Sociology
In an ever-changing society, where there sadly appear to be increasing divisions, Sociology is the ideal subject to encourage students to take an objective view of issues and events, and to challenge their existing beliefs and values.
- Curriculum Intent
- Key Learning Stages
- Subject Content Breakdown
- Assessment Methods
- Teaching Approach and Resources
- Career and Further Education Pathways
- Contact & Support
Curriculum Intent
Educational Goals
By studying Sociology, students will gain an appreciation of human behaviour and the institutions which affect interactions. The aim of the curriculum is to develop students into informed, inquisitive young people that can empathise with others who are in different social circumstances to themselves. The subject encourages students to question what they think they know about society and to critically analyse the complexities of modern life.
Knowledge and Skills
Students will acquire:
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Substantive knowledge of key concepts, theories and methods used to study society.
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An understanding of social inequality, the role of social institutions and the nature of social change.
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A deeper understanding of current affairs and social issues.
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An ability to think independently and to have an enquiring mind.
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The ability to write coherently and present analytical arguments effectively, both orally and in writing.
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The ability to analyse and apply numerical and written evidence to a variety of contexts; developing written communication skills which transfer to other subjects.
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The ability to evaluate the strengths and limitations of different theories in order to reach evidence-based conclusions.
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A more open outlook on the world: taking a critical view, rather than simply taking what they are told as ‘fact’.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
The curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible. It incorporates a range of teaching strategies, including classic and modern examples of research, real-life impacts of inequality on the life chances of differing groups and consideration of social issues in their own lives, to engage learners. Support is provided through scaffolded tasks, definitions of subject specific terminology, teacher modelling and opportunities for peer collaboration. We frequently revisit core themes and theories via retrieval and application tasks, so that students are able to build on prior learning. By its very nature, the Sociology curriculum reflects diverse perspectives and examines the impact on people’s lives of social class, gender, ethnicity, age, religion, disability and sexuality. At the heart of the curriculum is the systematic discussion of life chances and inequality, encouraging students to develop empathy and acceptance of others in their society.
Real-World Application
Our Sociology curriculum supports students across their current subjects in school, as well as in their future education, by improving literacy and communication skills – both written and spoken. We help students develop a greater understanding of contemporary social issues and the role of different institutions in society, along with a recognition of how their own individual and group actions affect others.
Key Learning Stages
Key Stage 4 – AQA GCSE Sociology (8192)
Sociology is structured into five key topic areas, each of which is taught over one term across years 10 and 11. These topics are: The Sociological Approach; Families; Education; Crime and Deviance; Social Stratification. Each component is assessed through written exams, involving two papers.
Key Stage 5 – AQA A-Level Sociology (7192)
Sociology is structured into five key topic areas, taught by two teachers across five terms from years 12-13. These topics are: Theory and Methods; Education; Families and Households; Beliefs in Society; Crime and Deviance. Each component is assessed through written exams, involving three papers.
Progression Pathways
The curriculum is designed to progressively develop knowledge and skills, with the Assessment Objectives at Key Stage 4 and 5 being the same.
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At Key Stage 4, students learn about the key concepts, theories and methods involved in the study of society. They begin with knowledge and understanding, followed by the skill of applying their knowledge to different sociological contexts. They then learn how to analyse and evaluate sociological theories and evidence, in order to present informed arguments.
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At Key Stage 5, students further develop their knowledge and understanding of key concepts and theories, with greater emphasis on independent study and research. They are able to apply contemporary sources of evidence alongside classical sociological research, which further enhances their analytical and critical awareness – preparing them for the academic rigor of university.
Subject Content Breakdown
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
GCSE EXAM BOARD: AQA.
Full specification: GCSE Sociology Specification Specification for first teaching in 2017
Paper 1: 1 hour 45 minutes
50% of GCSE qualification
100 marks
Paper 2: 1 hour 45 minutes
50% of GCSE qualification
100 marks
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Paper 1 |
Paper 2 |
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Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13)
A-LEVEL EXAM BOARD: AQA
Full specification: AS and A-level Sociology Specifications for first teaching in 2015
The A-Level Sociology curriculum is divided into three key papers, each designed to build sociological knowledge, analytical skills, and evaluative thinking. These components are assessed through three written exams at the end of the course.
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Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods |
Paper 2: Topics in Sociology |
Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods |
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Section A: Families and Households.
Section B: Beliefs In Society
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Assessment Methods
Teaching Approach and Resources
Teaching Strategies
At GCSE and A-level there are a variety of teaching strategies employed to engage students and develop their knowledge and skills, as well as their resilience and independent learning. This includes inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning and differentiated instruction. Feedback is also used effectively, with students regularly receiving whole class as well as individual feedback.
There is an emphasis on researching contemporary data and reports into social issues via targeted online sites. Students have access to exam board resources which include examiners’ reports and mark schemes, as well as insight from an AQA Team Leader (Examiner) for GCSE Paper 1.
Recommended Texts
GCSE – AQA GCSE 9-1 Sociology, David Bown; Collins AQA GCSE 9-1 Sociology Complete Revision and Practice; Sociology: AQA GCSE (Seneca)
A-level – Napier Press AQA A Level Sociology Book 1 and 2; Sociology for AQA Volume 1 and 2, Ken Browne; Sociology | tutor2u ; The Sociology Guy – Helping students understand society
Extracurricular Activities
Students are encouraged to take part in the Bar Mock Trial at Key Stage 5, as well as engaging in Tutor2U seminars. There are a variety of Sociology in Action conferences which can be attended, as well as Crown Court visits when studying Crime and Deviance. Students are also encouraged to develop their leadership skills at Key Stage 4 and 5 by becoming Subject Ambassadors at Showcase events and Open Evenings.
Career and Further Education Pathways
University Degrees
Sociology provides an excellent grounding to lead on to a variety of university courses offered at leading universities. It can be developed as a single or joint honours degree in subjects such as Sociology, Social Policy, Criminology, Law, Gender Studies, Global Development, Politics or Journalism. The studies at university will build on the critical, analytical and communication skills developed at A level, with a greater emphasis on independent research and autonomy.
Career Prospects
Sociology leads on to a wide variety of careers, particularly those involving working with people. For example, careers in police, probation and criminal justice system; youth work and social services; Local and central government; social and market research; Human resources; public relations; journalism and media and education and teaching.
Apprenticeships & Industry Links
Sociology can also lead to apprenticeships in areas such as social care, policing, government research, public relations, journalism and communication. Work experience in these areas, along with in education, encourages students to gain real-world experience of the issues we study and prepares them for employment and long-term career development.
Studying Sociology enables students not only to develop awareness of the world around them, but to be equipped with the academic and interpersonal skills and confidence to move into the adult world of employment.
Contact & Support
Subject Lead Contact
For any questions regarding the Sociology curriculum, please contact:
Miss Vining viningc@nestonhigh.com