Sociology

Sociology, in the broadest sense, is the study of society. Sociology examines how humans interact with each other and how human behaviour is shaped by social structures (groups, communities, organizations), social categories (age, sex, class, race for example), and social institutions (politics, religion, education, etc.).

The basic foundation of sociology is the belief that a person's attitudes, actions, and opportunities are shaped by all of these aspects of society.

Understanding human society and how social systems work helps us navigate life as individuals and as part of society.  Sociology does this by developing students’ knowledge base about human behaviour, social organisation and change and by developing research skills.  Furthermore, there is a large emphasis on values; connecting students to the British values expected in the curriculum. 

Key Stage 4

Sociology is taught in mixed ability groups with well-planned and differentiated lessons. There is support with lunch time and after school HW clubs and stretch and challenge for ambitious students. We follow the Eduqas GCSE specification.

What will students learn?

Year 10

Year 11

Term 1

  • What is Sociology?  Culture and socialisation
  • Families

 

Term 2

  • Families continued
  • Education

 

Term 3

  • Education continued
  • Research Methods
  • Component 1 exam revision

 

Term 1

  • Stratification

Term 2

  • Crime and Deviance
  • Research Methods for Component 2

 

Term 3

  • Revision

How is the course assessed?

There are two exam papers, Component 1, understanding social processes, and Component 2, understanding social structures.  There is an emphasis on using Sociological language and key terms in written answers and demonstrating a grasp of the main theoretical approaches. Students have end of unit assessments providing them with formative and summative assessment.  Exam practice is woven into Y11 lessons to build experience and resilience.