What do we Study?

Why is it that certain sections of society are more likely to see criminal activity? Why do females do better in examinations than males? Why do some people earn vast amounts of money and some cannot even get a job? Does class really make a difference to life chances? Is religion still relevant in Britain today? How do we learn to behave in an acceptable way? How does society work? Or does society work? A simple definition of Sociology is that it is the study of people in social groups. It examines the effects of people living in social groups and investigates the different ideas about how society functions.

In Year 12, we examine how culture is formed, the process of socialisation, Individual identity and socialisation, Sociology of the Family and Education with Research methods. 

In Year 13, we study Sociology of Belief Systems, Sociology of Crime and Deviance with Research Methods

At the end of Year 13, there are 3 modules to be examined in 3 separate exams. Each exam is worth 80 marks and each comprises one third of the final grade. Questions will range from 4 to 30 marks each. There is no coursework or controlled assessments. Essay writing is an essential skill in all these examinations. Extended reading and essay writing is an essential aspect of the course.

Complementary Courses There are a number of subjects that will work effectively with Sociology in terms of skills and/or content including English, History, Government and Politics, RE and Psychology. 

Where it might lead

How will this course benefit you? It will help students to develop an awareness of the society they are living in. Furthermore, the course gives students the opportunity to develop valuable transferable skills such as essay writing, planning, analysis and evaluation whilst making links across all subjects.