IB Psychology/External Assessment/Paper 1

Paper 1 is the first of the examination papers in psychology. It covers the core of the course. Both standard and higher level students have 2 hours at their disposal.

Standard Level
For standard level students, Paper 1 contributes 50% to the final grade. It is structured as follows. Note that a question may have an a) and a b) part; in that instance, both parts must be answered.


 * Section A. Short answer questions.
 * All questions must be answered. 9 marks maximum awarded for each question.
 * 1. A question on the biological level of analysis.
 * 2. A question on the cognitive level of analysis.
 * 3. A question on the socio-cultural level of analysis.


 * Section B. Essay response questions.
 * One question is answered (free choice). 22 marks maximum awarded.
 * 1. A question on the biological perspective.
 * 2. A question on the cognitive perspective.
 * 3. A question on the socio-cultural perspective.

Higher Level
For higher level students, Paper 1 contributes 30% to the final grade. It is structured as follows. Note that a question may have an a) and a b) part; in that instance, both parts must be answered.


 * Section A. Short answer questions.
 * All questions must be answered. 8 marks maximum awarded for each question.
 * 1. A question on the biological perspective.
 * 2. A question on the cognitive perspective.
 * 3. A question on the socio-cultural perspective.


 * Section B. Essay response questions.
 * One question is answered (free choice). 22 marks maximum awarded.
 * 1. A question on the biological perspective.
 * 2. A question on the cognitive perspective.
 * 3. A question on the socio-cultural perspective.