Lesson Plan

• Describe the core AS‑Level psychology concepts across the six main areas.
• Explain how specialist options extend and integrate these core concepts.
• Analyse case studies from at least two specialist options, evaluating the supporting research evidence.
• Apply basic research‑method principles to design a brief study related to a specialist topic.
• Compare and contrast different specialist options to justify a personal choice for A‑Level study.

• Projector and screen for slides/diagrams
• Printed handouts summarising core modules and specialist option outlines
• Whiteboard and markers
• Sample past‑paper questions (AS and A‑Level)
• Case‑study worksheets for specialist options
• Laptop with internet access for video clips

Begin with a quick poll asking students which area of psychology most interests them, linking to the upcoming specialist options. Remind them of the core AS content covered earlier and how it underpins advanced study. Outline today’s success criteria: identify core concepts, explain connections to two specialist options, and begin planning a mini‑research proposal.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Students match core topics to definitions on a worksheet.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of the AS core syllabus and its role in A‑Level.
3. Specialist options carousel (15’) – Groups rotate through stations on Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology, etc., summarising key points.
4. Case‑study analysis (15’) – Groups work on a provided case, linking core theory to specialist content.
5. Whole‑class debrief (10’) – Groups share insights; teacher highlights integration and assessment expectations.
6. Exit ticket (5’) – Students write one way they will link a core concept to a specialist option in their revision.

Summarise how mastering core AS material enables deeper exploration of specialist options and prepares students for A‑Level assessments. Collect exit tickets as a retrieval check and remind learners to review the handout and complete the mini‑proposal for homework.