Practise IB Psychology HL 3.2.3 questions by comparing developmental theories and evaluating studies of cognition, adolescence and brain development.
Compare and contrast two theories of cognitive development.
Refer to the paper 2 assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "compare and contrast" requires candidates to give an account of similarities and differences between two theories of cognitive development. Although a discussion of both similarities and differences is required, it does not have to be evenly balanced to gain high marks.
Relevant theories may include, but are not limited to:
- Piaget's assimilation/accommodation model of cognitive development
- Vygotsky's contextual approach to cognitive development
- Bruner's theory of cognitive development
- information-processing approach to cognitive development
- neurobiological explanations of cognitive development.
Comparing and contrasting points may include, but are not limited to:
- assumptions of the theories
- methodological considerations
- cultural and gender considerations
- stages versus continuous process
- productivity of the theories in generating psychological research
- applications of the empirical findings.
If a candidate discusses only similarities or only differences, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [5] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2] for criterion C, organization. Up to full marks may be awarded for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension.
If a candidate only describes and evaluates one theory with no specific reference to another theory, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [3] for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension, up to a maximum of [3] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2] for criterion C, organization.
If a candidate compares and contrasts more than two theories, credit should be given only to the first two theories. However, candidates may address other theories and be awarded marks for these as long as they are clearly used to clarify the comparison of the two main theories addressed in the response.
If a response is based upon theories of attachment rather than cognitive development, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [3] for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension, up to a maximum of [3] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2] for criterion C, organization.