Sociology

The main focus is to outline the role of sociological perspectives in understanding and explaining patterns of social life.
The study of sociology must focus on contemporary society and foster the development of critical and reflective thinking with a respect for social diversity. It must provide an awareness of the importance of social structure and social action in explaining social issues. Students must be encouraged to develop their own sociological awareness through active engagement with the contemporary social world.

Term 1 to Term 6

Students will study the topic of Education, which will offer them a deep dive into how schools and colleges operate within society. We explore the fundamental role and purpose of education, examining its connections to the economy and how it influences social class structures. A key focus is understanding why different social groups—based on social class, gender, and ethnicity—experience varying levels of educational achievement. Students will also investigate the intricate relationships and processes within schools, including teacher-pupil dynamics, student identities, the "hidden curriculum," and teaching methods. Finally, we analyse the significance of educational policies, such as selection, marketisation, and privatisation, and their impact on access to and experiences within the education system, alongside the influence of globalisation on policy decisions.

Students will study the topic of Families and Households, in which they will explore the fascinating world of family life and its place in broader society. Students will investigate how the family interacts with social structures like the economy and government policies, and how it adapts to social change. We examine evolving patterns in marriage, cohabitation, divorce, and childbearing, alongside the diverse range of family and household structures present in modern society, including the sociology of personal relationships. The unit also delves into gender roles, domestic labour, and power dynamics within families, as well as understanding the changing nature of childhood and children's status. Finally, students will analyse significant demographic trends in the UK since 1900, such as shifts in birth and death rates, family size, life expectancy, the ageing population, and the impact of migration and globalisation on family life.

How is the course assessed?

At the end of Year 13, students will sit 3 exams covering all content from Year 12 and Year 13:
Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods - 2-hour Written exam (33.3% of A Level)
Paper 2: Topics in Sociology - 2-hour Written exam (33.3% of A Level)
Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Method - 2-hour Written exam (33.3% of A Level)
 

Building on the foundations laid in Year 12, this year delves deeper into complex sociological concepts and contemporary issues, equipping students with advanced analytical skills and a critical understanding of the world around them. Our focus will be on exploring key institutions, social problems, and the theoretical frameworks that help us make sense of society.

Term 1 to Term 6

Students will study the topic of Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods. This core unit examines the nature of crime and deviance, exploring why people commit crimes and how society responds. It also integrates a deeper understanding of sociological theories and research methods.

• What is crime and deviance?: Defining these concepts and understanding their social construction.
• Sociological explanations of crime: Applying different theories (e.g., Functionalism, Marxism, Interactionism, Realism) to understand the causes of crime and deviance.
• Social distribution of crime: Investigating patterns of crime in relation to social class, gender, ethnicity, and age.
• Globalisation, crime and the media: Exploring the impact of global interconnectedness on crime, and how crime is portrayed and influenced by the media.
• Control, punishment and victims: Examining the role of the criminal justice system, different forms of punishment, and the experiences of victims.
• Applying sociological theory: Consolidating understanding of major sociological perspectives (Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, Postmodernism, etc.) and applying them across various topics.
• Advanced research methods: Deepening knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including their strengths, limitations, and ethical considerations. Students will learn to evaluate sociological research critically.

Students will study the topic of the media. This unit explores the powerful role of the media in contemporary society, examining its influence on our understanding of the world and our social interactions.

• What is the media?: Defining different forms of media, from traditional to new digital platforms.
• Theories of media: Analysing how sociological perspectives (e.g., Pluralism, Marxism, Postmodernism) explain the ownership, control, and influence of the media.
• Media representation: Investigating how different social groups (e.g., by class, gender, ethnicity, age) are portrayed in the media and the impact of these representations.
• Media Effects: Debating the Extent to Which the Media Shapes Our Attitudes, Beliefs, and Behaviours.
• Globalisation and the media: Exploring the impact of global media flows and digital technologies on culture and society.
• New Media and Social Change: Examining the Rise of Social Media and Its Role in Political Participation, Social Movements, and Identity Formation.

How is the course assessed?

At the end of Year 13, students will sit 3 exams covering all content from Year 12 and Year 13:
Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods - 2-hour Written exam (33.3% of A Level)
Paper 2: Topics in Sociology - 2-hour Written exam (33.3% of A Level)
Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Method - 2-hour Written exam (33.3% of A Level)