Specialist School

 Mathematics and Physics

Thornhill College Girls' Grammar School
Adveniat Regnum Tuum

"Educating concerned, informed, adaptable members of the world community"

Thornhill College, Culmore Road, Derry

Psychology

Introduction

Psychology is a popular A-level subject at Thornhill College and an increasing number of our A-level pupils are continuing to study Psychology-related courses at University.

The word "psychology" is of Greek origin : "psyche" can be translated as "mind" or "soul" and "logos" indicates the study of teaching style. Psychology therefore means the "study of the mind". At the end of the 19th century, the German Psychologist Wilhelm Wundt opened the first psychology laboratory in Leipzig; the beginning of psychology as a scientific discipline in its own right. Prior to this, psychology had generally been regarded as a branch of philosophy and, as such dates back to the time of Aristotle and Plato.

In the last 100 years, psychology has shifted from being a study of the mind to the scientific study of human and non-human animal behaviour. Psychologists study the reasons why people or members of other species behave as they do.

A-level Psychology is an excellent introduction to the study of human behaviour and can lead to a range of interesting careers and courses of further study.

At Thornhill College, pupils study the AS and A-level Psychology syllabus of the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) examining body.

The AS qualification can be used as either :

• a final qualification, taken after one year's study in Year 13, or
• as the first half of an A-level qualification.

The A-level qualification is in two parts:

• AS level (50% of the total award) taken at the end of Year 13,
• a second examination, called A2 (50% of the total award) taken at the end of Year 14.

PSYCHOLOGY COMBINATIONS

Psychology can be combined with a number of different subjects. In particular, Biology, English, Mathematics (Statistics), Health & Social Care.

The aims of the AS and A-level courses are:

• an introduction to selected aspects of psychological theory and research,
• opportunities to develop critical skills of analysis, interpretation and evaluation,
• opportunities to explore how psychology has contributed to an understanding of individual, social and cultural life,
• an awareness of the ethical responsibilities of psychological researchers,
• an opportunity to develop skills appropriate to the implementation of psychological research.

Apart from being a fascinating subject, there are at least five reasons why an A-level in Psychology is worth having

1. It will help you gain a 'life skill' : a better understanding of your own behaviour, as well as other people's.

2. It is recognised by universities and employers as an academic A-level and so a good grade in it is as useful as a good grade in any other academic subject. half of all medical schools accept Psychology as an A-level science for admission.

3. It can be regarded as both an arts and a science subject, so you get the benefit of both worlds.

4. It has a practical component, which means you will gain useful experience of conducting your own research and gathering your own data.

5. It is good preparation for a vast array of jobs or further training. Someone taking up any career which involves dealing with people would benefit from having studied some Psychology.

What Makes a Successful Psychology Student?

Interest in people
A curiosity about what makes yourself and other people 'tick'. Look out for newspaper articles that may be relevant - eg the difference in exam achievements for boys and girls, bullying, the effect of mass media on society, eating disorders...etc (the list is virtually endless).

Willingness to participate
Get the most out of tour course by offering your ideas and opinions and contributing to discussions. Also, listen to others and be genuinely receptive to their opinions. Even teachers change their minds in response to new evidence and experiences.

Ability to write effectively
Psychology involves writing essays and producing written accounts of practical work. The ability to write coherently and accurately is vital for success on the course.

Effort and initiative
Psychology is a fairly demanding A-level; it is by no means an 'easy option' as some may think. Success depends on sustained hard work. Take an active role in your own learning. Don't simply file your notes away when you have completed a topic; read over the main points and make a revision summary.

CAREERS

Psychology is relevant to various careers. In particular:

Teaching
Educational Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Counselling
Occupational Psychology
Health Psychology
Forensic Psychology
Environmental Psychology
Human Resource Management
Sports Psychology
Art/ Music Therapy
Psychiatric Nursing
Hypnotherapy
Social Work
Ergonomist
Speech Therapist
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