Sociology
Can social division ever be eradicated? What leads people into a life of crime? How has the internet transformed the structures and relationships in society? No question is too little or big that Sociology cannot explore.
Sociology asks big questions and examines connections within society. We are used to experiencing rapid changes that happen daily and by studying Sociology we can start to explore why some of these changes take place and what the implications are for us and others.
Throughout history, we have been asking big questions about how we organise our societies, questioning common sense assumption and sociologists have offered explanations and solutions that continue to shape our understanding of our surroundings, roles in society, relationships with others. Sociology is often known as history at present.
Exam Board: AQA | Course Code: 8192
First Teaching: September 2025
What is Sociology?
Sociology is the study of people, power, and society. It helps you understand the world by asking questions like:
• Why do people commit crime?
• Is the education system fair?
• How do class, gender, or ethnicity affect life chances?
• How is family life changing?
• What role does social media play in shaping identity?
Sociologists study institutions like the family, education, and justice system. They use theories and data to uncover patterns, inequalities, and behaviours—helping you think critically and see the world differently.
What Will You Study?
You’ll explore four key areas and learn how to apply sociological theories and research methods. Assessment is through two exams at the end of Year 11 — no coursework.
Year 10 – Understanding Social Processes
Introduction to Sociology
Norms, values, culture, identity, agents of socialisation, class and control
Sociological Perspectives
Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, Interactionism
Research Methods
Primary vs secondary data, qualitative vs quantitative, interviews, sampling
Families and Households
Family types, changing roles, childhood, ageing, theoretical views
Education
Purpose of schooling, achievement gaps, types of schools, policies, inequality
Year 11 – Understanding Social Structures
Crime and Deviance
What is crime? Social control, crime theories, patterns, media, and data
Social Stratification
Class, power, inequality by gender, ethnicity, age, wealth and poverty
Synoptic Thinking and Exam Preparation
Making links across topics, applying methods, extended writing, and revision strategies
What Skills Will You Develop?
You will learn to:
- Think critically and analyse patterns
- Write confidently using theory and evidence
- Debate and evaluate arguments
- Understand different perspectives and experiences
You’ll also build:
- Research and data skills
- Communication and judgement
- Strong extended writing and exam technique
Where Can Sociology Take You?
Excellent preparation for:
- A Levels – Sociology, Psychology, Politics, History and more
- Careers – Law, criminology, education, journalism, policing, business
- Everyday Life – Making sense of society and your place in it
Homework and Extended Learning
Homework is set regularly to build core skills. Tasks include:
- Watching a documentary or reading an article
- Creating mind maps or flashcards
- Researching sociologists
- Answering practice exam questions
Extended learning encourages students to:
- Apply sociology to current news and events
- Explore enrichment tasks (e.g. interviews, sociologist profiles)
- Engage with podcasts, documentaries or other media
