AS Psychology
The AS course consists of 2 modules, each divided into 3 topics. It is designed to provide a broad base of understanding of Psychology. Each module is assessed by written exam through structured short answer questions, stimulus material and extended writing questions. There are two 90 minute papers, each constituting 50% of the total AS weighting or 25% of the total A-level mark.
Module 1 - Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods
Topics include: How does our memory work? How can we improve our memory? Can we trust the memory for use in Eye Witness Testimony? Is the bond between caregiver and child important? What are the effects of daycare? What methods can we use to test our theories? Are they ethical? Module 2 - Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences
Topics include: What happens to the body when it’s under stress? Do some people deal with stress better than others? How can we reduce stress? Why do people conform to the group even when they don’t agree with the group? Could you harm another is asked to? What makes someone disobey authority? What is normal? How does Freud explain abnormality? What other theories explain abnormality? How can we treat abnormal behaviour? Does electric shock treatment work? A2 Psychology
The Psychology A2 course consists of two modules assessed by written examinations. Each paper constitutes 25% of the total A-level mark and has essay style questions (although the longest piece of writing will be roughly 18 minutes!).
Module 3 - Topics in Psychology
Students develop knowledge, understanding and skills of analysis is the following topics:
Biological Rhythms, Sleep and Dreaming
Relationships
Aggression
Module 4 – Psychopathology, Psychology in Action and Research Methods
This module has 3 components:
1. To develop an understanding of Schizophrenia, Depression and Anxiety Disorders
2. To investigate and critically consider a contemporary application of Psychology for example:
· Media Psychology
· The Psychology of Addictive Behaviour
· Anomalistic Psychology
3. To extend and apply their knowledge of research methods and develop their understanding of the scientific method.