The British Sociological Association (BSA) defines sociology as:
Sociology is the study of society and social behavior. It examines the structures, processes, and relationships that shape human society and influence the way people behave, think, and interact. Sociologists explore issues such as culture, social norms, institutions, inequality, power, and social change. By investigating how societies function and how individuals and groups are affected by social forces, sociology provides insights into the workings of social systems and addresses a wide range of contemporary social issues.
At Dormers Wells High School we study the AQA sociology specifications. Please use the links below to access the specifications and the course & assessment overview for clarity on our curriculum:
GCSE sociology: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/sociology/gcse/sociology-8192/specification/specification-at-a-glance
A-Level sociology: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/sociology/a-level/sociology-7192/specification/specification-at-a-glance
curriculum overview
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Key stage 4 |
This course develops an understanding of patterns of social life. Students should develop their knowledge of the world in which they live and their ability to understand and analyse it critically. There is a great deal of reading and writing involved in the GCSE so a good standard of English is required.
YEAR 10
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The sociological approach
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Families
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Education
YEAR 11
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Sociological research methods
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Crime and deviance
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Social stratification
Which examination board sets the syllabus?
AQA
What qualification will i get?
GCSE Sociology
Assessment
Students will be assesed by sitting 2 written examinations, both sat in year 11.
The examinations will be 1hr 45mins each. There are three assessment objectives...
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A01 |
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of sociological theories, concepts, evidence and methods.
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A02 |
Apply knowledge and understanding of sociological theories, concepts, evidence and methods.
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A03 |
Analyse and evaluate sociological theories, concepts, evidence and methods in order to construct arguments, make judgements and draw conclusions.
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key stage 5 |
Studying sociology offers insights into social and cultural issues. It helps students to develop a multi-perspective and critical approach to understanding issues around culture, identity, crime, education, beliefs, childhood and families.
The focus of the course is to:
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provide an appropriate foundation for further study of sociology and related subjects in higher education, for example criminology.
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provide a worthwhile course for students of various ages and from diverse backgrounds in terms of general education and lifelong learning.
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prepare a solid foundation for students intending to pursue careers in the field of social sciences.
Exam Board: AQA
Year 1 Subject Content:
Education with Theory and Methods
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Education
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Methods in context
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Research methods
Plus
Year 2 Subject Content
Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods
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Crime and deviance
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Methods in context
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Theory and methods
Plus
Career Opportunities / Routes
Sociology prepares us for life in the 21st century as it develops the skills of investigation, analysis, evaluation and team work. It encourages us to look at the world around us. This course supports students to progress onto university to study sociology, but it also helps in accessing a number of different courses, including medicine and law. The career options available to students who study sociology are wide ranging, it is a great choice for people who want a career in social work, medicine, nursing, law and journalism. In addition, it is useful in a number of other careers such as marketing, advertising, politics, PR or teaching.
Assessment
Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods
Paper 2: Topics in Sociology (families and households & Beliefs in society
Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods
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