Sixth Form Entry Booklet

42 PSYCHOLOGY Examination Board: AQA GCSE requirement: 6/7 in Mathematics and 6/7 in Biology with a minimum total of 13 and 6 in English Language or English Literature Psychology literally means the study of the mind and is an academic and applied discipline which involves the scientific study of human or animal mental functions and behaviours. The new A Level qualification offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. You will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by Higher Education and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. The subject encourages you to study and evaluate the methods and value of a variety of different aspects of psychological study. Psychology builds on skills developed in the sciences and humanities and enables progression into a wide range of other subjects. The A level is made up of some compulsory content and some options. There are three two-hour papers. Each topic is worth 24 marks. Paper 1 – Introductory Topics in Psychology (all topics are compulsory) • Social influence • Memory • Attachment • Psychopathology Paper 2- Psychology in Context (all topics are compulsory) • Approaches in Psychology • Biopsychology • Research methods Paper 3 – Issues and Options in Psychology Issues and Debates in Psychology is the compulsory topic in this exam. You will also sit questions on three other sections: • Gender • Schizophrenia • Forensic Psychology Mrs J Watson