Describe one model of memory, with reference to one relevant study.

Refer to the paper 1 section A markbands when awarding marks. These can be found under the “Your tests” tab > supplemental materials.

The command term “describe” requires candidates to give a detailed account of one model of memory.

Relevant models of memory may include, but are not limited to:

• Flashbulb memory theory
• Levels of processing
• Multi-store model of memory
• Schema theory
• Working memory model

Relevant studies may include, but are not limited to:

• Baddeley and Hitch’s (1974) studies on the evidence of working memory
• Bartlett’s (1932) study of the role of schema on memory storage
• Brown and Kulik’s (1977) study of flashbulb memory
• Craik and Lockhart’s (1975) study of the levels of processing model
• Peterson and Peterson (1959) on the role of rehearsal and memory consolidation
• Murdock’s (1962) or Glanzer & Cunitz’s (1966) studies on the serial position effect
• Studies of brain damage to support the theory: Milner’s (1966) study of HM; Warrington and Shallice’s (1974) study of KF.

Although it is acceptable for candidates to include a drawing of the model, the written description of the model is assessed on its own merits.

If a candidate describes more than one model of memory or more than one study, credit should be given only to the first model of memory or study described.

If a candidate describes one model of memory without making reference to a relevant study, up to a maximum of [5] should be awarded.

If a candidate only describes an appropriate study without describing a model of memory, up to a maximum of [4] should be awarded.

SL:

The majority of responses demonstrated a strong understanding of a variety of memory models, by far the most common being the multi-store model (MSM) and the working memory model (WMM). A wide variety of relevant research was clearly described and linked back to the appropriate model.

Some candidates named one memory model and then proceeded to describe another. A noticeable amount of responses confused the MSM with the WMM or used a supporting study which in fact supported the other model.

HL:

Many candidates were able to describe a model of memory in good detail and describe a relevant study. The link between the study and the model could often be better explained. Some candidates simply created a diagram of the model with no description. No marks were awarded for drawings without explanations.

Although bot schema theory and flashbulb memory theory were accepted as "models," often the theory was not described in any detail. The command term describe requires that key aspects of the theory with regard to encoding and retrieval be presented.