Curriculum Intent, Implementation and Impact for: ____Psychology_____

The purpose of our Psychology curriculum is to inspire pupils in the understanding of the mind and behaviour. We aim to secure strong academic outcomes alongside a discovery of new and thought-provoking areas of study. By exploring a wide range of topics, students can find areas of interest which will raise their confidence and encourage them to embrace a growth mind set. The Psychology curriculum involves students learning about key psychological approaches across history and considering the applications psychology has had to society. They will develop mathematical skills to allow them to analyse research and practical research skills through collecting the data themselves. Alongside learning a variety of new key terms and concepts, pupils will have to apply this knowledge and evaluate studies and theories. We are committed to ensuring all pupils have high aspirations and providing support and provision to ensure all can succeed. The KS5 Psychology Curriculum at Sir Roger Manwood’s is designed to promote independence in every learner, enabling them to reach their full potential, whilst preparing them for their future higher education and career choices.

The AQA Psychology specification that is followed encourages students to:

• develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
• develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
• develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills
• develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
• understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society

A Level Psychology (AQA)

The mind is something intangible that exists within our brain; an unseen process of enzymes, chemicals and electric currents. But why is it that some people suffer from stress or mental illness? Or that others are considered abnormal for deviating from social norms? Psychology looks at questions like these and more. It’s a fascinating science with cutting edge research that has real world applications that you are bound to find interesting.

What will I study?

In the first year of the course you will cover introductory topics to psychology and learn about conformity, social norms, how the mind remembers and forgets and how children form attachments. You will learn about characteristics of depression, OCD and phobia and how these are explained and treated. You will learn about different approaches to psychology and how to design and conduct your own experiments.

In the second year you will deepen your understanding of human behaviour. You will continue your studies into Approaches, Biopsychology and Research Methods. You will also look at further topics such as how do we develop gender identity, how stress affects the body and addiction.