What specification is proposed? 

AQA A Level Sociology 

What will I be covering in the course in Year 12? 

Unit 1 – Education with research methods 

Students will study the critical and positive view of education, the role and functions of the education system, relationships and processes within schools between students and teachers, and the significance of educational policies. 

Unit 2 – Families and Households 

Students will study the theoretical approaches to the family and the way gender roles are changing. Students will discuss issues around the changing nature of the family including demography and the effect of state policy. This topic will also cover sensitive topical debates such as domestic abuse and the changing nature of childhood. 

What will I be covering in the course in Year 13? 

Unit 2 – Beliefs in society 

Students will study the links between religion, science and ideology. The course will look at the structures and organisation of cults, New Age movements and social stability focusing on spiritual belief and practice. Students will study the effects of secularisation and globalisation on society. 

Unit 3 – Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods 

Students will study the difference between crime and deviance and will learn about the issues in researching deviance. This topic shall focus on explaining and examining crime rates, punishment and rehabilitation of criminals. The theory extends much deeper during this topic, concentrating on the extent to which sociology can be classed as a science, and the links to social policy. 

How will I be assessed? 

3 x written papers – 2 hours each. Each paper is equally weighted and worth 33% of the overall A-level. Assessment will consiste of shorter response questions, longer essay style responses and application style questions. 

What can I do with this subject? 

A Level Sociology is recognised as an academic A Level by all universities so will help you in securing a degree course. It provides an excellent foundation for anyone wishing to pursue a career in various job sectors, including social work, education, national and international NGOs and any aspect of the criminal justice system. The A Level also develops excellent research skills that can be transferred to many degree courses and jobs. 

Specific entry requirements for this course 

Grade 6 in GCSE English (Literature/Language), if not studied at GCSE. If studied at GCSE a grade 6 in Sociology is required. There is no expectation to have studied Sociology at GCSE to successfully study the A-level. 

Learning Journey

Sociology Year 12 Learning Journey – Autumn and Spring (Families)

Sociology Year 12 Learning Journey – Autumn and Spring (Education)

Sociology Year 12 Learning Journey Summer RM AND MIC

Sociology Year 12 Learning Journey Summer Theories

Sociology Year 13 Learning Journey – Autumn (Theories)

Sociology Year 13 Learning Journey – Autumn 2 and Spring (Beliefs)

Sociology Year 13 Learning Journey – Autumn and Spring 1 (Crime)