APPROACHES (PAPER 2 7182/2) 2025 PREDICTIONS
Predicted Exam Questions for the Approaches in Psychology Topic in AQA A-Level Psychology (2025)
After analysing past AQA A-Level Psychology exams (2017-2024) using the updated dataset, we can identify key patterns and trends for the 2025 Approaches in Psychology exam. Below are the most likely questions, expected mark allocations, and study strategies based on this new data.
Key Trends & Predictions for 2025
-
The Psychodynamic Approach has appeared in small-mark questions (2-7 marks) multiple times (2017-2024). Since it has never been a 16-mark question, it is a strong candidate for an extended essay in 2025.
-
The Biological Approach has appeared 5 times since 2017 but has never been a 16-mark question. Given its importance in psychology, it is likely to appear as an 8-12 mark question.
-
Learning Approaches (Behaviourism & Social Learning Theory) have appeared consistently (2019-2023) but were absent in 2024. This suggests they are likely to return as a major question in 2025.
-
Comparison of Approaches has been tested frequently (2017, 2021, 2023), making it a strong candidate for another comparison question in 2025.
-
Origins of Psychology was last tested in 2024 (4 marks) and previously in 2020 (16 marks). This suggests a shorter 4-6 mark question is likely in 2025.
Predicted 2025 Exam Questions & Marks
| Predicted Topic | Likely Mark Allocation | Reason for Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| The Psychodynamic Approach | 16 Marks | Has never been tested as a major essay question |
| The Biological Approach | 8-12 Marks | Last tested in 2024, likely to reappear |
| Learning Approaches (Behaviourism & SLT) | 8-12 Marks | Not tested in 2024, expected to return |
| Comparison of Approaches | 8 Marks | Frequently tested in past papers |
| Origins of Psychology | 4-6 Marks | Last appeared in 2024, likely to return as a short question |
Recommended Study Focus
1. Master Theories & Applications
- Focus on AO1 knowledge for psychodynamic, biological, and learning approaches.
- Use flashcards to revise key features and assumptions.
2. Perfect AO3 Evaluation Using PBW
- Point: One limitation of the psychodynamic approach is that it is difficult to test scientifically.
- Because: Many concepts, such as the unconscious mind, cannot be empirically measured.
- Why: This reduces the scientific credibility of the approach compared to biological explanations.
3. Practice 16-Mark Essays
- Focus on: Psychodynamic vs. Cognitive or Biological.
- Write full-length timed essays with structured evaluation.
4. Revise Comparative Questions
- Be prepared to compare humanistic vs. psychodynamic or biological vs. cognitive.
- Use comparison tables to highlight key similarities and differences.
5. Understand Research Methods
- Expect a small question linking research methods to approaches.
- Revise experimental design, validity, and ethics.
Final Thoughts
Using a data-driven approach to revision increases exam success by focusing on high-probability topics. This strategy will help prioritise revision and improve performance in the 2025 AQA A-Level Psychology exam.
Good luck with your studies!