ATAR Psychology
WA ATAR Psychology is an exciting course that explores theories of cognitive dissonance, social identity, and attribution, with reference to relevant psychological studies. The course is designed to engage students in experiential learning, allowing them to learn while “Do, Reflect, and Think and Apply.” This method of teaching has been shown to increase motivation and classroom engagement, which is directly related to intelligence, interest, and pleasure with learning outcomes. With real-world skills and a head start in reaching their career goals, students can apply their learning to improve mental health in Aboriginal communities, design cockpits for NASA, develop market research strategies, or train people in a variety of settings.
In this unit, students will be introduced to the scientific study of psychology and the various research methods used to investigate human behaviour. They will also learn about the different approaches to psychology, such as the biological, behavioural, and cognitive approaches. Students will explore the structure and function of the nervous system, as well as the role of genetics and the environment in shaping behaviour.
In this unit, students will learn about the development of the brain and behaviour over the lifespan, including the influence of nature and nurture on development. They will also explore the role of learning in shaping behaviour, including classical and operant conditioning, observational learning, and social learning theory. Students will also examine the role of memory in human behaviour, including the different types of memory and the factors that influence memory.
In this unit, students will explore the role of perception in human behaviour, including the different types of perception and the factors that influence perception. They will also learn about the different states of consciousness, including sleep, dreaming, and altered states of consciousness. Students will also examine the role of motivation and emotion in shaping behaviour, including the different theories of motivation and emotion.
In this unit, students will learn about the different types of mental disorders, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. They will also explore the different approaches to treatment, including psychotherapy and biomedical treatments. Students will also examine the role of stress in human behaviour, including the different types of stress and the factors that influence stress.
Studying ATAR Psychology can provide a strong foundation for a range of future university courses and jobs in the fields of psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience, and human resources.
General
Psychology is the scientific study of how people think, feel and act. Through this course students will gain valuable insights and understanding into both themselves and their wider world. Psychological and biological knowledge form the basis of personality, intelligence, morality, and communication development. This allows for systematic exploration into the complexities of human behaviour based on evidence gathered through planned investigations. Psychology is rigorous in its use of the Scientific Method.
Year 11
This unit provides a general introduction into personality and intelligence. Students research a number of influential theories and discover the impact culture and others have on behaviour. Different methods of data collection are outlined and ethical considerations applicable to psychological research are introduced.
This unit focuses on the stages of development of the brain and the role played by nature and nurture. Through research, students will explore the impact of factors influencing behaviour and the shaping of attitudes, values and beliefs. Students will analyse descriptive data in order to identify patterns and draw conclusions.
Year 12
This unit expands on the personality theories studied in Unit 1. Students will use this prior knowledge to explore how personality can shape motivation and performance. Different states of consciousness are introduced as students explore factors which determine friendships and conflict resolution.
This unit focuses on brain functioning and scanning techniques to demonstrate the link between the brain and behaviour. Popular theories such as Piaget’s Cognitive Development and Kohlberg’s Moral Development are explored. Continuing their understanding of psychological research students learn about the impact of environment on individuals using the study of behaviours observed in groups.
This subject should be considered for potential careers in Health, Education, Social Work, Psychology, Counselling, Law & Marketing
SCSA Links
Psychology-Y11-Syllabus-General-2016-GD_pdf.pdf (scsa.wa.edu.au)
Years 11 and 12 | Psychology (scsa.wa.edu.au)
Pre-requisites
Nil.
Contact Information
Ms Kerry Randall
Head of Science
Kerry.Randall@cewa.edu.au
