Sociology is the study of human social relationships and institutions. Sociology’s subject matter is diverse, ranging from crime to religion, the family to the state, from the divisions of race and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture, and from social stability to radical change in whole societies. In the Sociology department we seek to develop within our students an awareness of society and the key issues that affect people who live within it. The subject builds an understanding of inequalities and encourages a love of different cultures and social groups. The aim is that our students will develop knowledge and empathy that will enable them to make positive contributions to society throughout their lives.
AQA GCSE Sociology 8192
Sociology is an option choice at KS4 which is taught over two years, starting in Year 10 and is assessed at the end of Year 11. The topics covered include
• The Sociological Approach
• Social Structures, Social Problems and Social Issues
• Families
• Education
• Crime and Deviance
• Social Stratification
• Sociological Research Methods.
The course is aimed at helping students acquire subject knowledge, as well as developing their understanding of the interdependence between individuals, groups, institutions and societies. It also encourages an understanding of the nature and significance of cooperation and conflict, and continuity and change, including individual and social differences in the students' own and other societies. Sociology at KS4 is also a good preparation for A level study as it encourages students to analyse critically the nature and source of information and to base judgements and arguments on evidence.
AQA GCE Sociology 7192
Sociology is a two-year course which is assessed by three 2-hour exams at the end of Year 13.
The topics covered include
• Families and Households
• Education and Sociological Methods
• Beliefs in Society
• Crime and Deviance and Sociological Theories and methods.
At A level students develop a much more in-depth understanding of Sociological theory as applied to each topic area and are expected to know a range of studies that have been carried out. There is also an emphasis on ‘active sociology’ as we encourage students to conduct their own mini research projects and apply sociology to current affairs events. By the end of Year 13 students should be developing a ‘Sociological imagination’.
There are numerous opportunities for Sociology students of all ages to attend conferences to hear academics present their recent findings. One such conference is 'Continuing with the theme of crime'. The department also organises a visit to 'The Old Bailey' for Year 13 students. We encourage our students to watch 'live' debate shows to help develop their evaluative skills.
Additional enrichment activities include the biennial trip to New York.
The Sociology Department offers numerous support sessions throughout the year to help with independent learning, exam technique and revision.