10 free VCE Psychology practice questions (with model answers)

Here are three to start — the full ten plus the marking guide come in the pack.

1. (3 marks) Explain the role of the sympathetic nervous system in the fight-flight-freeze response.

Model answer: The sympathetic nervous system activates in response to a perceived threat, increasing physiological arousal (e.g. heart rate, respiration, adrenaline release) to prepare the body for action. This dominates over the parasympathetic branch during the response, mobilising energy for fight or flight.

2. (2 marks) Distinguish between explicit and implicit memory with an example of each.

Model answer: Explicit (declarative) memory involves consciously retrieved information, e.g. recalling a definition for an exam. Implicit (procedural) memory is retrieved without conscious effort, e.g. riding a bike.

3. (4 marks) A student is more anxious before exams this year than last. Using the stress response, explain one psychological and one biological factor that could contribute.

Model answer (outline): Psychological — appraisal of the exam as a threat rather than a challenge (Lazarus & Folkman) increases the stress response. Biological — chronic activation of the HPA axis and elevated cortisol can heighten baseline arousal. Full marks require linking each factor explicitly to the student's increased anxiety.