The lesson begins with a relatable starter exploring everyday disagreements with friends, parents, or teachers, encouraging students to reflect on why people can see the same situation so differently. This leads into Selman’s core ideas about social perspective-taking and how our ability to understand others’ thoughts and feelings develops with age.

AO1 content is delivered through clear explanations of Selman’s theory, supported by short video clips and engaging social dilemmas (including the classic Holly and the Kitten scenario). Students build secure knowledge of Selman’s five levels of perspective-taking, with frequent checks for understanding using mini whiteboards and real-life examples relevant to teenagers.

Students then apply their knowledge through exam-style AO2 scenarios (e.g. playground conflict, shopping arguments, online behaviour), supported by model answers. AO3 evaluation is developed through structured PEEL paragraphs, key research evidence (e.g. Selman, Gurucharri & Selman, Buijzen & Valkenburg, Fitzgerald & White), MCQs, and dilemma-style debates about whether poor perspective-taking is an excuse for harmful behaviour. The lesson finishes with exam practice, peer assessment (WWW/EBI), and an interactive bingo plenary to consolidate key concepts.

Includes:

• Engaging starter & retrieval practice
• Clear AO1 explanations of Selman’s theory and stages
• Research focus (Holly & the Kitten study)
• AO2 application questions with model answers
• AO3 evaluation (strengths & limitations with studies)
• MCQs and exam-focused questioning
• Dilemma-style debate tasks
• Interactive plenary (Bingo)
• Exam practice & peer/self-assessment
• Low-prep, high-engagement, fully exam-focused

Selman’s levels of perspective taking (AQA A-level Psychology)