Complete OCR GCSE Psychology specification revision resources. Tailored syllabus coverage with topic breakdowns, quizzes, and practice questions.
Overview
OCR GCSE Psychology offers a fascinating exploration of the human mind and behaviour, guided by real-world examples and engaging research. You will study six core topic areas—Criminal Psychology, Development, Psychological Problems, Social Influence, Memory, and Sleep and Dreaming—learning about key theories, classic studies, and their practical applications. The course emphasises how psychology can explain and address everyday issues, from why people commit crimes to how children develop their thinking.
A standout feature of this specification is its strong focus on research methods. You will not only learn about famous experiments but also develop essential scientific skills: designing your own investigations, analysing data, and evaluating research ethically. This hands-on approach builds a foundation for further study in psychology and equips you with critical thinking skills valued in many careers.
The course is structured into two clear components. Component 1 examines the six topic areas through psychological theories, studies, and applications. Component 2 delves deeper into the methods psychologists use, giving you the tools to understand how research is planned, conducted, analysed, and critiqued. This integrated structure helps you see the bigger picture of how psychological knowledge is built and applied.
Why Choose OCR for Psychology?
Distinctive and engaging topics: Unlike some other exam boards, OCR includes unique areas like Criminal Psychology and Sleep and Dreaming, which students often find highly relevant and motivational. These topics link directly to real-world professions such as forensic psychology and health science.
Strong emphasis on research methods: OCR dedicates an entire paper to research methods, giving you rigorous training in how psychological studies are carried out. This develops transferable skills in critical analysis, data handling, and scientific inquiry that are excellent preparation for A-levels and beyond.
Clear and straightforward assessment: With only two exams of equal weighting and no coursework, the assessment structure is transparent and manageable. You know exactly what to expect, and the blend of question types allows you to demonstrate both knowledge and deeper understanding.
Assessment & Exam Structure
The OCR GCSE Psychology qualification is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 90 marks, accounting for 50% of the GCSE. There is no coursework or practical assessment. Paper 1, 'Studies and Applications in Psychology', covers the six core topics (Criminal Psychology, Development, Psychological Problems, Social Influence, Memory, and Sleep and Dreaming) through a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended-writing questions. Paper 2, 'Research Methods', focuses on designing, analysing, and evaluating psychological research, drawing on material from the core topics. Both papers are externally marked and taken at the end of the course.
Specification Topics
- Criminal Psychology
- Development
- Psychological Problems
- Social Influence
- Memory
- Sleep and Dreaming
- Research Methods
- The brain and neuropsychology
Top Exam Board Tips
- Ensure you can 'tell the story' of the two core studies (Wilson et al. and Braun et al.) including background, method, design, sample, materials, procedure, results, conclusions, and criticisms.
- Be prepared to link memory theory to the brain and neuropsychology, as this is an embedded theme.
- Understand how to apply memory concepts to real-world scenarios like advertising.