Sociology

In the Sociology Department, we teach students how to study society. Sociology is concerned with the relationship between individuals and groups in society.   

In order to increase our understanding of human behaviour, sociologists use research to identify what people do, and sociological theory to explain the meaning of what they do.  

Sociology GCSE requires students to communicate their ideas clearly, especially in written form, and to think critically and reflectively about complex issues in society.   

The topics that students study are focused on two key themes:   

•How people’s behaviour is influenced by social institutions such as the family, education and the media;   

•How people’s experiences vary depending on the different social groups they belong to such as social class, ethnicity, gender and age.  

GCSE Sociology is a linear qualification, which means exams take place at the end of year 11. It is assessed through examinations in which consist of structured questions plus several essay-based questions.  

Paper 1:  1 hour 45 minutes on - The sociology of families, the sociology of education, Relevant areas of social theory and methodology 

Paper 2: 1 hour 45 minutes on – The sociology of crime and deviance, The sociology of social stratification, Relevant areas of social theory and methodology