SubjectsSociology

The Sociology Department aims to ensure all students reach and fulfil their potential. This means, scaffolding the teaching and learning from top-band concepts, but differentiating the processes of this enough to ensure all students have equal opportunity to learn the organic analogy of society. Students will evaluate each organ (institution) of the organic analogy such as Beliefs in Society, using sociological classical perspectives such as Functionalism and Marxism. Students will further evaluate using modern theories such as Postmodernism and Social Action theory to compare past and present ways of viewing the global world. 

Students should feel confident in applying the skills taught and be enthusiastic practitioners looking to pursue a career or University course in the subject. This course looks to maximise the full potential of each student and provides opportunities for self-reflection and evaluation throughout.  

The Key Stage 5 curriculum in Sociology is characterised by key skills and questions throughout the topics covered. Given the more demanding nature of this A Level course, there is an expectation for all key questions to be answered within a cycle. For example in Year 13 Cycle 1, students are required to answer all of the following questions: How do we define religious beliefs? How are religious beliefs organised and categorised? What is the function of beliefs according to different sociological perspectives?’ To answer these key questions students must be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of sociological theories on beliefs, concepts, and studies etc, apply sociological theories, concepts, and evidence to the key questions and analyse and evaluate sociological theories, concepts, evidence to present arguments, make judgements and conclude, all of which are the key skills for this cycle. This deeper level of understanding is required to ensure that all students are prepared for the next phase of their careers– whether this be directly into a job role, further training or university.