Psychology

We offer Eduqas Psychology A Level. This is a two-year qualification which enables you to experience an interesting, diverse and coherent course of study.

Throughout the course there is heavy emphasis on the acquisition of independent study skills. It is important to be able to use and apply knowledge in a challenging way, rather than relying solely on factual recall or note learning.

This WJEC Eduqas A level specification in Psychology is stimulating, distinctive and attractive, providing exciting opportunities for the learners to:

Study a variety of historical and current psychological approaches

Study classic and contemporary psychological research covering a variety of perspectives and topics

Study principles of investigating human and animal behaviour

Apply psychological information to everyday situations

Explore contemporary issues raised in psychological research

Work scientifically through their own psychological research

Demonstrate greater emphasis on the skills of psychology.

This specification encourages learners to:

Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of psychology and how they relate to each other

Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods in psychology

Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills

Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for psychology, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject

Understand how society makes decisions about psychological issues and how psychology contributes to the success of the economy and society.

Our students are expected to participate in open and frank discussion activities, which build confidence and understanding. Critical awareness and thinking are vital; an open but analytical mind is essential.

The A level is challenging in its demands for time and effort - but its content holds a high level of interest and is widely considered rewarding and relevant on a personal level. Independent learning is essential and often proves an asset for progress into Higher Education or vocational opportunities.

Assessment Pattern

From September 2015 there is a new qualification for A Level Psychology. A-level exams and

certification for this specification are available for the first time in May/June 2017 and then every May/June for the life of the specification.

This is a linear qualification. In order to achieve the award, students must complete all exams in

May/June in a single year. All assessments must be taken in the same series.

Psychology is a useful subject to have at A Level and readily combines with many others. It also gives a

recognised qualification in an area of academic growth and application. Although it is not a requirement to take Psychology at A Level if you wish to study it at University it does provide an ideal foundation upon which to build.

10% of the overall assessment of Psychology will contain mathematical skills equivalent to Level 2 or above. 25–30% of the overall assessment will assess skills, knowledge and understanding in relation to research methods. Due to this we are requiring all students have Maths GCSE at grade 5 or above, along with the previously mentioned 5 grade in English or a Humanities subject.

Scheme of Assessment

Component 1:

Psychology: Past to Present

Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes

33⅓% of qualification

100 marks

Compulsory questions relating to five psychological approaches, classic pieces of research evidence and a contemporary debate.

Component 2:

Psychology: Investigating Behaviour

Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes

33⅓% of qualification

100 marks

Principles of research

Compulsory questions on how psychological investigations are carried out (including social and developmental psychology).

Personal investigations

Compulsory questions based on two investigative activities carried out prior to the assessment.

Application of research methods to a novel scenario

Compulsory questions requiring a response to a piece of research.

Component 3:

Psychology: Implications in the Real World

Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes

33⅓% of qualification

100 marks

Applications

A choice of three structured questions from six on psychological behaviours.

Controversies

One question from a choice of two requiring a synoptic exploration of psychological controversies.

Overall Entry Requirements:

6 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including an English and Maths.

Course Specific Entry Requirements:

GCSE grade 5 in a Humanities subject or grade 5 in an English and grade 5 in Maths.

Psychology is extremely valid as a ‘vocational’ qualification and can lead into many careers.