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AQA Psychology Paper 1 (2026) — Spec-based predicted paper mark scheme
AQA Psychology A-level Paper 1 (2026)
Spec-based Predicted Paper
Mark Scheme + Indicative Answers
Matches the spec-based predicted paper already provided. Unofficial, exam-focused, and
written for self-marking.
How to use this pack
The 4-mark questions are shown with straightforward point-based mark schemes and a concise
model answer.
The 16-mark questions use indicative content plus an easy self-mark grid. Treat them as high-
quality answers, not the only possible wording.
For essays, the strongest responses balance AO1 knowledge with AO3 evaluation and keep the
answer focused on the named topic in the question.
Unofficial revision material
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AQA Psychology Paper 1 (2026) — Spec-based predicted paper mark scheme
Section A: Social influence
Q1. Outline two variables that affect conformity, as investigated by Asch. (4 marks)
Marking points
Award 1 mark for each correctly identified variable and 1 further mark for accurate
detail/elaboration. Accept any two of: group size, unanimity, task difficulty.
Indicative content
• Group size — conformity tends to rise as the majority gets larger, especially up to around
three people.
• Unanimity — conformity falls when one dissenter breaks the majority’s agreement.
• Task difficulty — conformity rises when the line judgment becomes harder, so people look to
others for guidance.
Concise model answer
One variable is group size. As the number of people in the majority increases, conformity tends to
increase, especially up to about three people.
A second variable is unanimity. When one other person disagrees with the majority, conformity
falls because the pressure to agree is reduced.
Q2. Explain one way in which social support can help a person resist social influence. (4 marks)
Marking points
Award marks for knowledge of social support and explanation linked to resistance. Full marks
require a clear explanation and application to the item.
Indicative content
• Social support means the presence of another person who resists or dissents.
• An ally breaks unanimity and reduces pressure to conform or obey.
• This makes independent behaviour feel more legitimate or less risky.
• Applied point: Maya finds it easier to disagree once another friend also speaks up.
Concise model answer
Social support helps resistance because the presence of an ally breaks the group’s unanimity.
Maya feels less isolated once one other friend speaks up, so the pressure to agree with the group is
reduced and it becomes easier for her to resist their influence.
Q3. Discuss explanations for obedience. (16 marks)
Level / marks How to award
13–16 Accurate, well-organised knowledge with clear
evaluation and a reasoned judgement. Uses the
wording of the question and stays focused
throughout.
Unofficial revision material
messages.downloaded_by
AQA Psychology Paper 1 (2026) — Spec-based predicted paper mark scheme
AQA Psychology A-level Paper 1 (2026)
Spec-based Predicted Paper
Mark Scheme + Indicative Answers
Matches the spec-based predicted paper already provided. Unofficial, exam-focused, and
written for self-marking.
How to use this pack
The 4-mark questions are shown with straightforward point-based mark schemes and a concise
model answer.
The 16-mark questions use indicative content plus an easy self-mark grid. Treat them as high-
quality answers, not the only possible wording.
For essays, the strongest responses balance AO1 knowledge with AO3 evaluation and keep the
answer focused on the named topic in the question.
Unofficial revision material
messages.downloaded_by
, lOMoARcPSD|64109549
AQA Psychology Paper 1 (2026) — Spec-based predicted paper mark scheme
Section A: Social influence
Q1. Outline two variables that affect conformity, as investigated by Asch. (4 marks)
Marking points
Award 1 mark for each correctly identified variable and 1 further mark for accurate
detail/elaboration. Accept any two of: group size, unanimity, task difficulty.
Indicative content
• Group size — conformity tends to rise as the majority gets larger, especially up to around
three people.
• Unanimity — conformity falls when one dissenter breaks the majority’s agreement.
• Task difficulty — conformity rises when the line judgment becomes harder, so people look to
others for guidance.
Concise model answer
One variable is group size. As the number of people in the majority increases, conformity tends to
increase, especially up to about three people.
A second variable is unanimity. When one other person disagrees with the majority, conformity
falls because the pressure to agree is reduced.
Q2. Explain one way in which social support can help a person resist social influence. (4 marks)
Marking points
Award marks for knowledge of social support and explanation linked to resistance. Full marks
require a clear explanation and application to the item.
Indicative content
• Social support means the presence of another person who resists or dissents.
• An ally breaks unanimity and reduces pressure to conform or obey.
• This makes independent behaviour feel more legitimate or less risky.
• Applied point: Maya finds it easier to disagree once another friend also speaks up.
Concise model answer
Social support helps resistance because the presence of an ally breaks the group’s unanimity.
Maya feels less isolated once one other friend speaks up, so the pressure to agree with the group is
reduced and it becomes easier for her to resist their influence.
Q3. Discuss explanations for obedience. (16 marks)
Level / marks How to award
13–16 Accurate, well-organised knowledge with clear
evaluation and a reasoned judgement. Uses the
wording of the question and stays focused
throughout.
Unofficial revision material
messages.downloaded_by
