Examiner's Verdict

The May 2025 papers for IB Psychology HL present a very fair but rigorous test of candidate knowledge. The core topics in Paper 1 are classical favourites, notably the Working Memory Model (WMM) and enculturation, which well-prepared students should easily navigate. However, Paper 1 Section B introduces a complex combination: discussing the value of animal models specifically linked to genetics research. Paper 2 offers excellent choice breadth across the four options, sticking closely to syllabus-defined conceptual relationships such as treatment contrasts, sociocultural identity, and dispositional factors in health.

Where the Marks Lie

Success on these papers hinges on a strict understanding of the rubrics. In the Section A Short Answer Questions (SAQs), each worth 9 marks, candidates are assessed purely on Criterion A (Focus on the question) and Criterion B (Knowledge and understanding). High-scoring papers directly link the chosen study to the prompt's focus (e.g., explaining how scopolamine functions as an antagonist rather than just describing a memory study). For the Extended Response Questions (ERQs), worth 22 marks, the highest concentration of marks is found in Criterion D (Critical Thinking) and Criterion C (Use of research to support answer). Evaluative frameworks (such as TEACUP) must be used systematically rather than relying on generic, pre-memorised criticisms.

Examiner Pitfalls to Avoid

  • The Drawing Trap: For the WMM prompt in Paper 1, many students waste precious minutes drawing the model. The markscheme explicitly warns that only the written description is assessed.
  • Overcrowded Studies: In prompts requiring 'one relevant study', referencing several studies is counterproductive. Credit is awarded only to the first study described, meaning extra studies waste valuable writing time.
  • Weak Mechanism Explanations: Students frequently fail to describe the precise biological action of an agonist or antagonist (e.g., binding to receptors, blocking neurotransmitter reuptake). Simply stating that a drug "affects behaviour" is insufficient.
  • Generic Animal Critiques: In genetics questions, students often talk broadly about animal ethics rather than evaluating the specific scientific validity of mapping animal genomes to complex human behaviours.

Strategy & Predictions

To maximise marks in future series, students must build flexible essay blueprints. If you prepare for an ERQ on a core topic, always ensure you can adapt your research studies to different prompts. For instance, studies on the Social Identity Theory (SIT) must be ready to be analysed through the lens of cognitive approaches, sociocultural factors, or research methodology. Given that agonists/antagonists and WMM have now appeared as SAQs, future series are highly likely to pivot towards neuroplasticity/neural pruning in the biological approach and cognitive processing biases in the cognitive approach. Make sure your revision prioritises these areas.