Paper 1: Biological Level of Analysis Sample Questions (revised 04/15)
8 Mark Questions
Marks will be awarded for focused answers demonstrating accurate knowledge
and understanding of research.
Possible Command Terms: analyse, apply, define, describe, distinguish, explain,
outline, state
General Learning Outcomes
1. Outline principles that define the biological level of analysis.
2. Explain how principles that define the biological level of analysis may be
demonstrated in research.
3. Explain how and why one research method is used at the biological level
of analysis.
4. Outline one ethical consideration related to research studies at the
biological level of analysis.
Physiology and Behaviour
5. Explain one study related to the localization of function in the brain.
6. Using one example, explain the effects of neurotransmission on human
behaviour.
7. Using one example, explain the effects of two hormones on human
behaviour.
8. Describe one effect of the environment on physiological processes.
9. Outline one study, which shows the interaction between cognition and
physiology in terms of behaviour.
10. Explain how one brain imaging technology can be used in investigating the
relationship between biological factors and behaviour.
Genetics and Behaviour
10. Use one research study to describe the influence genetic inheritance has
on behaviour.
11. Explain one evolutionary explanation of behaviour.
12. Describe one ethical consideration in research into genetic influences on
behaviour.
22 Mark Questions
Marks will be awarded for demonstration of knowledge and understanding
(including the use of relevant psychological research), evidence of critical
thinking (e.g. application, analysis, synthesis, evaluation), and organization of
answers.
Possible Command Terms: Compare, contrast, discuss, evaluate, examine, to
what extent
General Learning Outcomes
13. Discuss how and why particular research methods (e.g. experiments, case
studies) are used in the biological level of analysis. Use relevant research
studies in your response.
14. Discuss ethical considerations related to research studies at the
biological level of analysis.
Physiology and Behaviour
15. Discuss two effects of the environment on physiological processes.
16. Examine one interaction between cognition and physiology in terms of
behaviour.
17. Discuss the use of brain imaging technologies in investigating the
relationship between biological factors and behaviour.
Genetics and Behaviour
18. With reference to relevant research studies, to what extent does genetic
inheritance influence behaviour?
19. Examine one evolutionary explanation of behaviour.
20. Discuss ethical considerations related to research conducted into
genetic influences on behaviour.