Psychology
Unit 1 & 2
Course Description
Psychology is the study of the mind and behaviour in both humans and animals, including the biological structures and processes that underpin and sustain both. Students can develop an understanding of themselves and their relationships with others and their society through the study of psychology.
Unit 1: How are behaviours and mental processes shaped?
Human development involves changes in thoughts, feelings and behaviours. In this unit students investigate the structure and functioning of the human brain and the role it plays in the overall functioning of the human nervous system. Students explore brain plasticity and the influence that brain damage may have on a person’s psychological functioning. They consider the complex nature of psychological development, including situations where psychological development may not occur as expected. Students examine the contribution that classical and contemporary studies have made to an understanding of the human brain and its functions, and to the development of different psychological models and theories used to predict and explain the development of thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
Outcomes - On completion of this unit students will be able to:
describe how understanding of brain structure and function has changed over time, explain how different areas of the brain coordinate different functions, and explain how brain plasticity and brain damage can change psychological functioning.
identify the varying influences of nature and nurture on a person’s psychological development, and explain different factors that may lead to typical or atypical psychological development.
investigate and communicate a substantiated response to a question related to brain function and/or development, including reference to at least two contemporary psychological studies and/or research techniques.
Assessment Tasks:
Test on the brain and how it functions
Media response on the application of the biopsychosocial model to anxiety
Report of student-directed research investigation related to brain function or psychological development
Unit 1 Exam
Unit 2: How do external factors influence behavior and mental processes?
A person’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours are influenced by a variety of biological, psychological and social factors. In this unit students investigate how perception of stimuli enables a person to interact with the world around them and how their perception of stimuli can be distorted. They evaluate the role social cognition plays in a person’s attitudes, perception of themselves and relationships with others. Students explore a variety of factors and contexts that can influence the behaviour of an individual and groups. They examine the contribution that classical and contemporary research has made to the understanding of human perception and why individuals and groups behave in specific ways.
Outcomes - On completion of this unit students will be able to:
compare the sensations and perceptions of vision and taste, and analyse factors that may lead to the occurrence of perceptual distortions.
identify factors that influence individuals to behave in specific ways, and analyse ways in which others can influence individuals to behave differently.
design and undertake a practical investigation related to external influences on behaviour, and draw conclusions based on evidence from collected data.
Assessment Tasks:
A portfolio of practical activities on sensation and perception
A media response on social cognition and social influences on behaviour
Report of a practical investigation designed and conducted by students relating to external influences on behaviour
Unit 2 Exam
Booklist requirements:
Jacaranda Psychology 1
Included in School Bundle
Resources/Requirements:
School laptop provided in School Bundle
2 x A4 Exercise Book
2 x display folder
Cost
Melbourne Museum - $10
Artvo - $25
Career Bullseye:
If you enjoy or are good at this learning area, you can explore these occupations.
These career options include: Welfare worker, Youth worker, Social worker, Psychologist, Sociologist, Teacher, Counsellor, Police officer