Psychology · 2001 · May · Paper 2 · SL · Markscheme

MARKSCHEME May 2001 PSYCHOLOGY Standard Level Paper 2 25 pages M01/350/S(2)M INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE BACCALAURÉAT INTERNATIONAL BACHILLERATO INTERNACIONAL Biological bases of behaviour [13 marks] 1. (a) Describe one invasive and one non-invasive method of investigating brain functions. Candidates may choose one of the formal methods of invasive investigations which could include the use of surgery, the use of radio active substances, electroconvulsive treatment, single cell recording, or any method in which the brain is subjected to interference. Examiners should also accept answers that include accidents to the head where the brain is subsequently investigated (e.g. Phineas Gage or injured casualties in war). There are several non-invasive methods including electro-encephalography, (EEG), and magneto-encephalography, (MEG). Whatever method is described in this section, it should not involve an invasive treatment. Examiners should ensure that the technique used is clearly described, including the objective of the particular technique. Given the clarity of this question, material which occurs in the subsection above where it could not earn marks, should not be exported to another section where it could earn marks. In order to obtain high marks, the descriptions presented should be both clear and detailed. [12 marks] (b) Consider the effectiveness of each of the two methods that you have selected in comparison to alternative methods of investigating brain functions. In this case the candidate may choose any specific methods for comparison. For example EEG is a rather coarse technique compared to single cell recording techniques or the more sophisticated MEG, but both could be argued to be effective according to the use to which they are put. In order to gain a high mark the answer should deal with ‘effectiveness’ in a competent and thorough way. If non-human animal studies are used these should also be given credit on their merit. – 3 – M01/350/S(2)M