Learning

Sociology

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Sociology is the study of human society and social behaviour. In the Sociology Department, students are encouraged to explore how factors such as gender, class, wealth and ethnicity shape education, identity, crime and life chances.

We aim to develop informed, reflective and critical learners who can understand contemporary society and confidently express well-reasoned arguments.

 
Overview of the Curriculum (KS5)

Sociology is offered at A Level, following the AQA Sociology specification (7192). Studying Sociology enables students to analyse social structures and processes in Britain and the wider world while developing valuable analytical, evaluative and research skills.

The course is assessed at the end of Year 13 through three two-hour examinations:

Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods (33.3%)

• Education: short-answer and extended writing (50 marks)

• Methods in Context: extended writing (20 marks)

• Theory and Methods: extended writing (10 marks)

Paper 2: Culture and Identity & Beliefs in Society (33.3%)

• Culture and Identity: extended writing (40 marks)

• Beliefs in Society: extended writing (40 marks)

Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (33.3%)

• Crime and Deviance: short-answer and extended writing (50 marks)

• Theory and Methods: extended writing (30 marks)

Past papers and mark schemes are available via the AQA A-Level Sociology website.

Assessment and Feedback Approach

Students are assessed through a combination of short-answer and extended writing exam questions, requiring the application of sociological theory, analysis of evidence and evaluation of arguments. Throughout the course, regular assessment, exam practice and detailed feedback support students in developing strong written responses and exam technique.

Staff List and Teacher Specialisms

Head of Department: Mrs M. Gousiou

Teaching Staff:

Mr T. Swallow

Examples of Classroom Learning and Student Work

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Resources, Revision Guides & Homework Expectations

To succeed at A Level Sociology, students are expected to work independently and read widely beyond the classroom. Homework supports lesson content and exam preparation, while wider reading develops understanding of current social issues.

Recommended resources include:

• www.revisesociology.com

• The Sociology Teacher (YouTube channel)

• Judith Butler – Gender Trouble

• Owen Jones – Chavs

• Kate Pickett & Richard Wilkinson – The Spirit Level

• Louis Theroux – The Call of the Weird

• Sudhir Venkatesh – Gang Leader for a Day

Regular engagement with newspapers and online news platforms is also strongly encouraged.

Extra-Curricular Clubs and Enrichment Opportunities

The department offers enrichment events that take learning beyond the curriculum, such as a Curriculum to Careers event, where students hear from university students and professionals who have used Sociology in further study and employment. 

The department takes part in an annual Sociology workshop organised by Tutor2u, designed to enhance students’ understanding and support improved performance in their A Level examinations.

The department also shares podcast summaries on key topics such as: 

• Crime

• Education

• Families

• Social Stratification

• Careers in Sociology

Career Pathways Linked to the Subject

Sociology supports progression into a wide range of careers, including: 

• Social work and youth services

• Education and teaching

• Criminal justice and policing

• Journalism and media

• Public policy and government

• Research and academia

• Human resources and business

The subject equips students with transferable skills valued by universities and employers.

Department Achievements

The Sociology Department promotes academic curiosity, strong written communication and critical thinking, enabling students to progress confidently into higher education and employment.

Contact Information

For further information about studying Sociology, please contact Mrs Gousiou: m.gousiou1@kdhigh.co.uk.