Courses

Psychology

Faculty: Humanities
“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” Shakespeare (Hamlet)

Psychology involves the scientific study of individuals. It raises many interesting questions by focusing on individual differences and why individuals behave in certain ways. Students learn the core areas of Psychology: Cognitive, Social, Biological, Developmental, Individual Differences and Research Methods. Students on the course enjoy discussing and debating topical issues, read widely around the topics and enjoy essay writing to communicate the debate.

Key stage 5 content

Exam Board: AQA 

https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology/as-and-a-level/psychology-7181-7182

 

Entry requirements:

 

5 GCSE passes Grade 9-4

Essential - Science 5         English 5              Maths 5

Course Outline

The aim of the course is to:

  • develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
  • develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
  • develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills
  • develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
  • understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

 Assessment Details:

A-Level Psychology

Exam

% Grade

Paper 1: Introductory topics in Psychology (96 marks)

2   hours

33.3%
  •   Section A:    Social influence
  •   Section B: Memory
  •   Section C: Attachment
  •   Section D: Psychopathology

Paper 2: Psychology in context (96 marks)

2   hours

33.3%
  •   Section A: Approaches in Psychology
  •   Section B: Biopsychology
  •   Section C: Research methods 

Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology (96   marks)

2   hours

33.3%
  •   Section A: Gender
  •   Section B: Schizophrenia
  •   Section C: Forensic Psychology

 

Students must take all three A-level papers at the end of their final year of study. Exams consist of multiple choice questions, short questions and essays. In the A-level exam questions are to be worth a maximum of 16 marks.

Outside the classroom

Study days at London Universities and conferences.

Guest speakers: Psychiatrist explains what the job involves and how to become a Psychiatrist.

Progression pathways and careers:

Students are able to study A-level and then move on to college or university to follow psychology or related courses.

Many psychology graduates work in the public sector in a social or welfare role; others go into the public and private sector. Careers include Counselling, Psychologist, Social Work, Education and Research.

Useful links

http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology includes the specification and specimen papers

For Further Information Contact:

Eve O'Grady

ogradye@hendonschool.co.uk

Course Leader

Tamieka Sooknanan

Email: SooknananT@hendonschool.co.uk