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Sociology (A Level)

Course Overview

Sociology is about the study of societies, how they work and how they change. You will learn how societies shape people’s ideas and behaviour and how in turn, people interact and shape their societies. You will also have the chance to consider your own experience of the world around you and develop the knowledge and skills needed to play a part within the community.

Many students go on to Higher Education and have followed diverse ranges of degrees, Maths, Social Sciences, Law, Business, Medicine, Media, English, Criminology, Education, Biology, etc. Students are better equipped to express their views, present balanced arguments and have an analytical, evaluative mind. Other students who have pursued a career at 18 have gone to work in Insurance, Law, Administration, Police, etc.

Entry Requirements

5 in English Language.

Qualities Required

Students need an open and enquiring mind, an interest in current affairs and the social issues of today.

Links with Other Subjects

Sociology is a Social Science and therefore combines well with both Science and Arts based subjects. For example, students have combined Maths, Chemistry and Sociology or English, History and Sociology, along with various other permutations.

Exam Board

AQA

Method of Assessment

A Level:
Unit 1 Education with Theory and Methods: 2hour Exam
Unit 2 Families and Households and Beliefs in Society: 2hour Exam
Unit 3 Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods: 2hour Exam.

A level 

Topics covered at A level:

  • Unit 1 Education with Theory and Methods Key questions include – Is human action a consequence of society?
  • Unit 2 Families and Households and Beliefs in Society Key questions include – Is family breakdown now the norm? Will religious fundamentalism transform secular societies?
  • Unit 3 Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods Key questions include – Why do individuals break the law?