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IB Psychology (HL)

Students undertaking the course can expect to develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated, developed and applied. This will allow them to have a greater understanding of themselves and appreciate the diversity of human behavior.
The holistic approach reflected in the curriculum, which sees biological, cognitive and sociocultural analysis being taught in an integrated way, ensures that students are able to develop an understanding of what all humans share, as well as the immense diversity of influences on human behavior and mental processes. The ethical concerns raised by the methodology and application of psychological research are also key considerations of the IB psychology course.

Key features of the curriculum and assessment models

  • The course is available at higher level (HL) only.
  • The minimum prescribed number of hours is 240. This course will take place over two years.
  • Students are assessed both internally and externally as detailed below.
  • External assessments for HL students consist of three written paper exams.
    • Paper One (HL) is worth 40% of the overall Psychology grade and focuses on three approaches to understanding behavior: Biological, Cognitive and Sociocultural.
    • Paper Two (HL) is worth 20% of the overall Psychology grade and focuses on two optional topics: Developmental and Abnormal Psychology.
    • Paper Three (HL) is worth 20% of the overall Psychology grade and focuses on analyzing research in terms of methodical, reflexive and ethical issues.
  • The Internal assessment calls for students to write a report of a simple experimental study conducted by the student. This is internally marked by subject teachers and then externally moderated by IB examiners. The internal assessment is worth 20% of the overall Psychology grade.

Syllabus Components:

Part One: Core: The biological, cognitive and sociocultural levels of analysis

Part Two: Options: Abnormal and developmental psychology

Part Three: Qualitative research in psychology

Part Four: Introduction to experimental research methodology