A-levels - Students

AQA A-level Psychology Specification at a Glance

Elleen February 17, 2024

Embarking on the AQA A-level Psychology journey marks the beginning of an intriguing exploration into the human mind and behaviour. This rigorous academic pathway is structured to deepen understanding, analytical skills, and the scientific underpinnings of psychology. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of the AQA A-level Psychology course, detailing the subject content, assessment structure, and the linear progression designed to equip students with a holistic understanding of psychological principles.

A-Level Psychology – An Overview

The AQA A-level Psychology course is linear, meaning assessments for the AS and A-level are taken at the end of their respective courses. This structure allows for a focused and in-depth study of each topic area.

AS-Level Psychology – Subject Content

Social Influence
Memory
Attachment
Approaches in Psychology
Psychopathology
Research Methods

AS-Level Psychology Assessment Overview

Paper	Focus	Format	Marks	Percentage of AS	Question Structure
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology	Social Influence, Memory, Attachment	Written exam, 1 hour 30 minutes	72	50%	– Section A: Multiple choice, short answer, and extended writing (24 marks)<br>- Section B: As above for different content (24 marks)<br>- Section C: As above for new content (24 marks)
Paper 2: Psychology in Context	Approaches in Psychology, Psychopathology, Research Methods	Written exam, 1 hour 30 minutes	72	50%	– Section A: Multiple choice, short answer, and extended writing (24 marks)<br>- Section B: As above for different content (24 marks)<br>- Section C: As above for new content (24 marks)

A-Level Psychology – Compulsory Content

Social Influence
Memory
Attachment
Psychopathology
Approaches in Psychology
Biopsychology
Research Methods
Issues and Debates in Psychology

Optional Topics

Option 1: Relationships, Gender, Cognition and Development
Option 2: Schizophrenia, Eating Behaviour, Stress
Option 3: Aggression, Forensic Psychology, Addiction

A-Level Psychology Assessment Overview

Paper	Focus	Format	Marks	Percentage of A-level	Question Structure
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology	Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology	Written exam, 2 hours	96	33.3%	– Section A: Multiple choice, short answer, and extended writing (24 marks)<br>- Section B: As above (24 marks)<br>- Section C: As above (24 marks)<br>- Section D: As above (24 marks)
Paper 2: Psychology in Context	Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology, Research Methods	Written exam, 2 hours	96	33.3%	– Section A: Multiple choice, short answer, and extended writing (24 marks)<br>- Section B: As above (24 marks)<br>- Section C: As above, double emphasis (48 marks)
Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology	Issues and Debates in Psychology and options from three option groups	Written exam, 2 hours	96	33.3%	– Section A: Multiple choice, short answer, and extended writing (24 marks)<br>- Section B: Option 1 topic (24 marks)<br>- Section C: Option 2 topic (24 marks)<br>- Section D: Option 3 topic (24 marks)

Preparing for Success

Success in AQA A-level Psychology demands a blend of memorisation, understanding, and application. Students are encouraged to engage deeply with each topic, utilise a variety of revision techniques, and practice past paper questions to hone their exam technique. Collaboration with peers, seeking support from educators, and utilising a range of resources, including textbooks and online platforms, can also enrich the learning experience and enhance understanding.

Embarking on the AQA A-level Psychology course is not just about preparing for exams; it’s about embarking on a journey of discovery about human behaviour, mental processes, and the factors that influence them. It’s a pathway that offers profound insights into the complexities of the mind and prepares students for a wide range of future careers, from clinical psychology to marketing.

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