Sociology gives anyone with an interest in social issues, social justice, and current affairs the opportunity to gain a valuable understanding and insight into how society works. You are encouraged to think critically and analytically, and to make informed judgments and arguments based on evidence and theories.  

The study of Sociology provides a valuable insight into social factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, education and social class and how they affect society and life chances. You will develop an increased awareness and understanding of the world you live in and role you play in it. 

Course Content

Year 12

· Introductions to sociological perspectives

· Families and households

· Research methods

· Education

· Research methods in context: Education  

Year 13

· Crime & Deviance  

· Research methods in context: Crime & Deviance  

· Social Stratification

Assessment criteria

The A Level in Sociology is a linear qualification with 100% external assessment.

This qualification consists of three examined components. Each paper is made up of 80 marks and all three are equally weighted (33.33%).  

Paper 1: Education with Methods in Context  

Paper 2: Topics in Sociology – Families & Households and Social Stratification

Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods  

 

Subject teachers: Ms Kirkpatrick and Mr Nicholls

Exam Board: AQA

Entry Requirements

5 in English Lit or Lang, 5 in Maths

Are you interested in?

Understanding and explaining causes of inequality

The impact of digital forms of communication on social relations

Inequality in society

Patterns and trends in relation to social class

Critical theories such as Feminism and Marxism

Leading to a career in:

Politics, Criminal Justice, Business, Education, Law, Psychology, Social Policy, International Relations, Anthropology and Sociology. A qualification in Sociology is relevant to many careers from those such as social work, nursing, medicine, policing, civil service, journalism, marketing, advertising, public relations, law, teaching and management. 

This subject goes well with:

English

Psychology

History

Student views:

Studying Sociology helps me understand people’s experiences and the complexities of society.