IB Psychology SL study plan

Map the biological approach syllabus: define the role of genes, neurotransmitters, hormones, and brain localisation in behaviour

Outline the structure and function of the nervous system and endocrine system, and explain neural transmission in your own words

Build a glossary of 25 core biological terms (e.g., neurotransmitter, synapse, hippocampus, cortisol, genotype) with one-line definitions

List the key biological studies you will use as evidence and record each study's aim, method, and finding in a comparison table

Explain how one or more techniques (e.g., fMRI, MRI, PET, EEG) are used to investigate the brain, noting strengths and limitations

Describe the effects of at least two neurotransmitters on behaviour and support each with a named study

Describe how at least one hormone influences behaviour and support it with a named study

Evaluate the use of animal models in biological research on behaviour

Explain localisation of function and neuroplasticity using at least two named studies

Describe the role of genetics in behaviour, distinguishing genotype, phenotype, and heritability

Evaluate the biological approach as a whole: reductionism, determinism, and ethical considerations

Draft three potential SAQ answers on biological topics from memory, then check against notes

Consolidate Domain 1 by answering a full essay question under timed conditions

Map the cognitive approach syllabus: define models of memory, schema theory, and thinking and decision-making

Explain the multi-store model and working memory model, listing supporting evidence for each

Compare the two memory models in a side-by-side table

Explain schema theory and describe how schemas influence encoding, retrieval, and reconstruction of memory

Describe at least two cognitive biases or heuristics in thinking and decision-making, each with a supporting study

Explain how one cognitive research method (e.g., lab experiment, case study, interview) generates evidence about cognition

Evaluate the reliability and ecological validity of cognitive research

Explain the reliability of one or more cognitive processes (e.g., reconstructive memory) using named studies

Consolidate Domain 2 by writing two timed SAQs and one essay outline

Map the sociocultural approach syllabus: define social identity theory, social cognitive theory, and stereotyping

Describe how culture and cultural dimensions influence behaviour with at least one named study

Explain social identity theory and social cognitive theory, and apply each to a real-world example

Describe the formation of stereotypes and their effect on behaviour, citing at least two studies

Explain how one sociocultural research method (e.g., observation, survey, cross-cultural study) is used and evaluate its limitations

Evaluate the sociocultural approach: cultural bias, generalisability, and ethical issues in conformity research

Review all three domains using a spaced-repetition schedule, prioritising weakest topics identified in earlier weeks

Practise one full essay per domain under exam timing (50 minutes each)

Write condensed one-page summary sheets for each domain

Complete a final self-assessment against the exam rubric and list three remaining gaps