Sociology
Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behaviour. It focuses on social relationships and interactions between people and is concerned with the influence of institutions on our behaviour such as the influence of our families and the education system.
Sociology is concerned with describing and explaining the patterns of difference, deprivation and conflict in society and addresses key concerns within society including racial, class and gender inequalities. It encourages students to think critically about the world they live in and to examine society from a range of different perspectives.
Entry Requirements
A Level Sociology does not require any prior knowledge of Sociology. However, the course is assessed through essay-based questions therefore there is a requirement for students to have a good grasp of the English language. To be successful in the course, it is useful for students to have a well-rounded knowledge of current events occurring in society.
The general Thornleigh Sixth Form entry criteria will be applied.
What will I Study?
The A Level introduces students to the fundamentals of Sociology including sociological perspectives, research processes and key debates including: micro vs macro and consensus vs conflict. This course encourages students to develop skills such as critical analysis, independent thinking and research skills.
Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods (Education, Methods in Context and Theory and Methods).
Paper 2: Topics in Sociology (Families and Households and Mass Media).
Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (Crime and Deviance, Theory and Methods).
Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?
The exam board is AQA.
Click here to access the exam board webpage for this specification.
There will be 3 exam papers at the end of the course.
Each paper is 2 hours long and worth 80 marks.
Paper one consists of short answer and extended writing questions.
Paper two consists of extended writing questions.
Paper three consists of short answer and extended writing questions.
Students are assessed on the following assessment objectives across all three papers: A01 knowledge and understanding skills, A02 application skills and A03 analysis and evaluation skills.
Where could this subject take me?
Studying Sociology opens up a range of careers in areas such as welfare, education and social research. The traditional route for Sociology graduates is often social work or a job within the public sector. However, many Sociology graduates go into a wider range of occupations. Careers linked specifically to a Sociology degree include: Teaching, Youth Workers, Police officers, Marketing executives, advice workers and social researchers. Careers in which a Sociology degree may be useful include: Journalism, Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Law, Probation officer and Civil Service Administrator.
How can I get ahead in this subject
Popular Sociology books include:
Sociology for AQA volume 1 and 2 by Ken Browne
Tutor2u AQA A-Level revision guides
The Color purple by Alice Walker
Chavs: The demonization of the working class by Owen Jones
Gang leader for a day by Sudhir Venkatesh
Places to visit include:
The local Crown Court
Shrewsbury Prison
International Slavery Museum, Liverpool
Good podcasts include:
Related Courses
Discover complementary subjects that enhance your learning, broaden your skills, and open up exciting future study and career opportunities.
Biology
A Level
A Level Biology will give students an exciting insight into the contemporary world of biology. This course covers the key concepts of biology and the development of practical skills are integrated
Computer Science
A Level
Students study the design, development and analysis of software and hardware used to solve problems in a variety of business, scientific and social contexts. Computers solve problems to serve people
Sociology
Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behaviour. It focuses on social relationships and interactions between people and is concerned with the influence of institutions on our
English Language
A Level
English Language at A-Level is a rich and rewarding subject that explores how language shapes who we are, how we think, and how we interact with the world around us. Students will investigate how
Philosophy, Ethics & Religion
A Level
Socrates is believed to have said, “the unexamined life is not worth living!” The A level course in Philosophy, Ethics and Religion encourages you to examine questions that human beings have been
Spanish
A Level
The A Level specification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE. It constitutes an integrated study with a focus on language, culture and society. It fosters a range of
Health & Social Care
BTEC
This qualification is part of the suite of Health and Social Care qualifications offered by Pearson. The course aims to give students wanting to enter into the sector the basis for degree level
Maths
A Level
The A Level course builds upon the ideas that have been learnt and understood at GCSE as well as advancing into the modelling applications of mathematics. A Level Maths aims to develop analytic
Performing Arts
BTEC
This course is perfect for those who enjoy performing! It is an extremely practical course where you will be expected to be confident performing in front of others. This course is the equivalent of
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Completing an EPQ is an opportunity for students to explore interests, skills and subjects outside and beyond A-level courses to give students the competitive edge in applications and interviews for
Economics
A Level
The Edexcel A Level Economics curriculum aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and theories, enabling them to analyse and interpret economic issues and
Test Course
A Level
Lorem Et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas. Duis tristique sollicitudin nibh sit amet. Et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas. Duis tristique sollicitudin nibh sit amet. Condimentum