Curriculum Statement of Intent
KS4
The psychology curriculum is designed to develop an enquiring and inquisitive mind to engage in the modern world as a global citizen. Students will also develop their understanding of the human mind and behaviour in a scientific framework, which means that students will be equipped to successfully live in the contemporary world. For example, topics such as Health Psychology are particularly pertinent in a post-pandemic world to allow us to consider a variety of theories and explanations for differences in health-related behaviour.
Students will begin their psychology journey with an introduction to key concepts and definitions which can be used to explain human behaviour. This initial knowledge will utilise key concepts already learned in subjects such as citizenship, Religious Education and many more core topics and then be consolidated and built upon by looking at the different approaches which are used in the world of psychology. By considering the various psychological approaches, students will also be able to analyse the theories of different psychologists and critically evaluate the varying explanations of human behaviour, skills that will be essential in higher education and training. This knowledge and the skills taught at the start of the course will then equip students to conduct their own psychological research – another important and transferrable skill for further education and employment. It will equip students with the ability to investigate real life phenomena in an empirical manner and continually develop skills that can be used in higher education, the world of work and beyond.
Ever-relevant, students will explore mental health issues, developing a sense of sensitivity and empathy and creating excellent citizens able to function in modern society and support those around them. There are opportunities to build on personal experiences and cultural capital through developing a greater understanding of mental health issues through the study of psychopathology. Studying psychopathology will grow an ability to engage with a wide range of people with better understanding and compassion.
Useful websites for revision and additional support:
Online textbook via Teams
Hodder Revision Guide
Collins Revision Guide
Psychology library available in 1062 for wider reading
Psychboost – Mini videos which explain and recap the key topics and concept in Psychology. There are also A level videos if you want to challenge yourself!
BBC Future Psychology — Recent Psychology news and articles to keep you up to date. Reading around the subject will also help exposing you to key words used in the field.
Brainscape—Online flashcards and interactive flashcards to help you revise.
Useful websites for revision and additional support:
Online textbook via Teams
Hodder Revision Guide
Collins Revision Guide
Psychology library available in 1062 for wider reading
Psychboost—Mini videos which explain and recap the key topics and concept in Psychology. There are also A level videos if you want to challenge yourself!
BBC Future Psychology — Recent Psychology news and articles to keep you up to date. Reading around the subject will also help exposing you to key words used in the field.
Brainscape—Online flashcards and interactive flashcards to help you revise.
KS4
GCSE Psychology
Course Provider: AQA
Paper 1: Cognition and Behaviour (50%) Memory, Research Methods, Perception and Development
Paper 2: Social context and behaviour (50%) Social Influence, The Brain and Neuropsychology, Language, thought and communication,
KS5
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology
At Grace Academy Darlaston our curriculum intent for Psychology is to allow students to develop an enquiring and inquisitive mind. This will enable them to engage in the modern world as a global citizen through the understanding of the human mind and behaviour in a scientific framework. By considering the various psychological approaches students will also be able to analyse different theories and critically evaluate the varying explanations of human behaviour. Studying Psychology at Grace Academy Darlaston means that there are opportunities to build on personal experiences and cultural capital through developing a greater understanding of mental health issues through the study of psychopathology. This is particularly important due to the rapid social change that has occurred in recent years. The curriculum also intends to challenge, motivate and inspire a life-long interest in learning whilst being accessible to all students. Psychology gives students the opportunities to debate and put forward their opinions and understand how this may relate to the behaviours and actions of others around them. Psychology students also engage in enquiry-based activities to carry out a piece of psychological research. This allows students to develop confidence and become enthusiastic, ambitious, tolerant and resourceful adults who will make effective contributions to society through their scientific understanding of human behaviour.
Curriculum content
Qualification information
Exam board: Pearson.
There are 2 external units (examinations) and 2 internal units (coursework)
- Unit 1: Psychological Approaches and Applications (1.5 hour examination – 72 marks)
- Unit 2: Conducting Psychological Research (Internal unit)
- Unit 3: Health Psychology (2 hour examination – 70 marks)
- Unit 6: Introduction to Psychopathology (Internal unit)