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Shenley Brook End School

Shenley Brook End School

Psychology

Intent

Psychology is a subject built on the wish to know more about yourself and others. An inquiry into research, theories and evidence. Why do we behave differently in a group? How are memories constructed?  How does the biology of the brain drive behaviour?  What is the meaning of dreams? Psychology is a subject that gives an understanding of how to function effectively in the real world; to understand why we behave as we do and how to communicate and work with others in wider society. The department aims to help students develop a love of learning in understanding how the mind can influence human behaviour as well as developing our students into well rounded active citizens.  

Students will developin an understanding of self and others, and how psychological understanding can help to explain everyday social phenomena. They will understand how psychological research is conducted, including the role of scientific method and data analysis and be able to present information, develop arguments and draw conclusions through a critical approach to psychological evidence, developing as reflective thinkers. Students will develop an understanding of the relationship between psychology and personal, moral, social and cultural issues, and develop an understanding of ethical issues in psychology. Finally they will develop an understanding of psychological issues, the contribution of psychology to individual, social and cultural diversity, and how psychology contributes to society. 

The Social Sciences department works by the principle that every individual student may achieve personal excellence. The department continues to develop students understanding of people and the different worlds in which they live, we develop students understanding of the influence of the natural environment on human activity by studying the diversity of people from historical and contemporary perspectives. 

 

Further Information

 

The Team/Facilities

The teaching team consists of specialist members of staff in both of our areas Psychology and Sociology. We are as a team committed to spreading the enjoyment of what are our two favourite subjects! We are a well-resourced department with interactive white boards, resources for wider reading and last but by no means least our active teaching style. 

 
Key Stage 4

Psychology is about understanding humans. Psychologists are interested in learning about the human mind and behaviour. It involves lots of questioning and investigation and looking at things from different perspectives. 

There are two exam papers for this subject and no coursework. Paper 1 is mainly taught in year 9 and Paper 2 in year 10. In year 11 the main focus will be exam preparation and revision. 

 

More information can be found by visiting www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/by-subject/psychology or contact Mrs L Samadi. 

 
Sixth Form

In the exam students will be expected to: 

  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories, research studies, research methods and ethical issues 
  • apply psychological knowledge and understanding of the specified Paper 1 content in a range of contexts  
  • analyse, interpret and evaluate psychological concepts, theories, research studies and research methods 
  • evaluate therapies and treatments including in terms of their appropriateness and effectiveness. 

Social Sciences offer Psychology and Sociology at A level. Both follow the AQA syllabus respectively. 

The topics covered include social influence, memory, attachment, schizophrenia, research methods, gender, aggression and approaches. 

A significant number of students go onto higher education to continue with Social Sciences related subjects including Law with Criminology, forensic criminology, English with Sociology, teaching, sports psychology, social work, police, nursing, counselling, etc. 

More information can be found by visiting the AQA page for Psychology, alternatively contact Mrs L Samadi.