Section B: Application Questions
Section B is worth 12 marks and consists of 2 compulsory questions (6 marks each). Each question gives you a scenario or study and asks you to apply a psychological concept, theory, or model to it. The key is showing well-developed application — not just knowledge.
Marks
12 marks (2 × 6)
Duration
Shared 1h 30 min (P1)
SL weight
~12% of final grade (SL)
HL weight
~8.6% of final grade (HL)
Questions
2 × 6-mark application questions (answer both)
Two 6-mark questions, each presenting a scenario or stimulus. You must apply a named concept or theory to the situation described. The skill is almost entirely application (AO2): no evaluation is required, but the link between theory and scenario must be explicit and accurate.
Prep strategy
Practise identifying which concept fits a given scenario. Write out the concept clearly, then show step-by-step how it explains the specific situation.
Last reviewed: 28 April 2026
The Answer Structure
Definition → Explanation → Link → Application → Evaluation
Define the concept
Give a concise, accurate definition of the psychological concept, theory, or model being asked about.
Explain the mechanism
Break down how the concept works — the process, principle, or cause. Use correct psychological terminology. Mention all key features (e.g., for social learning theory: modelling, vicarious reinforcement, mediating factors).
Apply to the scenario
This is the most important step. Show HOW the concept explains or applies to the specific scenario given. Be explicit — don't just describe the scenario, explain what the concept predicts or how it would work in that context.
Evaluate the application
Discuss the value (strengths) and limitations of the concept in this specific context. Consider predictive power, practical applications, oversimplification, or individual/cultural differences.
Section B Markbands
| Mark | What the examiner expects |
|---|---|
| 0 | The work does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below. |
| 1–2 | Knowledge and understanding to the question is limited. The application of knowledge is relevant but limited. |
| 3–4 | Knowledge and understanding has some detail and is mostly accurate. The application of knowledge is relevant and partially developed. |
| 5–6 | Knowledge and understanding is accurate and detailed. The application of relevant knowledge is well developed. |
Specimen Questions & Sample Answers
From the IBO 2025 Specimen Paper
Explain the value of a theory/model
6 marksContext: Learning and Cognition
Scenario / Study
A group of researchers investigated imagination as a cognitive process. They suggested a model in which imagination consists of three stages of processing: (1) Selection of elements, (2) Random combination of elements with each other, (3) Evaluation of combinations and output. To test this model, they conducted a study with primary school children. Each child was given a set of toy body parts and asked to create an imaginary creature. Researchers observed that children first selected a subset of body parts, then spent time randomly combining them, before deciding on a final version.
"With reference to this study, explain the value of cognitive models for understanding cognitive processes."
Teacher's Tip: The question asks you to explain the 'value' — this means strengths and usefulness, not just a description. Define cognitive models, explain what makes them valuable (testability, operationalisation, empirical support), then apply directly to this study. Show how the study supports or partially supports the model.
Top markband: 5–6: Knowledge and understanding is accurate and detailed. The application of relevant knowledge is well developed.
Sample Answer
"Cognitive models are theoretical frameworks that represent mental processes in a structured, testable way. Their value lies in making abstract cognitive processes — like imagination — observable and measurable. Because cognitive processes cannot be directly seen, models provide a framework that researchers can operationalise and test empirically. In this study, the three-stage model of imagination (selection, combination, evaluation) was tested by observing children's behaviour with toy body parts. The researchers found that children's behaviour followed the predicted sequence — first selecting, then combining, then presenting — which supports the model's validity. However, the model's claim that combination is 'random' was not directly tested, illustrating an important limitation: models can only be partially validated by any single study. This demonstrates the value of cognitive models as tools for generating testable predictions and guiding research, even when full validation requires multiple studies."
Explain how a theory could be applied
6 marksContext: Human Development
Scenario / Study
As the school psychologist, you have been asked to suggest a strategy to promote empathy and/or prosocial behaviour among children at your school.
"Explain how social learning theory could be used to achieve this goal."
Teacher's Tip: This is an application question — you must both explain the theory AND apply it to the specific scenario. Don't just describe social learning theory in the abstract. Show how each component (modelling, vicarious reinforcement, identification) translates into a concrete school strategy. The more specific your application, the higher your marks.
Top markband: 5–6: Knowledge and understanding is accurate and detailed. The application of relevant knowledge is well developed.
Sample Answer
"Social learning theory (Bandura, 1977) proposes that behaviour is learned through observation and imitation of models, particularly when the observer identifies with the model and sees them receive positive reinforcement (vicarious reinforcement). To promote empathy and prosocial behaviour, the school could implement a structured peer-mentoring programme in which older students consistently model acts of kindness, conflict resolution, and emotional support. According to social learning theory, younger students are more likely to imitate models they perceive as similar and admirable. The school could publicly recognise and reward prosocial behaviour — creating vicarious reinforcement that motivates others to act similarly. Additionally, incorporating media such as films or books featuring diverse characters demonstrating empathy would broaden the range of models available. The key is ensuring the strategies address Bandura's mediating factors: students must pay attention to the model, retain what they observe, be capable of reproducing the behaviour, and be motivated to do so. By designing the programme around these conditions, the school maximises the likelihood that prosocial behaviour is internalised rather than merely performed."
The "Application First" Strategy
- Read the scenario before you plan your answer. The scenario tells you what to apply the concept to. Underline the key details — they are your application anchors.
- The word "well developed" in the top markband is the key. A 5–6 answer doesn't just mention the concept — it traces the mechanism step by step through the scenario.
- Evaluation adds depth. Briefly noting a limitation (e.g., individual differences, cultural factors) shows critical thinking and can push a 4 to a 6.