PSYCHOLOGY
A LEVEL
Course Overview
Psychology is concerned with all aspects of behaviour and with the thoughts, feelings and motivations underlying that behaviour. Psychology is a science and psychologists study human (and animal) behaviour by observing, measuring and testing, then arriving at conclusions that are rooted in sound scientific methodology.
The course looks at important aspects of human life; relationships, stress, memory, aggression, and mental health issues such as depression, schizophrenia or anxiety.
By studying this subject you will be provided with the knowledge to explain human behaviour and it will give you appreciation of individual differences that exist in society.
welcome Video
Target Audience
It is naturally suited to those who have a genuine interest in people and who want to understand more about the causes of behaviour. We explore a number of areas of human behaviour in an attempt to explain them. Given the competing explanations of why people “do what they do” the best students are those with an “open mind” and a willingness to read around the “key issues” discussed.
To study Psychology successfully you will need to be inquisitive, good at working both independently and in groups, a willingness to discuss and challenge key psychological approaches, plan and take part in debates and be highly committed.
Entry requirements
Psychology is a demanding subject. For this reason you will need:
Grade 5 or above in English Language
Grade 5 or above in Mathematics
Grade 55 or above in Combined Science
Year 12 Units
Unit 1: Introductory topics in psychology
In this Unit students will learn about the introductory subjects in Psychology.
Firstly they will look at Social influences and the influence of groups on individuals behaviour through concepts such as conformity and obedience.
In the Memory module students learn about the different models of memory, types of memory, why forgetting occurs and the application of this to the accuracy of eyewitness testimony.
During Attachment the course will focus on the infant-caregiver interactions and if disruption of this can affect development in later life.
Finally in Psychopathology students will look at the validity of definitions of abnormality. Then study three prevalent mental disorders in the UK (Depression, OCD and phobias), focusing on the explanations for their development and the treatments available.
Unit 2: Psychology in context
In this second unit students will study the fundamental approaches in Psychology, starting with the foundations of psychology as a separate branch from philosophy and its development as a science in its own right.
Biopsychology focuses on the link between our biological mechanisms such as the endocrine system and its effects in human behaviour, for example the flight or fight response.
Research Methods underpins all elements of the Psychology course. Students will learn the importance of taking a scientific approach in Psychology research.
Year 13 Units
Unit 3: Options in psychology
This is a mixture of compulsory content and optional modules that have been selected.
The first compulsory module is Issues and Debates, which focus on the major discussions within Psychology. These include nature vs nurture, determinism and the ethical implications of conducting socially sensitive research in Psychology.
In Cognitive Development, we look at how cognitive abilities such as accommodation and assimilation, develop in children and how this underpins educational practices. We also look at autism, social cognition, the exciting world of mirror neurons and Theory of Mind research.
In the Aggression topic we look at the differing opinions of the causes of aggression and the application of this to media violence, and whether or not it should be restricted
For the Schizophrenia option model students learn about the development of this highly distressing mental disorder. We look at the the competing theories from the different psychological approaches and the different treatments they recommend, assessing their effectiveness.
sample lesson
example work
Student testimonials
I really enjoy Psychology. The lessons are exciting and interesting, there is something for everyone. Throughout the whole course the Psychology department have given a lot of support with understanding concepts and revision techniques.
Mia
I really enjoy Psychology as it gives you the opportunity to study a subject that you never would have done in secondary school. The support system is great with after school revision sessions to help you further understand the topics and practise exam technique.
Mackenzie
In Psychology we are consistently given practise questions which are marked. We are always given extensive feedback for this challenging and enjoyable course.
Josh
What will my psychology lessons be like?
The Psychology department at MSN Sixth Form are dedicated to working with students to get the A Level results they deserve. For this reason we aim to make Psychology lessons informative, active and enjoyable. As a Psychology student you will be required to carry out independent research, do extended reading, have group discussions and debates, as well as carry out and evaluate your own psychological research.
We provide high quality resources, exam advice and support.
Support sessions
Mr Netto runs a revision session every Monday afternoon.
Students can also purchase revision guides from the department.
We as teachers are always available via email, and we have an extensively resourced google classroom which students have access to.
examples of Higher Education Progression Routes
who studies psychology at university?
Over 75,000 students were studying this subject in 2019/20.
72% of graduates went directly into employment.
This is a picture of the 'social science wall of fame' in UT1. It has the names and courses of all of the students who have gone on to do social science related degree courses since 2016. We encourage our students to think carefully about the degree courses they are going on to. Often suggesting they ensure they do a placement year as part of their degree course. This will improve future employment chances.