Skip to content
    Psychology A-Level

    Schema

    What Schema means in Psychology A-Level, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Schema

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Schema in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    A mental framework of beliefs developed through experience that organises information, allowing rapid cognitive processing but also distorting interpretations.
    AQA · Approaches in Psychology (study guide)
    A mental packet of knowledge, constructed by the child rather than taught, used to organise and interpret experience.
    AQA · Cognition and development (study guide)

    Topics that use Schema

    Related terms

    Using Schema in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Psychology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Psychology A-Level terms