Curriculum Leader: Ms L Smith
A Level Teacher: Ms L Smith
Examining Board: AQA (Specification B)
Form of Examination: AS: Two written papers A2: Two written papers
Should I choose this subject?
Psychology is a fascinating and exciting subject, which is concerned with studying and understanding human behaviour and experience in a scientific way. No previous experience is required, but you should be genuinely interested in understanding the reasons underlying all human behaviour. You will develop skills of critical thinking, analysis and communication and you will learn how to relate psychological findings to everyday life.
What is it about?
You will study the main theoretical approaches to Psychology, including biopsychology, the cognitive perspective and Freudian psychoanalytic theory. You will learn how to apply these perspectives to a variety of topics including gender, autism, conformity and obedience at AS Level; and child development, forensic psychology and stress at A2 Level.
How will it be studied?
Psychology lessons are designed to be dynamic and lively as the topics studied can provoke spirited discussion. Lessons will be varied – you may find yourself working independently to prepare a presentation, building a model of the human brain or carrying out informal classroom research. This is one of the most exciting aspects of the course as you will carry out experiments on real people!
How will psychology be useful in the future?
Psychology is invaluable for anyone pursuing a career that deals with people, whether you want to be a doctor, lawyer, teacher or run your own business. Having an understanding of why people behave the way they do is of benefit in almost every work situation.