MEMORY (PAPER 1 7182/1) 2025 PREDICTIONS
Predicted Exam Questions for the Memory Topic in AQA A-Level Psychology (2025)
Based on an analysis of past AQA A-Level Psychology exams (2017-2024), certain trends emerge regarding the topics and mark allocations in the Memory section. Below is a well-reasoned prediction of the likely questions and marks for the 2025 exam.
Predicted Topics for the 2025 Exam
1. The Working Memory Model
- Predicted question type: 8 or 16 marks (AO1 + AO3 evaluation)
- Why? This was last tested in 2022 (16 marks) and 2021 (8 marks) but has been absent in 2023 and 2024. Given its importance in cognitive psychology, it is highly likely to return as a major extended question.
- Example question: Outline and evaluate the working memory model. (16 marks)
2. The Multi-Store Model of Memory
- Predicted question type: 8-12 marks (AO1 + AO3 evaluation)
- Why? This topic has appeared several times, including 2023, 2022, and 2020. It is unlikely to be tested as a 16-marker, but a smaller essay-style question (8-12 marks) is possible.
- Example question: Discuss the multi-store model of memory. (8 marks)
3. Explanations for Forgetting
- Predicted question type: 6-8 marks (AO1 + AO3 evaluation)
- Why? This topic has been tested frequently, with major questions in 2021 (16 marks) and smaller ones in 2017, 2020, and 2024. If it appears, it will likely be a shorter AO1/AO3 evaluation question.
- Example question: Explain two explanations for forgetting. (6 marks)
4. Factors Affecting the Accuracy of Eyewitness Testimony
- Predicted question type: 12-16 marks (AO1 + AO2 application)
- Why? This topic was last tested as a 16-mark question in 2023 and as an 8-mark question in 2024. Given its importance in applied psychology, it may return in a different format, such as a scenario-based question.
- Example question: A witness to a robbery gives a statement to the police. Using psychological research, explain two factors that may affect the accuracy of the witness’s memory. (12 marks)
5. Research Methods/Ethical Issues
- Predicted question type: 6-8 marks (AO3 evaluation of research studies)
- Why? This has been tested frequently (2017, 2019, 2024), and the 2025 exam is likely to feature a small research methods-related question, particularly in relation to eyewitness testimony.
- Example question: Discuss one methodological issue in research on eyewitness testimony. (6 marks)
Likely Mark Allocations
Based on historical data, the 2025 Memory exam is likely to follow this structure:
- One 16-mark question (likely on The Working Memory Model or Eyewitness Testimony)
- One 8-12 mark essay question (possibly on The Multi-Store Model or Forgetting)
- One or two smaller 4-6 mark questions (likely on Research Methods or Ethical Issues)
How to Prepare Effectively
1. Master AO1 Knowledge
- Memorise key studies and definitions for each topic.
- Use flashcards and mind maps to consolidate key theories.
2. Perfect Your AO3 Evaluation (PBW Method)
- Follow the Point, Because, Why (PBW) format for evaluation:
- Point: One limitation of the working memory model is that it lacks ecological validity.
- Because: Most supporting research is based on lab experiments.
- Why: This means the findings may not generalise to real-life memory use.
3. Practise Application Questions
- Work through scenario-based questions, especially for eyewitness testimony.
- Apply knowledge to real-life situations.
4. Revise Research Methods
- Expect a question on experimental design, sampling, or ethics in memory research.
- Revise key research methods terms (e.g., validity, reliability, controls).
Final Thoughts
Although we cannot predict the exact questions, focusing on these high-probability topics and structuring your revision accordingly will significantly boost your exam performance.
Good luck with your revision, and stay focused!