Curriculum

The AQA GCSE Psychology course aims to ensure that all students:

• Master psychological vocabulary: Develop a strong grasp of specialist terminology and concepts to actively participate in psychological enquiry.
• Gain self and social awareness
• Understand both self and others, learning how psychological insights explain everyday social interactions and phenomena.
• Understand research methodologies: Develop a clear understanding of how psychological research is conducted, including the scientific methods and data analysis that underpin it.
• Think critically and reflectively: Learn to present information, construct arguments, and draw conclusions based on evidence, fostering reflective and independent thinking.
• Engage with ethical and social issues: Understand the relationship between psychology and broader personal, moral, social, and cultural issues, while exploring ethical considerations within the field.
• Appreciate psychology’s societal impact: Recognize how psychological knowledge contributes to understanding individual and societal diversity, and how psychology can address real-world challenges.

At Moorside, the GCSE Psychology course provides students with a unique opportunity to explore key psychological theories, concepts, and research that help them better understand themselves and those around them. Psychology encourages students to delve into human behaviors, examining their roots and motivations, which fosters smoother interpersonal interactions and enhances emotional intelligence.

By equipping students with knowledge and skills in psychology, the course supports the development of the whole child, making it a popular choice for students and valued by future employers. Through critical investigation and hands-on research, students develop analytical skills that are applicable in various personal and professional contexts.

1. Psychological terminology: Students will confidently define and apply key psychological terms and concepts.

2. Research methods: They will learn to plan, conduct, and analyze psychology research, enhancing their understanding of scientific inquiry.

3. Famous studies: Students will study landmark psychological studies, gaining insight into their significance and ongoing impact.

4. Critical analysis: Learners will critique theories and research with a balanced, evidence-based approach, fostering a well-rounded understanding.

5. Application of psychology: Students will apply psychological knowledge to explain and interpret real-world phenomena.

6. Critical thinking: Developing the ability to think critically about psychological concepts, recognizing biases, and evaluating evidence objectively.

7. Independent learning: Encouraging home study, self-directed learning, and the use of online resources, including access to psychology textbooks.

8. Study skills: Students will practice effective study techniques and time management strategies, building habits for lifelong learning.