AQA A-Level Psychology – 7182
Course Leader: Alison Randle – alisonrandle@kba.uk
Department Leader: Mrs A. Randle
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
GCSE Science at Grade 5 or higher and/or GCSE English at Grade 6 or higher.
Students should have an interest in understanding the complexities of human behaviour, a critical mindset and a desire to explore psychological research across a range of topics. A basic understanding of human physiology and statistical analysis will be useful, as several topics focus on the body's responses and the significance of data collected through psychological research.
WHAT WILL I DO?
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour, exploring emotions, motivations and thought processes in both human and animal behaviour.
It investigates how human actions and judgements are described, explained and treated across different contexts, including cognitive, social and clinical psychology. Students explore psychological theories and research, using a range of techniques such as observations, experiments, interviews and psychological testing.
The course encourages you to explore different theories in relation to real-life experiences and assess their value. You will develop your ability to analyse research, evaluate evidence and consider different explanations for behaviour.
You will also develop critical thinking and research skills through extended written responses, learning to construct balanced arguments and evaluate the strengths and limitations of psychological research.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The AQA A-Level Psychology course is divided into three main areas of study.
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology
You will explore four key areas of psychological research:
- Social Influence: Conformity, obedience, minority influence and social change.
- Memory: How memory works, explanations for forgetting and eyewitness testimony.
- Attachment: The development of relationships between infants and caregivers and the effects of early experiences.
- Clinical Psychology and Mental Health: Psychological explanations, diagnosis and treatments relating to mental health.
Paper 2: Psychology in Context
This paper explores the foundations of psychological theory and research.
Topics include:
- Approaches in Psychology: Different perspectives and explanations of behaviour.
- Biopsychology: The relationship between the brain, nervous system, hormones and behaviour.
- Research Methods: How psychological research is designed, conducted, analysed and evaluated.
You will develop an understanding of how psychologists investigate behaviour and how research findings can be interpreted.
Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology
This paper explores wider debates within psychology and three optional topic areas.
Issues and Debates
You will consider important questions surrounding psychological research, including ethical issues, the nature of human behaviour and the influence of culture and society.
Optional Topics
Students study one topic from each of the following groups:
- Group 1: Relationships, Gender, or Cognition and Development.
- Group 2: Schizophrenia, Eating Behaviour, or Stress.
- Group 3: Aggression, Forensic Psychology, or Addiction.
These options allow students to explore specific areas of psychology in greater depth.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
AQA A-Level Psychology is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13. Each paper lasts two hours and contributes one-third of the final A-Level grade.
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology
- 2 hours
- 96 marks
- 33⅓% of the final A-Level grade
Paper 2: Psychology in Context
- 2 hours
- 96 marks
- 33⅓% of the final A-Level grade
Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology
- 2 hours
- 96 marks
- 33⅓% of the final A-Level grade
Examinations include multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions and extended written responses.
Throughout the course, students develop their knowledge and understanding of psychological theories, research methods and evidence. They learn to apply their knowledge to different situations, analyse findings and evaluate explanations of behaviour.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A-Level Psychology provides an excellent foundation for further study and careers involving people, behaviour, development and mental health.
Students may progress to university courses and careers in areas such as:
- Psychology
- Clinical and Counselling Psychology
- Mental Health and Healthcare
- Social Work
- Education and Teaching
- Human Resources and Business Management
- Research and Behavioural Science
- Criminal Justice and Forensic Psychology
Psychology is valuable in any career that involves interaction with others or an understanding of human behaviour. The analytical, communication, research and critical-thinking skills developed through the course are highly valued by universities and employers.