The Grammar School for Girls Wilmington

What is AS/A2 Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes.  It is primarily concerned with the investigation of what people do and why they do it.  Psychology gives us an insight into the influence of a persons environment on their behaviour, as well as the influence of biological factors such as genetics, the central nervous system, hormones and neurotransmitters.

How long is the course?

The full Advanced Level qualification is a two year course which consists of the AS course for one year and the A2 course for a further year.

What qualifications do I need?

GCSE mean score of 5.5, including English and Maths at Grade B or above.

What will I study?

Year 12 Modules (AS)

Module 1:

Cognitive Psychology (eyewitness testimony)

Development Psychology (day care)

Module 2:

Physiological Psychology (stress management)

Individual Differences (eating disorders)

Module 3:

Social Psychological (ethical issues in psychological research)

Research Methods (design, implementation and data analysis)

Year 13 Modules (A2)

Module 4:

What key skills will Psychology provide me with?

The study of Psychology A Level encourages the development of skills in comprehension, interpretation and analysis, as well as  the construction of balanced, logical and coherent argument.  That increased confidence and self-awareness will enhance students future education and career opportunities.

How will I be taught?

A range of approaches are used, including in-depth studies of previous research, student research, video, discussion and note-taking.  Learning objectives are set for each module and these may be assessed in a variety of ways, for example, essays, group presentations and research reports.  Students are expected to take part in discussions and do outside reading.  There is an increasing emphasis on them taking more responsibility for their own learning as the course proceeds.

What career and higher education opportunities are open to me?

Psychology is an excellent preparation for higher education as it develops the relevant skills necessary for success at this level.  Some careers follow directly from the study of Psychology, such as Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology and Occupational Psychology.  However, because Psychology helps to understand human behaviour and development, it is also considered to be a useful qualification in careers involving people such as education, health, social work, banking, the media and human resource management.

Students study 4 areas of Psychology, including:

Social Psychology, Physiological Psychology,

Developmental Psychology and Comparative (Evolutionary)

Psychology.

Module 5:

Individual Differences and Perspectives in Psychology

Module 6:

Coursework Planning and Reporting an Investigation

(2500 word assignment).