Course Description
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. This engaging AQA course encourages students to explore how biological and environmental factors influence the way we think, feel, and act. Students will investigate fascinating questions such as why we remember some things but forget others, how our personalities develop, and how social influence can change our behavior in groups.
By studying Psychology, students will develop a deep understanding of human interaction and mental processes. The curriculum covers a range of classic and contemporary research, allowing students to evaluate the methods used by psychologists to understand the world.
Student Quotes
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed on two exams, both representing 50% of the GCSE (1hr 45 minutes each). Both papers consists of 100 marks and includes multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended-writing questions
- Paper 1: Cognition and Behaviour
- Paper 2: Social Context and Behaviour
What will I learn?
Topic
Knowledge and understanding
Paper 1: Cognition and Behaviour
- Memory: Processes, structures, and why we forget.
- Perception: Theories of perception and the difference between sensation and perception.
- Development: Early brain development and Piaget’s stages of cognitive development.
- Research Methods: How psychologists design and conduct research.
Paper 2: Social Context and Behaviour
- Social Influence: Conformity, obedience, and bystander behavior.
- Language, Thought and Communication: The relationship between language and thought.
- Brain and Neuropsychology: Structure and function of the nervous system.
- Psychological Problems: An introduction to mental health, including depression and addiction.
sKILLS
- Understand and apply psychological concepts, terminology, and theories.
- Evaluate psychological research and its contribution to our understanding of behavior.
- Analyze and interpret data gathered through psychological investigations.
- Construct reasoned arguments and reach substantiated conclusions.
What could I do next?
GCSE Psychology provides a strong foundation for further study and is highly valued across many career sectors. The skills of analysis, evaluation, and scientific research are transferable to many fields.
Further Study: Students can progress to A-level Psychology or other social sciences.
Careers: Psychology links strongly to careers in healthcare, social work, counseling, education, marketing, human resources, and the legal system.