Psychology

    AQA
    GCSE

    Specification: 8182

    Psychology explores why we think, feel and behave the way we do. From cognitive processes to social behaviour, you'll learn about key approaches, research methods and how to evaluate psychological studies.

    8

    Topics

    24

    Objectives

    0

    Exam Tips

    0

    Pitfalls

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    Key Features

    • Understand key approaches
    • Evaluate research studies
    • Apply psychology to real life
    • Analyse psychological debates

    Assessment Objectives

    AO1
    35%

    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological ideas, processes and procedures

    AO2
    35%

    Apply knowledge and understanding of psychological ideas, processes and procedures

    AO3
    30%

    Analyse and evaluate psychological information, ideas, processes and procedures to make judgements and draw conclusions

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    AQA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

    Specification Topics

    8 topics

    Perception

    3 objectives

    Development

    3 objectives

    Research Methods

    3 objectives

    Social Influence

    3 objectives

    Language, Thought and Communication

    3 objectives

    Brain and Neuropsychology

    3 objectives

    Psychological Problems

    3 objectives

    Memory

    3 objectives

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