biological explanations of eating behaviour
Eating disorders
Social psychological approaches to explaining Aggression
Biological explanations of aggression
Aggression as an adaptive response
Schizophrenia: Clinical characteristics
Issues surrounding the classification and diagnosis
Biological explanations
Psychological explanations
Biological therapies
Psychological therapies
Addictive behaviour
Scientific method in psychology Designing psychological investigations
Data analysis and reporting
Unit 1 – PSYA1: Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods 50% of the total AS marks, 25% of the total A2 marks 1 hour 30 minutes Structured compulsory questions. Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one 12-mark question requiring extended writing in which QWC will be assessed.
Unit 2 – PSYA2: Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences 50% of the total AS marks, 25% of the total A2 marks 1 hour 30 minutes Three compulsory structured questions. Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one or more 12-mark questions requiring extended writing in which QWC will be assessed.
Unit 3 – PSYA3: Topics in Psychology 25% of the total A Level marks 1 hour 30 minutes Three essay-style questions chosen from eight topics. QWC will be assessed in each essay
Unit 4 – PSYA4: Psychopathology, Psychology in Action and Research Methods 25% of the total A Level marks 2 hours Three sections Psychopathology: One essay-style question chosen from three. QWC will be assessed in this essay. Psychology in Action: One question chosen from three. Research Methods: One compulsory question
Further Education and Career Opportunities Psychology ‘A’ level is highly regarded by Universities and the course gives excellent preparation for developing skills necessary in a wide range of under-graduate and graduate degree courses. The research methods component is particularly useful for those seeking science courses or psychology disciplines as shown below:
Clinical psychology
Neuropsychology
Counselling psychology
Occupational psychology
Educational psychology
Sport & exercise psychology
Forensic psychology
Teaching & research Health psychology
Related areas
For further information, visit the British Psychology website which gives detailed information on all these at www.bps.org.uk.
10 September 2010