AQA Sociology GCSE – 8192
My students often ask me, 'What is sociology?' And I tell them, 'It's the study of the way in which human beings are shaped by things that they don't see.'
Sam Richards
What is sociology?
Sociology is the study of the society in which we live and it examines how we are influenced and shaped through being members of groups and organisation. Sociology is a challenging, academic subject and, as such, is highly regarded by universities and employers.
The function of sociology, as of every science, is to reveal that which is hidden.
Pierre Bourdieu
Why should I study Sociology?
Sociologists study people in society, looking at small groups like the immediate family, larger ones like a school or workplace, very large institutions like the education system or the political system, and whole societies like Scotland or Britain. Put simply, sociology is the attempt to understand how society works. It provides description and analysis of the patterns and structures in human relationships, and encourages us to see the world through the eyes of other people. KBA students will investigate the democratic process in making anti-discrimination legislation, family law, and educational policies and will gain a stronger understanding of our criminal justice system.
Theory not only formulates what we know but also tells us what we want to know, that is, the questions to which an answer is needed.
Talcott Parsons
What skills can be gained from the course?
KBA Sociology students are encouraged to think independently and approach new subjects with an enquiring mind. They will develop skills of:
Communicate: both spoken and written.
Critical and analytical thinking skills
An ability to interpret information, formulate questions and solve problems
Asking questions about the world we live in
Evaluating evidence and making Judgements
Understand patterns, trends and behaviour of people in society
Personal reflection of your place and role in society
The ability to express complex ideas from sociological perspectives
Researching society using sociological methodology
Sociology can lead to a variety of careers including jobs in advertising, media, journalism, careers guidance, social services, medicine, the civil service, the police and teaching amongst many others. It can also lead to a wide range of degree level subjects.
What's assessed?
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Paper 1 exam
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Paper 2 exam
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The sociology of families
The sociology of education
Relevant areas of social theory and methodology
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The sociology of crime and deviance
The sociology of social stratification
Relevant areas of social theory and methodology
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How it's assessed
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TWO Written exams: 1 hour 45 minutes
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100 marks each exam
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100% of GCSE
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