Syllabus

Psychology

Course outline

The IB Diploma Programme psychology course is the systematic study of behaviour and mental processes.

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 holistic approach reflected in the curriculum, which sees biological, cognitive and sociocultural analysis being taught in an integrated way ensures that students are able to develop an understanding of what all humans share, as well as the immense diversity of influences on human behaviour and mental processes. The ethical concerns raised by the methodology and application of psychological research are also key considerations of the IB psychology course.

The Diploma Programme psychology course is designed to allow for in-depth analysis, evaluation and consolidation of learning. The overall aim of the course is to give students a deeper understanding of the nature and scope of psychology. This course will be taught in an integrated way, as the different parts of the syllabus complement each other. This will allow students to make comparisons and evaluate different psychological theories and arguments.

Key features of the curriculum and assessment models

• The course is available at higher level (HL) and standard level (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 report of a simple experimental study that was conducted by the student in groups of between 2 and 4. This is internally marked by subject teachers and then externally moderated by IB examiners.

Suggested Yr 13 Programme of study for Psychology IB 2021/22 only