Psychology is the study of the human brain and behaviour. The subject spans everything from the micro (neurons) to the macro (society). It doesn't matter if you don't know anything about Psychology before you choose to study it because the course will give you an introduction to the human mind. In a nutshell, Psychology is an intersection between philosophy and science. We cover lots of topics including the following:
Throughout the year, we examine how different studies have contributed to our understanding of the human mind and human behaviour, and research methods are another core part of the course.
Click here to watch Sophie Maxwell discuss Psychology with Jasper O'Neill and Leon Simpson-Fino.
Classes are interactive with lots of discussion. We examine case studies and key experiments, and often watch and analyse YouTube clips. We also do practical experiments (a brain dissection and eye dissection). You will also undertake your own research on a topic of your choice. In semester 2, you will conduct research in groups and collect and analyse your own data. We also go on various excursions throughout the year which help to deepen your understanding of the concepts we cover in class.
All students will be expected to watch summary videos and complete textbook questions on Edrolo outside of class to consolidate their learning. There is also an expectation that you create summaries in your own time outside of class. You will also need to prepare for SACs (create your own revision summaries, flashcards and notes).
Learning will be assessed in a variety of ways, such as media analyses, scientific posters, brain models, practical investigations and research reports. The SACs are quite frequent in Psychology to prepare you well for the pace of study in Year 12. In addition to a SAC for each topic, there will be two other tests for each topic to check your progress