A level Psychology

What is the A level about?

A new and very diverse subject has joined the A level choices list. You will be expected to cover a wide range of content ranging from understanding why people conform to social role or obey authority, to learning about the structure and function of neurons. The subject as a whole looks at science in a new manner, incorporating a wide range of psychological experimentation. We will address the ethical issues of Zimbardo’s (1971), Standford Experiment as well as discovering the significance of studies such as ‘The little Albert Study’, by John B Watson (1920). As we become more familiar with cognitive and biopsychology, we can start to apply key concepts and theories to key areas such as gender, stress and aggression, gaining a clear understanding of how and why our bodies and minds work together. 

Modules

Year 1

• Social Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Individual Difference
• Approaches to Psychology
• Biopsychology
• Research Methods
• Issues and Debates in Psychology

Year 2

• Stress: the physiological and psychological role of stress. 
• Forensics: psychological explanations for offending behaviours. 
• Relationships: partner preferences and romantic relationships.

Assessment

This course is 100% exam based;

• Paper 1 - Introductory topics in Psychology
• Paper 2 - Psychology in Context
• Paper 3 - Issues and Options in Psychology