Group 3 - Psychology HL & SL
Why Study Psychology?
Since the Psychology course examines the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour, it is well placed in group 3, individuals and societies. Students undertaking the course can expect to develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated, developed and applied. This will allow them to have a greater understanding of themselves and appreciate the diversity of human behaviour.
The IB Psychology Course
In the DP psychology course, students will develop knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, content and contexts, as well as the models and theories associated with these areas. Through the course, students will develop the ability to engage in critical thinking, assess evidence and acknowledge the evolving nature of knowledge. They will acquire the ability to seek fresh information and generate understanding by employing research methodologies.
The goal of the DP psychology course is not to create psychologists, but to promote psychological literacy. This is done by:
- understanding basic concepts and principles of psychology.
- understanding the scientific research process
- having the ability to problem-solve
- applying psychological principles to personal, social, or organizational problems
- acting ethically
- thinking critically
- communicating well in different contexts
- having cultural competence and respecting diversity
- possessing self-awareness.
Entry Requirements
Higher and Standard Level Psychology option, you should score at least a Grade 6 in IGCSE English First Language as well as a solid understanding of analysis and critical thinking. Students are expected to explore and read in their own time to deepen their understanding of the content being taught.
In Psychology, all students are expected to be:
- Open mindedness
- Respectful
- Independent learners
- Curious
- Passionate and committed
- Resilient
Structure of the course
-
- The course is available at higher level (HL) and standard level (SL).
- The minimum prescribed number of hours is 240 for HL and 150 for SL.
- Students are assessed both internally and externally.
- External assessment for SL students consists of two written papers. For HL students there are three written papers.
- Internal assessment for SL and HL students is to write a psychology research proposal to investigate a topic of choice in relation to a specified population of interest.
Standard Level (SL)
|
Content |
% of total grade |
|
|
Paper 1: 1 hr 30 min |
Section A: two compulsory short answer questions from two of the three content areas Section B: two compulsory short answer questions asking students to apply their knowledge of content to an unseen situation, each from one of the four contexts. Section C: two concept-based extended response questions, each from a different context. |
35% |
|
Paper 2: 1 hour 30 min |
Section A: four compulsory questions that focus on class practicals Section B: evaluation of an unseen research study with regards to two or more concepts. |
35% |
|
Internal assessment |
A psychology research proposal to investigate a topic of choice in relation to a specified population of interest. |
30% |
Higher Level (HL)
|
Content |
% of total grade |
|
|
Paper 1: 1 hour 30 min |
Section A: Two compulsory short answer questions from two of the three content areas Section B: Two compulsory short answer questions asking students to apply their knowledge of content to an unseen situation, each from one of the four contexts. Section C: two concept-based extended response questions, each from a different context. |
25% |
|
Paper 2: 1 hour 30 min |
Section A: four compulsory questions that focus on class practicals Section B: evaluation of an unseen research study with regards to two or more concepts |
25% |
|
Paper 3: 1 hour |
Answer 4 source based questions with quantitative and qualitative findings.stagnant questions about a stimulus. |
30% |
|
Internal assessment |
A psychology research proposal to investigate a topic of choice in relation to a specified population of interest. |
20% |