Evidence-Based Teaching in AQA A-Level Psychology: Strategies, Questions & Free Resources
Teaching AQA Psychology is deeply rewarding — but also intellectually demanding for both students and teachers. With complex theories, heavy content, and multiple assessment objectives (AO1, AO2, AO3), effective delivery must be grounded in evidence-based teaching.
In this guide, we explore:
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What evidence-based teaching means in the AQA Psychology context
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Key strategies aligned with the latest research
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Resources, questions, and specifications
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Where to find free support, worksheets, and trackers
Whether you're refining your lesson planning or preparing for a drop-in, this post will give you research-backed confidence.
What Is Evidence-Based Teaching?
Evidence-based teaching refers to strategies that are proven through research to improve student outcomes. Rather than relying on tradition or anecdotal experience, teachers use methods supported by studies — like those from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) and cognitive science.
In psychology teaching, this is especially powerful. We teach the science of learning — so it makes sense our teaching methods mirror what works.
How Does This Apply to AQA A-Level Psychology?
The AQA Psychology A-Level specification is rigorous. To maximise student progress, evidence-based teaching should focus on these core areas:
1. Retrieval Practice
Helps students transfer knowledge from short-term to long-term memory. Use low-stakes quizzes, REK tasks (Recent Existing Knowledge), and flashcards.
Example: “Name one behaviour measured in the Strange Situation and explain its significance.”
Try this: Attachment Mastery Workbook
2. Spaced Repetition
Review content across weeks — not in one go. Helps avoid cognitive overload and improves recall during exams.
Download our Spaced Revision Planner – Free
3. Dual Coding
Blend text with images (mind maps, timelines, flowcharts) to enhance understanding.
Use our Dual Coding Template – Free Download
4. Live Feedback + Metacognition
EEF research shows students make greater gains when feedback is immediate and they reflect on it.
Use:
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Mastery Checkpoint Sheets
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Green pen reflection time
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Teacher cold call and class feedback before second attempts
Where Can I Find Evidence-Based AQA Psychology Resources?
Here are trusted sources aligned with both the AQA Psychology A Level specification and evidence-based practice:
| Resource | Type | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Yum Yum Mama Mastery Workbook | Paid | Includes retrieval tasks, trackers, reflection |
| AQA Specification PDF | Free | Essential for mapping learning intentions |
| AQA Research Methods Past Papers | Free | Great for teaching evidence gathering skills |
| Simply Psychology | Free | Explains studies with AO1/AO3 focus |
| Save My Exams | Mixed | Condensed notes, worksheets, and exam-style questions |
Evidence-Based Teaching AQA Psychology PDF
Want a quick reference? Here's what your own resource might include:
✅ Retrieval starter tasks
✅ Spaced planner template
✅ Challenge cards or past paper questions
✅ Cold call questioning route map
✅ Self/peer marking tracker
✅ AQA Psychology Spec summary (with codes)
You can create your own or adapt the Yum Yum Mama Tracker Pack, which already includes most of these elements.
FAQs
Q: Is AQA Psychology evidence-based itself?
Yes — the course is designed around classic and contemporary research. Teaching it with research-backed pedagogy creates a perfect loop.
Q: What’s the best evidence-based strategy for lower-ability students?
Live feedback and dual coding are consistently effective, especially when paired with chunked activities.
Q: Can I get evidence-based teaching AQA Psychology resources for free?
Yes! Download free trackers, planners, and templates here.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about improving results and reducing your planning time, evidence-based teaching isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
And you don’t need to start from scratch. Whether you want to build a workbook or just need ready-to-go worksheets, Yum Yum Mama has you covered.
Start here:
Attachment Mastery Workbook & Tracker Pack
Free Psychology Downloads
