Sociology

Sociology Summary

A-level Sociology is the study of human society and social interaction shapes today’s world. Students will look at how society influences human behaviour through the study of perspectives such as Marxism, Functionalism and Feminism. The first year of the course looks at how education can impact achievement and attainment in people’s lives, considering factors like class, gender and race. Students will also explore how these issues can be investigated and understood through research methods. Students will then explode a topic about Family in the second half of Year 12, where they will look how family structures change over time and what factors influence the role and diversity of
families. In Year 13, Students will learn about Crime and Deviance in society followed by how The New Media has affected the way in which society is shaped.

Entry Requirements

5 x grade 5 or above (including GCSE Maths and English Language) 

Grade 5 in an essay-based subject i.e English Literature, History, Geography, Religious Studies etc 

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA

How you will study

Examination consists of 3 essay-based papers, ranging from 4-30 marks across the examination series. To prepare for this, students will be required to draw upon their analytical and evaluative skills in order to construct detailed arguments to compare the views of different groups and the role of different factors in shaping today’s society. Students will be expected to take an active role in the lesson and to develop their independent learning skills to ensure all lesson content is committed to memory so that application can take place effectively. Students will be required to undertake sociological research and design this accordingly to ensure sound understanding of the methods used to investigate society.

Component breakdown

Paper 1- Education with Theory and Methods (33.3% of A-Level) 

Paper 2- Topics in Sociology (33.3% of A-Level) 

Paper 3- Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (33.3% of A-Level) 

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