Sociology

What is the overall aim of what we are learning in Sociology?

This qualification offers an engaging and effective introduction to Sociology. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by higher education (HE) and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research.

By learning about sociology, we can better understand the complexities of our society, become more aware of our own beliefs and biases, and gain a better understanding of how social systems, organisations, and institutions work.

What are the students learning in Year 12 & 13?

A level Sociology examines social behaviour from a variety of perspectives: How it originates and then develops, and the ways people are organised into groups according to distinctions such as class, gender and race. Students will study Education, Research Methods and Families and Households, Crime and Deviance and Beliefs in Society.

Why are they learning these things?

Studying sociology provides a better understanding of the following: Reasons for social differences, including differences in social behavior. Reasons for the differentials in group opportunities and outcomes. The relevance of social hierarchies and social power in everyday life. Reasons for the educational differences between different genders. Reasons why some social class groups are more at risk of being involved in crime. Reasons why middle class crimes are not discussed as much as working class crimes.
 

How do we provide Stretch and Support?

Stretch
Students will be asked to apply new knowledge to current affairs issues in the news. Students will be given access to mark schemes and examiners reports to support them in accessing the skills needed to improve their grades.

Support
Sample exam answers will be available to support those who need it. Students will be given key word lists and sentence structures.