GCSE Psychology

GCSE Psychology introduces students to the fundamental concepts and methodologies of psychology. It explores the human mind and behavior in various contexts, fostering critical analysis and independent thinking. Several exam boards offer GCSE Psychology, including AQA, Edexcel, and OCR. While the core content is similar, each exam board has its own specifications, assessment resources, and teaching materials.

Exam Boards

AQA

AQA GCSE Psychology (8182) aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles. Resources available include assessment materials, teaching resources, and planning guides.

Edexcel

Edexcel GCSE Psychology (9-1) focuses on applying psychological concepts to real-life issues. The curriculum explores key questions and encourages critical evaluation of research methodologies.

OCR

OCR GCSE Psychology (J203) emphasizes the development of subject knowledge and understanding through activities and assessment preparation. The specification covers a range of topics, including memory, psychological problems, and social influence.

Curriculum Overview

GCSE Psychology typically covers two main areas:

• Cognition and Behavior: This area explores topics such as memory, perception, language, thought, and developmental psychology.
• Social Context and Behavior: This area focuses on social influence, psychological problems, research methods, and the brain and neuropsychology.

Specific topics within these areas may vary slightly depending on the exam board. Students are expected to learn key psychological theories, research studies, and methodologies. They are also required to apply their knowledge to analyze and evaluate different psychological concepts. Past papers and mark schemes are available from each exam board to aid in exam preparation. Several textbooks and revision guides are also available to support students in their studies. For example, one YouTube playlist offers a series of videos covering various topics in OCR GCSE Psychology: