A Level Psychology

Course Overview

This course can either be studied at Wakefield College or Selby College.

Psychology is a popular and fascinating subject that seeks to explain human thoughts, cognition and behaviour. It explores various explanations for understanding human behaviour more explicitly and attempts to analyse why we act in the way we do through scientific method. For instance, why do some people develop mental illnesses? How do early relationships with our parents form the basis for future relationships? Why are some people willing to inflict pain on others when instructed to do so by an authority figure? If you enjoy analytical thinking and debate with an element of maths and science then this is the subject for you.

In classes you will learn through a variety of methods including: lectures, group work, independent work, university style activities, student presentations and discussions. You'll also be expected to conduct at least four hours of reading and independent study outside of lessons and complete regular homework tasks.

What You Will Study

In the first year you'll develop an understanding of Research Methods and develop a broad knowledge of some of the key ideas that underpin the discipline. In second year, you will build upon this and delve into explaining complex ideas and behaviours.

First year topics include:
Approaches in Psychology, Research Methods, Social Influence, Biopsychology, Psychopathology, Memory and Attachment

Second year topics include:
Gender, Schizophrenia, Addiction and Issues and Debates

• How You Will Be Assessed

  All units are assessed by examination and there is no coursework element.

  You will sit three papers at the end of the second year. These papers will contain at least 30% assessment of mathematical content and 'how science works'

  Year 2- To achieve the full A Level you will sit 3 exam papers at the end of the second year as follows.

  Paper 1- 96 marks 2 hours
  Paper 2- 96 marks 2 hours
  Paper 3- 96 marks 2 hours

  In exceptional circumstances there may be the opportunity to sit the AS in Psychology in 1 year.

• Entry Requirements

  5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4, including English Language

  PLUS

  Grade 5 in Maths OR Science.

• Further Study

  Many students who study A Level Psychology go on to university to study at degree level. Psychology is a popular subject and universities usually specify high grades at A Level as entrance requirements. Some universities also require you to have a Science subject at A level to show your scientific approach. You can also study related degrees.