2. Questions About the Core Studies (FAQs)
- I cannot find the answers to the question(s) on the assignments.
All questions are taken from previous examination papers. The answers will either be in your course textbook or in the materials (such as the PowerPoints) in the relevant module on Canvas. You will not be asked a question that you cannot answer. Make sure that you have studied all relevant parts of the course.
You can search for core studies online too as there are lots of good Psychology websites on the internet.
You may also find it helpful to look under Announcements for messages about helpful additional websites online.
- How long do my answers need to be?
For 2-mark questions, you should write approximately three sentences or more depending on what the question is asking. You can only achieve the second mark by expanding or explaining your answer. Aim to be writing for 2-3 minutes per answer.
For 9/10-mark questions on AS assignments you should write a mini-essay – so this means writing for about 12 minutes and producing at least three good sized paragraphs.
Often it is useful to use the PEC method – make a Point/issue, support with an Example/evidence from a relevant study, then make a Comment/evaluation point that links back to the issue of the question. Do this three times.
For AL answers, you will often need to focus very carefully on research methods and give details of how you could conduct a study (usually 8 marks) or discuss a particular issue (usually 8-10 marks). For the latter, the PEC method may still work. For any questions involving research methods, you should think of it as giving a recipe to a reader, instructing them how to conduct the research (what, where, who, when, how etc.) These types of answers should take about 10 minutes, whereas 10-mark discussions should take approximately 13 minutes.
The key to good answers is demonstrating to the examiner that you have the relevant knowledge and understanding of the subject, so it is vital that you include psychological material (even when giving an example, you should make it relevant to Psychology). Make sure too that you have clearly answered the question.
- I am struggling to understand a core study, what can I do?
Firstly, read the textbook version of the study, then look at all of the Canvas materials where fuller explanations are usually offered. If you are still struggling, do a Google search and have a look at how the study is explained on other Psychology websites and if you still don’t understand, then email your tutor for help. You should be developing your independent study skills whilst on the course.
- Do I need to know all of the core studies?
The simple answer is yes. You need to know every detail about the method/design/sample/procedure/findings/conclusions etc., and any relevant evaluation points. Both AS examination papers are based on the core studies.
- Do I need to remember all of the material on research methods, approaches, issues and debates?
Yes. This underlies everything that psychologists do and how and why they do it. All of the examination papers will contain some questions where the use of this material will be vital. It is a really good idea to be constantly revising it as you progress on both the AS and AL courses.