As stated in the subject brief, the content for the new psychology course comprises the three approaches – biological, cognitive and sociocultural – and research methodology. It is important that students are able to apply any of these to each of the four contexts. On Paper 1, Section A contains two compulsory short-answer questions assessing knowledge of content from two of the three content areas (approaches). The context itself will not be stated in the question, and students are free to apply the content to any context.
Students will need to give an example, but it does not need to be a psychological study. It can be a theory or a relevant example from life. Whatever example is used, it has to be completely focused on answering the question. Extra details of studies are not needed.
Possible questions, therefore, could be:
Biological Approach: Describe the role of genetic inheritance in one human behaviour.
Possible behaviours: A mental health disorder or health problem, cognitive development, interpersonal relationships
Cognitive Approach: Explain dual-processing theory with reference to one example of human behaviour.
Possible behaviours: Diagnosis of a mental health disorder or health problem, cognitive development, one cognitive process.
Sociocultural Approach: Describe one cultural dimension and its role in understanding one human behaviour.
Possible behaviours: Cultural differences in prevalence of a mental health disorder or health problem, in the development of self, group behaviour.
There are only 4 marks available for each question, so answers do not need to be longer than approximately 150 words. This is about half the length of short-answer responses in the current curriculum.
The contexts contain mainly familiar material from the options in the current curriculum, so gradually you will find that you are coming to terms with the new structure and way of working. Have fun!
Psychology Sorted 