Page 45 - Seaford Sixth Forms Option 2025 Entry

Psychology A Level (AQA)
Head of Department:
Mrs A Yates
Teaching Staff:
Mrs A Yates
Mr K Rich
Overview
Psychology is the study of the mind and behaviour. Research in
Psychology seeks to understand and explain how people think,
act and feel. Psychologists strive to learn more about the many
factors that can influence thought and behaviour, ranging from
biological influences to social pressures.
Course Content
Topics include:
Social influence
Memory Attachment
Psychopathology
Approaches in psychology
Biopsychology
Research methods
Issues and debates in
psychology
The course structure is:
Paper 1: Introductory topics
in psychology (2hrs, 33.3%)
Paper 2: Psychology in
Context (2hrs, 33.3%)
Paper 3: Issues and options
in psychology (2hrs, 33.3%)
Expectations
You will need to:
be willing to have your
opinions and values
challenged
be willing to listen to and
take on board new ideas
and novel arguments
be able to see both sides
of an issue, not reject one
side simply because you
believe initially that it is
wrong
study independently to
consolidate class work –
an essential requirement
Students need to be able to
learn a considerable amount
of new terminology and
content, including research
studies. Research methods
is a third of the A Level
exam so it is important to
recognise this an important
element of the course.
Future Pathway
An A Level in Psychology is
a very useful subject for any
career where you interact
with people. Occupations
such as journalism,
nursing and marketing
all welcome trainees who
have studied Psychology. If
you are considering Higher
Education, Psychology can
be an invaluable subject.
Although Psychology is
a science, it sits on the
boundary of Science and
Arts subjects and combines
elements of both.
Key Skills
You will have developed skills
in data handling, analysis,
evaluation and writing
skills which are transferable
to both university and
employment.
Recommended Entry
Requirements
Grade 6 at GCSE English,
Combined Science and
Maths.
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