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AQA A-level Psychology Specification at a Glance

Tornike Asatiani - Co-founder & COO of Edumentors

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

PaperFocusFormatMarksPercentage of ASQuestion Structure
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in PsychologySocial Influence, Memory, AttachmentWritten exam, 1 hour 30 minutes7250%– 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 ContextApproaches in Psychology, Psychopathology, Research MethodsWritten exam, 1 hour 30 minutes7250%– 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

  1. Social Influence
  2. Memory
  3. Attachment
  4. Psychopathology
  5. Approaches in Psychology
  6. Biopsychology
  7. Research Methods
  8. 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

PaperFocusFormatMarksPercentage of A-levelQuestion Structure
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in PsychologySocial Influence, Memory, Attachment, PsychopathologyWritten exam, 2 hours9633.3%– 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 ContextApproaches in Psychology, Biopsychology, Research MethodsWritten exam, 2 hours9633.3%– 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 PsychologyIssues and Debates in Psychology and options from three option groupsWritten exam, 2 hours9633.3%– 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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