Examiner's Review: May/June 2023 Psychology (9990) Series
The May/June 2023 series highlighted key developmental areas in Cambridge International AS & A Level Psychology (9990). Candidates demonstrated solid fundamental knowledge of core studies but frequently struggled with contextual application and high-level evaluative analysis. Across all four papers, the difference between top-tier candidates and those in the middle bands lay in their ability to link generic psychological concepts to specific evidence.
Key Performance Metrics and Pitfalls
In Paper 1 (Approaches, Issues and Debates), examiners noted that many students could not separate raw experimental results from logical conclusions. For instance, in questions regarding Piliavin et al., candidates must distinguish between factual data (such as helping rates) and the broader conclusion (diffusion of responsibility does not occur in a field setting). Additionally, when evaluating Bandura et al. in the final essay, failing to explicitly address the named issue of reliability limited candidates to a maximum Level 3 mark, regardless of how detailed their other points were.
Research Methods & Scenario Application (Paper 2)
Paper 2 remains a critical grade differentiator. While candidates could define basic terms like ecological validity, they struggled with the application of research designs to novel scenarios. A common misconception was confusing a repeated measures design with replication. In the design question, top marks required clear description of the three 'majors' (operationalised behaviors, first observational technique, and additional observational techniques) and the 'minors' (where, who, when, and replication details).
Specialist Options: Deep Dive (Papers 3 & 4)
In the A2 papers, candidates who did not link their design choices directly to psychological theories (e.g., using Lovell et al. for OCD or Grossman & Wisenblit for consumer color preferences) lost valuable marks. In the Section C essays, a balanced two-sided debate is essential. Descriptive writing cannot be credited here; marks are strictly awarded for analysis and evaluation (AO3).
Strategic Advice for Upcoming Series
- Never leave a blank space: The 9990 syllabus uses positive marking. Always attempt a response, even if you are uncertain.
- Prepare the Named Issues: Flashcards must be built around the named syllabus issues (e.g., reductionism vs holism, generalisability, psychometrics) as they are mandatory to unlock Level 4 bands.
- Integrate Sample Details: Memorise the exact participant metrics (e.g., Andrade's sample of \( n = 40 \) containing 35 females and 5 males) to easily secure quick marks.