Subject Leader:Miss O Martin – omartin@knoleacademy.org
Exam Board: International Baccalaureate
Entry Requirements
Minimum of 5 9-5 grades in GCSE examinations including a grade 6 in English, Maths and Science
Intent
At the heart of our Psychology curriculum is the exploration of human behaviour—why we think, feel, and act the way we do. We aim to ignite students’ natural curiosity about the mind, empowering them to critically examine both their own behaviour and that of others. By studying the science of psychology, students will not only gain an understanding of psychological theories and concepts but also develop essential skills for thinking analytically and evaluating research.
Through the study of key psychological topics, including mental health, cognitive development, social influences, and the biological bases of behaviour, students will deepen their awareness of individuals and societies. Our curriculum encourages students to engage with both the history and evolution of psychological research, while also evaluating it in light of modern ethical considerations and real-world applications.
>We believe psychology offers essential insights for all aspects of life, from enhancing personal relationships to understanding societal issues. Our GCSE and IB Psychology courses aim to provide students with a scientific approach to studying human behaviour, while fostering critical thinking, self-awareness, and empathy towards others.
Students will develop their ability to interpret and conduct psychological research, using both qualitative and quantitative methods. This will prepare them for further academic pursuits and a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, social work, business, and beyond. Ultimately, our curriculum equips students to approach the complexities of human nature with curiosity, confidence, and compassion.
Implementation
We offer a dynamic and interactive Psychology curriculum designed to engage students and develop their understanding of human behaviour.
In Years 12 and 13, students follow the IB Psychology specification, consisting of 8 one-hour lessons per fortnight. The curriculum covers four content areas: Human Development, Health and Wellbeing, Cognition and Learning, and Human Relationships. Students explore these areas from various psychological perspectives including biological, cognitive, and sociocultural. They also design research, engage in class practicals, and build on their critical thinking skills.
Our teaching methods emphasise student participation, independent thinking, and collaborative learning. We ensure that every lesson builds towards exam readiness, with regular feedback, assessments, and revision opportunities. This approach equips students not only for success in their exams but also for a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behaviour in both personal and global contexts.
Impact
Studying Psychology at Knole Academy provides students with core insights into human behaviour, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and approach life with empathy. The skills developed, such as analytical thinking, research abilities, and self-reflection, equip students for success in a wide range of careers, including healthcare, sports, education, social work, marketing, and business.
Psychology also fosters personal growth by improving emotional intelligence, decision-making, and stress management, which are essential for both personal and professional development. The subject opens doors to further study in fields such as neuroscience, law, criminology, sports psychology, and sociology, providing a strong foundation for students’ future academic and career aspirations. Ultimately, our Psychology curriculum not only prepares students for exams but also equips them with lifelong skills to navigate and contribute to a diverse, ever-changing world.
Course Outline
Examination Information
Exam Board: International Baccalaureate
Qualification: Psychology Diploma
Assessment Objectives:
- AO1 – Knowledge and understanding
- A range of psychological concepts, contexts, theories, models and examples
- Biological, cognitive, and sociocultural approaches to understanding human behaviour
- Research methodology for understanding human behaviour
- AO2 – Application and analysis
- Explain and formulate arguments in response to a specific question or prompt using relevant/ appropriate concepts and psychological research
- Apply and analyse a range of psychological theories and models
- Apply and analyse knowledge relevant to psychology in a variety of contexts
- Interpret data to draw conclusions for experimental and non-experimental research
- AO3 – Synthesis and evaluation
- Evaluate psychological theories and research
- Draw conclusions from different types of evidence
- Justify a position and critique claims
- Discuss how psychological concepts interact
- Design a study to investigate a research question
- Draw conclusions about the influence of culture, motivation, and technology on human behaviour
Examination and Assessment:
Students are asked a range of questions across 3 tests requiring short answers, middle answers, and extended answers, sat in the summer term. This sits alongside an internally assessed piece of coursework.
Paper 1: Integration of the concepts, content, and contexts (25%)
1 hour 30 minutes. 35 marks.
Section A: two compulsory short-answer questions from two of the three content areas
Section B: two compulsory questions asking students to apply their knowledge of content to an unseen situation, each from one of four contexts
Section C: two concept-based extended response questions, each from a different context
Paper 2: Applying concepts and content to research contexts (25%)
1 hour 30 minutes. 35 marks.
Section A: four compulsory questions that focus on the class practicals
Section B: evaluation of an unseen research study with regards two or more concepts
Paper 3: Data analysis and interpretation of research data (30%)
1 hour 45 minutes. 30 marks.
Four source-based questions with quantitative and qualitative findings.
The focus of the questions will be from one of the HL extensions.
Future Courses and Possible Careers
Students with an IB Psychology qualification often go on to study a range of subjects at university such as:
- Psychology
- Biomedical Science
- Business and Management Studies
- Economics
- Education (Teacher Training)
- English
- Law
- Nursing
- Sociology
- Sports Psychology
- Sports Science
Careers related to Psychology include:
- Healthcare – psychiatrist, mental health nurse, neurosurgeon, therapist, counsellor, clinical psychologist
- Business – marketing and advertising, human resources, organisational psychologist, public relations
- Education – primary, secondary, or special needs teaching, child psychologists, educational psychologists, SENDCO
- Research – lecturing, planning and carrying out research, publishing articles, writing books
- Criminal Justice – barrister, paralegal, crime scene investigator, forensic psychologist, the police, the national crime agency, security services
- Sports and Wellness – physiotherapist, occupational therapist, sports psychologist, sports coach, health coach
Extra Resources
Extra Resources
- Psychology Subject Brief
- Themantic Education – YouTube Videos of a psychology teacher and examiner giving you invaluable advice and tips
Revision Materials
- InThinking – Online Textbook with everything you need to know
- Revision village: IB Psychology – Past Papers to practise and mark schemes to learn exactly what your examiners are looking for
- Quizlet – Online flashcards to all the key studies and theories you need to know