IB Prospectus 2027 - Flipbook - Page 22
Psychology (available at HL and SL)
Psychology fascinates many of us as it is the study of human and animal behaviour
and experience. Topics include health and wellbeing, human development, human
relationships, learning and cognition, and research methodology. Each topic is explored
from biological, cognitive and social perspectives. Key concepts such as ethics, bias,
change and causality will also be discussed. You will develop your psychological literacy
and ability to think critically about data analysis and interpretation. Teaching and learning
include lectures, discussions, conducting primary research and group presentations.
You will be assessed on your knowledge, application, synthesis and evaluation of
psychological research and theories. No prior study of Psychology is expected.
At Higher Level, you will also investigate the role of culture, motivation and technology on
human behaviour.
All students will be assessed by writing a Psychological Research Proposal (IA) based
on one of four research methods used in the class practicals. You will develop skills in
planning, justifying and discussing your research methodology, data collection, and
expected outcomes of your research proposal. You will also suggest an additional method
to further investigate your research question.
Example IAs include:
• An experiment on the e昀昀ect
of anchors on cognitive
processing in young people
• An interview with students
about social media use and
self-esteem
• An observation of group
behaviour in a social setting
• A questionnaire
investigating human
relationships
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Course Essentials
History
Global Politics
Psychology
HL
SL
HL
SL
HL
SL
Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard
Standard
IA weighting
20%
25%
20%
30%
20%
30%
Yr Y2 teaching split
50/50
50/50
50/50
50/50
50/50
50/50
Levels Available
Entry Requirements
University courses
and careers
International Relations, Civil Service, eg Foreign O昀케ce, Development Work,
Psychology, Neuroscience, Criminology, Criminal Justice Service, Education
