Psychology A Level
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Subject Leader: Mrs N Gok
Subject Teacher: Ms F Faizal
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Subject Leader: Mrs N Gok
Subject Teacher: Ms F Faizal
We offer an engaging and effective introduction to the topic of Psychology by providing a broad (yet in-depth) overview of the different fields within the subject. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop critical analysis, independent thinking and research skills, all of which are highly valued by Higher Education and employers.
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. It is a multifaceted discipline which includes many sub-fields of study, including areas such as human development, sports, health, clinical, social behaviour and cognitive processes. It seeks to understands individual and group behaviour and explain these behaviours through general principles and through the use of research.
Students are not required to have studied Psychology previously, but do need to have adequately developed their literacy and numeracy skills and are required to have a very good understanding of the sciences (especially Biology). It is a two year course which is assessed through 3 exam papers at the end of the two years. Students have an opportunity to develop knowledge of Psychology through a stimulating array of topics.
Paper 1: Social Influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology
Paper 2: Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research methods
Paper 3: Issues and Debates in Psychology, Relationships, Schizophrenia and Forensic Psychology
Students will be expected to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts/theories/research, apply their understanding in a range of contexts, and analyse, interpret and evaluate the concepts/theories/research. Student will also need to understand the purpose and steps involved in a range of psychological treatments/therapies and evaluate these in terms of their appropriateness and effectiveness. Knowledge and understanding of research methods, practical research skills and mathematical skills will also be assessed across all three exam papers.
Possible Careers:
As A Level Psychology supports the development of many skills, including critical thinking, communication and problem solving, it will help to prepare you for an exciting future and a wide prospect of careers. The most common subject studied at university after completing an A Level in Psychology include Psychology, English studies, Sociology, Forensic Psychology/Criminology, Business Studies, Nursing, Advertisement and Marketing, Human Resources, Teaching, Sport and Exercise Science and Law.
Further Reading:
Search for or click the links below to access articles/websites with useful and interesting information about psychology.
- BPS Research Digest – Check out the most recent research in psychology on the BPS Research Digest website.
- SimplyPsychology – Use these website for prior reading of the course content.
- AQA A-Level Psychology – Use this website to gain information on what the course consists of and how it is assessed.
Trips & Extra Curricular Club/Activities:
Interventions, trips, lectures and Psychology clubs are used to further students’ understanding of Psychology and to apply their knowledge. Modern research is share regularly with students to enable them to gain insight into Psychology in the real world