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IB Psychology

There are no formal pre-requisites for students undertaking Psychology. It is recommended that students have had experience of writing critical essays.

Aim
  • Encourage the systematic and critical study of: human experience and behaviour; physical, economic and social environments; and the history and development of social and cultural institutions.

  • To develop an awareness of how psychological research can be applied for the benefit of human beings.

  • Ensure that ethical practices are upheld in psychological enquiry.

  • Develop an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour.

  • Develop an understanding of alternative explanations of behaviour.

  • Understand and use diverse methods of psychological inquiry


Syllabus Component

Description

Core

The levels of analysis focus on the synthesis of three fundamental influences on behaviour: Biological, Cognitive, Sociocultural

Options

  • Abnormal psychology

  • Developmental psychology

  • Health psychology

  • Human relationships

Simple Experimental Study

Students plan and undertake a simple experimental study and produce a report of their study e.g. manipulate a single independent variable and measure the effect on a dependent variable, while controlling other variables.

Qualitative Research Methodology (HL only)

Research of behaviour in a natural setting followed by an attempt to interpret the behaviour and the meanings that people have given to their experiences.

 

Standard Level:

Internal Assessment: (25%)

A report of an experimental study conducted by the student.

External Assessment: (75%) Examinations at the end of the second year.

Paper 1 (2 hours) (50%)

Paper 2 (1 hour) (25%)

Higher Level:

Internal Assessment: (20%)

A report of an experimental study conducted by the student.

External Assessment: (80%) Examinations at the end of the second year.

Paper 1 (2 hours) (35%)

Paper 2 (2 hours) (25%)

Paper 3 (1 hour) (20%)


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