New GCEs for 2008
GCE Psychology A (2180)
Units 3 and 4 – January 2010 and beyond
(Examinations Update 3)
Specification amendment
Section 3.3 on Theories of intelligence in the specification subject content has been amended.
The change is side barred.
Introduction
Introducing AQA's new specification for Psychology A for AS and A Level.
This new specification has been designed to:
- encourage students to engage with the subject, by introducing new, contemporary topics
- generate practical classroom activities
- make conceptually demanding areas more accessible by setting them in context
- allow teachers to select a route through the optional topics that suits their students' interests.
The following information and specification outline will enable both practising Teachers and Subject Heads to be better informed and supported in the teaching of this subject, particularly if attending one of AQA's Teacher Support meetings.
Classification Codes
Every specification is assigned a national classification code indicating the subject area to which it belongs. The classification code for this specification is 4850.
Centres should be aware that candidates who enter for more than one GCE AS/A level qualification with the same classification code will have only one grade (the highest) counted for the purpose of the School and College Performance Tables.
Centres may wish to advise candidates that, if they take two specifications with the same classification code, universities and employers are very likely to take the view that they have achieved only one of the two GCE AS/A levels. The same view may be taken if candidates take two GCE AS/A level specifications that have different classification codes but have significant overlap of content. Candidates who have any doubts about their subject combinations should check with the university to which they wish to progress or company they wish to join, before embarking on their programmes.
Assessment Objectives
AO1 - Recognise, recall and show understanding of scientific knowledge, select, organise and communicate relevant information in a variety of forms
AO2 - Analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge, apply knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations, assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific information
AO3 - Describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques and processes, know how to make, record, and communicate valid observations, analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate the methodology and investigative activities in a variety of ways.