Psychology AS/A2 Level (Specification A) Examination Board: AQA

Aims of CoursePsychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour. The aims of this course are to develop knowledge and understanding of psychological theories and research studies and to develop skills of analysis and evaluation. There is an emphasis on developing skills in Research Methods throughout the course.

Programme of Study at AS and A2 LevelGCE Psychology comprises 4 Units:

AS PSYCHOLOGY

PSYA11 Cognitive Psychology – Memory1 Developmental Psychology – Attachment1 Research Methods and Ethical Issues

PSYA21 Biological Psychology – Stress1 Social Psychology – Conformity, Obedience1 Individual Differences – Abnormality

AS Level: AS Psychology Specification A comprises two units. Unit 1 focuses on the topics of Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Research Methods. Unit 2 focuses on Biological Psychology, Social Psychology, and Abnormality.A2 Level: At A2, the specification brings together explanations from different psychological approaches and engages students in issues and debates in Psychology. Unit 3 covers Topics in Psychology – Biological Rhythms and Sleep, Social Relationships, and Intelligence and Learning. Unit 4 covers Schizophrenia, Media Psychology, and Research Methods.

Approaches to learning The specification will be delivered in a variety of ways including teacher-led methods using PowerPoint presentations and group work. Students will have the opportunity to conduct and participate in practical investigations throughout the course, thereby developing depth of understanding for the scientific procedure and associated ethical issues. It is expected that students will conduct wider reading to develop breadth of knowledge about this subject. Who is this course aimed at?This course is aimed at students who wish to understand the way that people think and behave, and who enjoy the rigour of science subjects. Psychology A Level combines well with many other subjects especially Biology, English Language, and Religious Studies. Students may progress onto higher education to study Psychology or related degrees. An A Level in Psychology will also provide entry to numerous other HE courses or employment.

Minimum entry requirement is grade B in Mathematics / Science at GCSEand grade B in English Language at GCSE.

W O O D L A N D S S C H O O L 2 011 S I X T H F O R M C U R R I C U L U M

E N H A N C E D BY S P E C I A L I S T T E C H N O L O G Y, M AT H S A N D C O M P U T I N G S TAT U S

A2 PSYCHOLOGY

PSYA31 Biological Rhythms and Sleep1 Social Relationships1 Intelligence

PSYA41 Psychopathology – Schizophrenia1 Psychology in Action – Media Psychology1 Research Methods