Sociology

Exam Board: AQA

Sociology means learning about people and society. From birth, the people around us have influenced who we are and what we become. As a sociologist, you will study the society we live in and try to understand what makes people behave in certain ways, hold particular beliefs and what influences them to make their individual life choices. You will participate in research and discussion as well as developing your ability to analyse and present your findings in essays.

In Year 1

Research methods – Looking at how data can be collected and evaluating methods such as interviews, questionnaires and experiments.

Education – Students look at theories relating to education and link in their work on research methods to look at studies in education.

Family and Households – Students look at family types and the role of the family in socialisation.

In Year 2

Crime and deviance—Students look at the issue of crime in society including the roles of gender , ethnicity and class influencing crime.

Beliefs in society – The relationship and influence between and on religion including mainstream as well as cults, sects and new age movements

Assessment

100% examination

Requirements

Must have an interest in ‘what makes society work’.
An ability to read extensively outside of the classroom and complete independent learning of other kinds.

Must have a good written style and willingness to write extended essays.

Knowledge and competence in statistical mathematics.

Grade 5 in English Language or grade 5 in Philosophy and Ethics (if studied) are desirable.

Where can it lead?

The course would lead to higher education opportunities, such as studying social sciences, criminology, politics or social policy. I t could lead to careers in policy making in the government, social work, researcher posts or teaching.