Psychology GCSE

Summary:

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour. It is about people and about how they behave, so is useful in almost every aspect of life. This course looks at five psychological approaches, each illustrated by two topic areas.

Course Code: S0734 Course Length: One year Entry Requirements:

Normally at least four GCSE passes at grade D. You do not need any previous knowledge of the subject.

Full Description:

These approaches are ‘Social’ – obedience and non-verbal communication, ‘Developmental’ – attachment and cognitive development, ‘Individual Differences’ – atypical behaviour and the self, ‘Cognitive’ – memory and perception and ‘Biological psychology’ – criminal behaviour, sex and gender. In addition there is a separate unit 'Research methods in Psychology'.Methodology, ethics and cultural diversity are taught alongside relevant topics. Students must have an organised approach to study and a good memory.

What will you learn on this course?
This course introduces students to the scientific study of mind and behaviour, as well as showing how psychology can be applied to everyday life. It provides an appropriate background for study beyond GCSE in AS/A Level Psychology, as well as for other courses where some psychological knowledge is relevant. Psychological knowledge is made up of a number of approaches; this syllabus looks at five of these, each illustrated by two topic areas.
How will you be assessed?
There are two 1 hour 15 minute examinations at the end of the course which make up 80% of the final mark allocation. The other 20% is a one hour exam based on research methods.

What other courses go well with this one?
Psychology can be studied alongside any other GCSE courses, both arts and sciences.

What will you need to buy?
There is a recommended textbook which students are expected to buy.
What could you go on to do at the end of the course?
You could study further using the GCSEs you obtain, as the entry requirement for a higher level of study, or use your GCSE qualifications in your application for paid employment

How can you find out more about the subject?
If you want to find out a bit more about the subject , you might like to dip into:Berryman, J., Hargreaves, D., Howells. K., Ockleford, E. & Wilbur, D.J.(2006) Psychology and You: An informal Introduction (3rd edition) BPS Blackwell, or look on the BBC Science and Nature website which has a section called ‘What is Psychology?’.

Please contact the Advice Shop for details of costs and start dates.

Please note that although the information given is believed to be correct at the time of publication, course information, costs where applicable and attendance details may change.

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