Psychology Curriculum Intent

The GCSE Psychology course aims to ignite curiosity and provide students with a deep understanding of human behaviour, thought processes, and emotions. Through an exploration of various psychological theories, research methods, and real-world applications, this course will equip students with the analytical, critical thinking, and evaluative skills required to understand how individuals and groups behave in different contexts.

Curriculum Map

Curriculum Justification

A GCSE in Psychology provides students with a deeper understanding of human behaviour, mental processes, and the factors that influence them. This course fosters critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and an evidence-based approach to understanding various psychological concepts. It equips students with transferable skills such as problem-solving, research analysis, and effective communication. Furthermore, studying Psychology encourages empathy and ethical awareness, helping students to appreciate diverse perspectives and make informed decisions. This foundation is valuable not only for further studies in psychology but also for a wide range of careers in healthcare, education, business, and social sciences. 

Reading and Vocabulary

In GCSE Psychology, students focus on teaching vocabulary by breaking down key terms and using interactive activities such as flashcards and quizzes. Students are also encouraged to relate new vocabulary to real-life examples to improve their retention. For reading, students are guided through key texts and practice questions, emphasising on how to extract relevant information. They are also provided with strategies for understanding complex text, such as highlighting key points and summarising content.

Curriculum Development

The GCSE Psychology curriculum aims to develop students’ understanding of key psychological theories, research methods, and real-world applications. Topics include memory, human development, psychological disorders, social influence, and relationships. The curriculum encourages critical thinking through active learning, small-scale research projects, and assessments such as mock exams and unit tests. Students will explore ethical considerations in psychology and apply their knowledge through practical activities. Regular feedback and resources like textbooks, online platforms, and guest speakers will support continuous improvement, ensuring a comprehensive foundation in psychology. 

British values

GCSE Psychology links to British values by promoting respect for diversity, understanding individual rights, and encouraging mutual respect and tolerance. British values, such as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and respect for different cultures, are reflected in psychological theories that emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting individuals’ experiences and viewpoints. For instance, topics such as social influence, prejudice, and the impact of societal factors on behaviour help students appreciate the significance of fairness and justice in society. Additionally, studying mental health and wellbeing fosters a sense of empathy and respect for others’ experiences, reinforcing the value of treating everyone with dignity. Thus, the curriculum not only deepens students’ understanding of human behaviour but also supports the promotion of values that are fundamental to British society. 

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