Page 40 - Seaford Sixth Form Options Booklet 2021

Psychology A Level (AQA)
Head of Department:
Mrs A Yates
Teaching Staff:
Mrs A Yates Mr K Rich
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%)
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.
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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