Cambridge International AS & A Level Psychology 9990 (for examination from 2024)
Skills Exercises
Introduction
Cambridge International AS & A Level Psychology attracts a variety of learners from many different backgrounds. For some learners Psychology is a new subject and an opportunity to explore an area of study that interests them, while developing
a set of transferable skills. Other learners have previously studied Psychology and are looking to continue developing their knowledge of the subject. Either way, the study of Psychology allows learners to challenge relevant issues in psychological
theory and research and gain the knowledge needed to understand how psychology can be applied to improve people’s lives and society in general.
Skills and why they are important
Skills are the key to success. The performance of candidates in Cambridge International AS & A Level Psychology exams have shown a range of areas where improvement would be helpful. These areas of improvement tend to centre around the three assessment objectives (AOs) of the course:
Knowledge and understanding (AO1)
Application (AO2)
Analysis and evaluation (AO3)
Skills Exercises include topic specific exercises with suggested classroom activities and teaching approaches, such as group work and class discussion. Worksheets and possible answers are available for each activity. This resource focuses on some of the syllabus content and does not cover all possible aspects of the examinations.
How will these skills be developed?
Skills Exercises aim to help learners develop skills in:
using knowledge and understanding of terminology, studies, theories and concepts to answer examination questions
applying psychological knowledge and understanding to a range of scenarios from everyday life and theoretical scenarios
using skills of analysis and evaluation to recognise strengths and weaknesses of evidence and reach conclusions about arguments based on evidence.
Skills Exercises provide suggestions so you can have confidence that the materials you prepare and use in the classroom are building skills and resilience in your learners. This document should be used alongside the other teaching and learning resources provided on the School Support Hub.
