Sociology

Key Information    

Sociology is the study of society and how culture can have an impact on individual’s identities, behaviour and their life chances. 

Assessment

Two Exams. They are 1 hour and 45 minutes long and each one is worth 50% of the course.

Subject information

Students will study key areas relating to:

Socialisation and culture: How do we learn to behave? Are humans the way they are because of nature of nurture?

Families: How has family life changed over time? How have relationships within the family changed? What are the influences on family life?

Education: Why do some students do better than others?  Do teachers treat students differently? If so, why?

Social Inequality: Why do we have poverty in the UK? Do we have equal opportunities? Does sexism, racism and disability discrimination still exist?

Crime and Deviance: Are some people more likely to commit crime than others? Why? Is the Criminal Justice System fair?

Sociological research methods: How do sociologists find out what they do? How should they research this issues mentioned above? How do sociologists choose who to study?

Is this course right for me?

Sociology is usually enjoyed by people who like debating and are comfortable with the notion that there is not always a right or wrong answer. There are lots of key terms and facts to remember, so you will need to revise regularly. The exam includes short-mark questions based on sources of material provided in the exam paper, so you need to be able to select and interpret relevant information. There are also many long-mark questions, which means that you need to be able to structure paragraphs well, but we will support you in preparing for these extended pieces of writing. We do cover delicate issues in sociology, which relate to divorce, domestic violence, other sensitive crimes and topics such as racism. You need to be aware that whilst we appreciate and ask for opinions, the subject needs to be approached in a mature manner and we ask that you respect other peoples’ contributions.

What can this lead to?

Sociology is a subject that is well respected by universities and many people chose to study it at degree level. Sociology qualifications are useful for any ‘people-based’ occupations, including health care and teaching. The research methods element of the course is also helpful for research-based careers, such as working for local governments, charities or universities.

Links

http://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/sociology/gcse/