How to Teach AO2 in AQA Psychology: Lesson Ideas & Examples
AO2 — Application of Knowledge and Understanding — is often the most challenging assessment objective for students in AQA A-Level Psychology. While students may memorise definitions and evaluations (AO1 and AO3), applying theory to unfamiliar contexts takes deeper understanding and skill.
In this article, we’ll explore practical ways to teach AO2, real-world examples, and time-saving tools you can use in class or for homework.
What Is AO2 and Why Is It Hard to Teach?
AO2 requires students to use their psychological knowledge in unfamiliar or real-life scenarios. In Paper 1, they might be asked to explain a behaviour by applying a theory, model, or research study. This is difficult because:
- Students often memorise without understanding
- They struggle to identify the *relevant* part of their knowledge
- They lack confidence in phrasing explanations using scenario details
That’s where consistent exposure and practice come in.
Start with Familiar, Relatable Scenarios
Begin by crafting examples that resonate with teens:
- A student refuses to follow school rules (use minority influence)
- A teenager forgets homework after using Snapchat all night (apply interference theory)
- A TikTok trend leads to risky behaviour (apply normative social influence)
By using current and relatable examples, students can visualise the theory in action — not just in a textbook.
Build AO2 into Daily REK Tasks or Homework
One of the best ways to improve AO2 over time is to embed it into regular routines. Try:
REK (Recent Existing Knowledge) Tasks:
- Pose a mini scenario at the start of each lesson
- Ask students to write a 3-sentence AO2 response
Homework or Revision:
- Use a worksheet format with space for scenario, student response, and model answer review
- Let students self-assess using green pen improvements or peer feedback
Save Time with Self-Marking AO2 Tasks
If you want to reduce your workload while improving student outcomes, use self-marking AO2 worksheets. For example, our Real-World Psychology AO2 Pack includes:
- 20 current, real-life scenarios based on Paper 1 topics
- Each task includes a student-friendly prompt and model answer
- QR code links to answers for instant student feedback
👉 [Explore the full pack here] Real-World Psychology: AO2 Application Scenario Pack for AQA Paper 1 ( – Yum Yum Mama
Model the Thinking Process
Show students how you would break down a question:
- Step 1: Identify the topic (e.g., conformity, forgetting)
- Step 2: Pick the most relevant theory or model
- Step 3: Use specific scenario details (names, behaviours, emotions) in the explanation
Modelling 2–3 of these across different topics can transform how students approach AO2 questions.
Final Thoughts
Teaching AO2 doesn't require reinventing your lessons — just consistent, relatable, and structured practice. Use real-life hooks, encourage self-assessment, and take advantage of tools that save you time while increasing student confidence.
Want a head start? Download our full AO2 Scenario Pack and make AO2 part of your daily practice.
