Psychology IB Higher and Standard Level

Psychology IB (Higher and Standard Level)

PSYCHOLOGY (HL/SL)

International Baccalaureate

Campus: Cheadle and Marple (27.02.09)

This course is offered as part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. You will take 3 Higher Level subjects and 3 Standard Level subjects and complete components in Theory of Knowledge, Creativity Action Service and an Extended Essay.

Course overview

Psychology is the scientific study of human experience and behaviour. IB Higher Level Psychology involves the study of the biological, cognitive and socio-cultural influences on human behaviour. It will enable you to understand how qualitative and quantitative psychological research findings can be applied to benefit people. You will study abnormal behaviour such as eating disorders, anxiety states and depression (HL and SL). You will also investigate the psychology of human relationships and this will include explanations of aggression, attraction and altruism (HL only). You will be expected to show awareness of, and sensitivity to, cultural and ethical issues in your study of human behaviour.

How you will learn

You will learn through class discussion, group work and practical activities as well as lectures and individual research. You will also carry out an empirical study of your own and give short presentations. You will build on your prior knowledge of scientific method and the use of descriptive statistics.

How you will be assessed

External Assessment:

HL and SL:

Paper 1 will be a two hour examination which will require you to answer three short answer questions on the three levels of analysis and write one essay.

Paper 2 will assess your understanding of abnormal psychology by writing one essay (SL). HL students will also write an essay on the psychology of human relationships.

For HL only:

Paper 3 is a one hour examination designed to test your understanding of qualitative research methodology. You will be asked questions which are based on an extract from a study.

Internal Assessment:

For both SL and HL:

You will plan, undertake and report an experimental study. You will follow IB Psychology course ethical guidelines. HL students will also analyse data using an inferential statistical test.

Special entry requirements

Standard college entry criteria for I.B., normally 6 GCSEs at Grade B or above in appropriate subjects.

A grade A* or A in Biology or Double award Science is desirable.

What students say about the I.B.

The I.B. is challenging yet great fun it educates students for success beyond school or college

I think I.B. students are much better prepared for University, as they have good time management skills and really know how to learn

Other useful information

Psychology is one of the most popular subjects taught at the college. It is an excellent preparation for a range of vocational degrees including Medicine, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Nursing, Social Work, Education and Psychology.