BIOPSYCHOLOGY (PAPER 2 7182/2) 2025 PREDICTIONS
Predicted Exam Questions for the Biopsychology 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 Biopsychology exam. Below are the most likely questions, expected mark allocations, and study strategies based on this new data.
Key Trends & Predictions for 2025
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Localisation of Function & Brain Plasticity has appeared as a 16-mark question three times (2019, 2022, 2024) and smaller questions in 2017 and 2021. Since it was tested in 2024, it is less likely to appear as a 16-mark question again, but may feature as an 8-12 mark question.
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The Biological Rhythms topic was last tested as a 16-mark question in 2024, meaning it is unlikely to appear again at that level but may return as a 6-8 mark question.
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Ways of Studying the Brain was last a 16-mark question in 2021, making it due for a return in 2025, either as a 12-16 mark question.
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The Structure & Function of Neurons and Synaptic Transmission has appeared in multiple small-mark questions (2017, 2019, 2020, 2021) but has never been tested as an extended question. It could appear as an 8-12 mark question.
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The Fight or Flight Response was last tested in 2024 (2 marks) and previously in 2017 (4 marks), 2022 (6 marks), meaning it could return as a shorter 4-6 mark question.
Predicted 2025 Exam Questions & Marks
| Predicted Topic | Likely Mark Allocation | Reason for Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| Ways of Studying the Brain | 12-16 Marks | Last major question was in 2021, likely to return |
| The Structure & Function of Neurons | 8-12 Marks | Frequently tested in small-mark questions, due for a larger essay |
| Localisation of Function & Brain Plasticity | 8-12 Marks | Last tested in 2024 (16 marks), could return in a different format |
| Biological Rhythms | 6-8 Marks | Last tested in 2024 (16 marks), may return as a smaller question |
| The Fight or Flight Response | 4-6 Marks | Tested in multiple years, likely to appear as a small question |
Recommended Study Focus
1. Strengthen AO1 Knowledge
- Memorise key brain structures, neuron functions, and ways of studying the brain.
- Use flashcards to recall definitions and processes.
2. Perfect AO3 Evaluation Using PBW
- Point: One limitation of fMRI scans is that they have poor temporal resolution.
- Because: They measure blood flow rather than direct neural activity.
- Why: This means they do not provide real-time brain activity analysis, limiting their accuracy.
3. Practice 16-Mark Essays
- Focus on: Ways of Studying the Brain and Localisation of Function.
- Use past paper questions to write full-length, timed responses.
4. Master Applied Questions
- Revise biological rhythms and synaptic transmission in real-world contexts.
- Be prepared for scenario-based questions.
5. Revise Research Methods & Ethics
- Expect a small question on research methods related to biopsychology.
- Revise ethics in neuroscience and experimental designs.
Final Thoughts
By focusing on these high-probability topics, students can maximise their exam performance and feel confident going into their 2025 AQA A-Level Psychology exam.
Good luck with your revision!