IB Psychology (SL/HL): ERQ Writing & Research Studies Guide
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schoolIB Psychology SL/HL

IB Psychology — Stop memorising studies.Start scoring with concepts + context.

Times Edu trains IB Psych the way it’s assessed now: concept-based understanding → apply to real contexts → evaluate evidence → write fast, examiner-style answers.

info Quick Exam Facts

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Syllabus Taught/Assessed

May/Nov 2024 – 2027 Cycles

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Learning Model

Concepts + Content + Contexts (3C)

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Internal Assessment

Modified replication research proposal

Why Students Lose Marks

Most students struggle because they memorize studies without understanding the conceptual framework required by the IB.

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Describing without concepts

Failing to link studies back to the core psychological concept or theory in the question.

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Weak SAQ Structure

Writing too much irrelevance and missing the specific marking rubric requirements for Short Answer Questions.

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Generic ERQ Evaluation

Using memorized “GRENADE” points that don’t actually apply to the specific question context.

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HL Data Misinterpretation

Struggling to interpret complex correlation or qualitative data findings in Paper 3.

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What improves in 4–12 weeks?

We shift the focus from content absorption to exam performance skills.

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Repeatable SAQ structure for any concept

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ERQs with critical thinking & context-based evaluation

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Stronger research literacy & methodology

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HL Data interpretation routine (Paper 3)

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Feasible & Scoreable IA Research Proposal

Get Your Personal Score Roadmap

Free 30′ Diagnostic: We break down your current performance by component and identify your top mark-loss patterns. No commitment required.

SL vs HL — What Changes?

Understanding the structural differences in assessment.

Component
Standard Level (SL)
Higher Level (HL)
article Paper 1
2 hours (50%)3 SAQs + 1 ERQ
2 hours (40%)3 SAQs + 1 ERQ
science Paper 2
1 hour (25%)1 ERQ
2 hours (20%)2 ERQs
analytics Paper 3
Not Assessed
1 hour (20%)Data Analysis (HL Only)
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20 hours (25%)Experimental Study
20 hours (20%)Experimental Study

Assessment Overview: What each paper actually tests

Paper 1

Concepts + Content + Context

Focuses on biological, cognitive, and sociocultural approaches. Requires linking theory to research and evaluating studies.

Paper 2

Research Contexts

Options-based (e.g., Abnormal, Human Relationships). Tests your ability to apply research to specific applied psychology topics.

HL ONLY
Paper 3

Data Analysis

No content memorization. Tests ability to interpret qualitative/quantitative data, bias, credibility, and generalizability.

IA

Research Proposal

Students conduct a simple experiment. Focus is on methodology, data processing, and evaluation of your own study.

Content Map: What We Cover

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The 6 Core Concepts

  • Bias
  • Causality
  • Change
  • Measurement
  • Perspective
  • Responsibility
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Content Areas

  • Biological Approach
  • Cognitive Approach
  • Sociocultural Approach
  • Research Methodology
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4 Applied Contexts

  • Health & Well-being
  • Human Development
  • Human Relationships
  • Learning & Cognition
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Class Practicals

Minimum 4 practicals by context:

  • Experiment Methods
  • Observation Methods
  • Correlational Studies
  • Case Study / Interviews
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HL Extensions

Biological

Animal research in psychology

Cognitive

Cognitive processing in digital world

Sociocultural

Globalization and behavior

Times Edu Strategy Playbook

Score systems, not just “more notes”.

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Paper 1 Strategy

SAQ → ERQ under timed routines. We provide precise frames to structure your answers quickly.

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Paper 2 Strategy

Research thinking is the differentiator. Use our checklist for concept-based evaluation rather than memorizing critique.

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Paper 3 (HL) Strategy

Data interpretation routine. Practice with mixed findings (qualitative/quantitative) to master the static questions.

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IA Strategy

Research Proposal that’s feasible and scoreable. We help you lock essentials and align methods early.

How Learning Works at Times Edu

1

Concept Intro

Deep dive into the core concept and related theory.

2

Context Application

Apply theory to real-world research contexts.

3

Timed Practice

Write SAQs/ERQs under exam conditions.

4

Feedback Loop

Examiner-style marking and personalized reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Times Edu suitable for both SL and HL students?expand_more

Yes. Our classes cover the core content relevant to both levels, with specific breakout sessions for HL-only extensions and Paper 3 data analysis.

How does the free diagnostic work?expand_more

You’ll schedule a 30-minute session with one of our lead tutors. We will review your past papers or school grades, identify your specific weaknesses (e.g., structure vs. content), and provide a roadmap to improve.

Do you help with the Internal Assessment (IA)?expand_more

Absolutely. We guide you from the proposal stage to the final draft, ensuring your research methodology is sound and your data analysis is accurate.

Ready to maximize your IB Psychology score?

Choose your starting point below.

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