Bolton School Sixth Form Boys
- To develop an increased awareness and understanding of the ‘main schools’ in Psychology and how they each interpret human behaviour.
- To develop understanding of the research methods psychologists use and an ability to apply these across a range of contexts.
- To develop your independent learning skills within the subject. To learn to draw conclusions based on evidence.
What will I study?
The AQA Psychology Specification offers an interesting and applied content which we anticipate students will enjoy.
You will develop a detailed understanding of various methods and approaches in Psychology and be able to apply your knowledge to a variety of topic areas such as Psychopathology, Schizophrenia, Forensic, Issues, Debates and Methods including Statistics in Psychology.
You will take part in practical activities which provide invaluable knowledge in order for you to be stretched and challenged academically which will support you in the attainment of higher grades.
How will I be assessed?
This specification is designed to be taken over two years with all assessments taken at the end of the course.
At the end of the two year course you will be assessed on three two-hour A-Level examinations.
Skills known as AO1 (Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures), AO2 (Application of Knowledge and Understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures) AO3 (Analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, ideas and evidence) will be measured and you will have the opportunity of gaining up to an A* grade on your final A-Level. There is no externally examined coursework at A-Level. Practical skills will be developed through class activities and the methods used will be taught through the experimental method, observations, interviews and other research methods. Ethical considerations and safe practice used in the real world of psychology will be fully explored. These skills, known as ‘How Science Works’ will be assessed throughout the units described above.
You should be enthusiastic, communicative and diligent. Some knowledge of Science and Biology is always helpful, especially as the discipline follows the scientific method in its research practice. 10% of the skills assessed at A-Level require Maths skills so a good grade in GCSE Maths is desirable.
How will I study?
Through a wide variety of methods including reading, debating, ICT, learning theory and carrying out practical work. It is important that you participate in independent learning and wider reading; watching relevant television programmes will also enhance your understanding of the subject.
Where will it lead?
Psychology has recently been reclassified as a science subject; therefore, the course may support applications to a range of scientific fields such as medicine, pharmacy and dentistry. Psychology, due to its broad content, has many applications in areas ranging from education, law, counselling, social work, industry, child care, media and public relations, plus many others.