GENDER (PAPER 3 7182/3) 2025 PREDICTIONS
Predicted Exam Questions for the Gender 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 Gender 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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Sex and Gender, Androgyny & Bem Sex Role Inventory has appeared several times in small-mark questions (2018, 2020, 2024) but has never been a 16-mark question. It could appear as an 8-12 mark essay in 2025.
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The Role of Chromosomes and Hormones in Gender Development was last tested as a major 16-mark question in 2022. It may return as a smaller 6-8 mark question.
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Cognitive Explanations of Gender Development was a 16-mark question in 2019 and appeared as 8-mark questions in 2022 and 2023. It is unlikely to return as a 16-marker but may appear as an 8-12 mark discussion.
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Psychodynamic Explanation of Gender Development has only appeared as small-mark questions (2017, 2019, 2023). Since it has never been a 16-mark question, it could feature as a long-form question in 2025.
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Social Learning Theory (SLT) & Influence of Culture/Media on Gender was a 16-mark question in 2021 and has appeared frequently in 8-mark questions (2023, 2024). It may return as a mid-range 8-12 mark question.
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Atypical Gender Development & Gender Dysphoria was a 16-mark question in 2017 and last tested in 2024 as an 8-mark question. Since it has not been tested as a major question for years, it is due for a return as a 16-mark discussion in 2025.
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Research Methods appeared frequently as small 2-8 mark questions (2017, 2018, 2021, 2024). A 4-6 mark question is expected in 2025.
Predicted 2025 Exam Questions & Marks
| Predicted Topic | Likely Mark Allocation | Reason for Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| Atypical Gender Development & Gender Dysphoria | 16 Marks | Last tested as 16 marks in 2017, due for a return |
| Psychodynamic Explanation of Gender Development | 16 Marks | Has never been tested as a 16-mark question before, making it highly likely |
| Social Learning Theory & Influence of Culture/Media | 8-12 Marks | Last tested as a 16-mark question in 2021, likely to return in a smaller format |
| Cognitive Explanations of Gender Development | 8-12 Marks | Previously a 16-mark question in 2019, likely to return in a mid-range essay |
| Sex and Gender, Androgyny & Bem Inventory | 8-12 Marks | Frequently tested in small-mark questions, could be a major essay question in 2025 |
| Role of Chromosomes and Hormones in Gender | 6-8 Marks | Appeared as a 16-mark question in 2022, may return as a smaller question |
| Research Methods | 4-6 Marks | Frequently tested in small-mark questions, likely to reappear in 2025 |
Recommended Study Focus
1. Master AO1 Knowledge
- Learn key theories of gender development (cognitive, psychodynamic, SLT).
- Use flashcards and comparison tables to revise gender explanations.
2. Perfect AO3 Evaluation Using PBW
- Point: One limitation of the psychodynamic explanation is its lack of scientific evidence.
- Because: The theory is based on Freud’s case studies, which lack empirical testing.
- Why: This reduces the validity of the theory as it is difficult to test its key concepts.
3. Practice 16-Mark Essays
- Focus on: Atypical Gender Development & Gender Dysphoria and Psychodynamic Explanation.
- Use structured AO1 and AO3 evaluation to develop balanced essays.
4. Compare Key Explanations
- Revise biological vs. cognitive vs. SLT explanations.
- Be prepared for comparison-based questions.
5. Revise Research Methods & Ethics
- Expect a small question on how research methods relate to gender research.
- Revise ethical implications of gender studies.
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!