What is this subject and why should I study it?
Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour. The topics in Edexcel GCSE Psychology are phrased as key questions. Through the qualification content structure, students are encouraged to answer these questions from a psychological perspective. All topics ask students to explore and investigate the question and consider why psychology matters.
The five topics are all key contemporary debates in society today and include relevant and contemporary scientific research.
The content provides a platform to explore current debates such as nature–nurture, ethical issues and comparisons to see how psychology has developed over time and differs between various cultures. There is a deliberate focus on what psychologists do and the specification enables students to consider the implications of psychology for society.
- Topic 1: Development – How did you develop?
- Topic 2: Memory – How does your memory work?
- Topic 3: Psychological problems – How would psychological problems affect you?
- Topic 4: The brain and neuropsychology – How does your brain affect you?
- Topic 5: Social influence – How do others affect you
- Topic 6: Criminal psychology – Why do people become criminals?
- Topic 9: Sleep and dreaming – Why do you need to sleep and dream?
- Topic 11: Research methods – How do you carry out psychological research?
How is the course assessed?
This course is fully examined, with no coursework.
Paper 1 – Written Paper – 1 hour 45 minutes – 09 marks – 55%
Paper 2 – Written Paper – 1 hour 20 minutes – 79 marks – 45%