Psychology at Kent College
Head of Psychology: Mr. A.P.McCarthy
Taught to AS Level from September 2012.
Psychology is the scientific study of human mind and behaviour. It is an exciting discipline to study because it addresses fundamental questions about the nature of the person. During the course we investigate many phenomena, including: why do we sleep? Why do we dream? Why are some people are different (abnormal)? Why do we obey and why do we join groups? Study also covers exciting, cutting edge research within Parapsychology (Anomalistic Psychology) covering areas such a near-death-experience (NDE).
Psychology can act as a crossover subject, bridging the gap between sciences and humanities, and should therefore suit students from all academic disciplines. In particular, it deserves to be considered by anyone thinking of a career in Medicine and/or the caring professions. Many degree courses in vocational subjects such as Marketing, Advertising, Business Studies and Sports Studies contain psychological elements. Likewise, there are links with subjects such as English, Art, Drama, Religious Studies and Biology in helping to understand the concept of human behaviour.
Display of psychological 'artefacts'.
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Course specification:
- encourage students to engage with the subject, by introducing new, contemporary topics
- generate practical classroom activities
- make conceptually demanding areas more accessible by setting them in context
- allow teachers to select a route through the optional topics that suits their students' interests.
AS outline (year 12):
At AS, candidates will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of psychology (social, cognitive, developmental, biological and individual differences) through a range of topics, chosen for their accessibility and popularity.
The AS specification includes:
Topic list
- Cognitive psychology, including memory and eyewitness testimony
- Developmental psychology, including early social development, attachment and the effects of day care
- Research methods, in the context of the topic areas.
Assessment
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Written Paper:
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1 hour 30 minutes
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Weighting:
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50% of total AS
25% of total A Level marks
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Structured compulsory questions based on Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods.
Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one 12 mark question requiring extended writing in which QWC (quality of written content) will be assessed.
Psychology Trips, Current, Planned & Planning
“I find Psychology an interesting subject because it provides an insight into people's behaviour in everyday life. I especially enjoy the areas of Sleep and Dreams, and I relish the opportunity of learning about these particular areas.”
Jane, Year 12
