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A-LEVEL SOCIOLOGY

Sociology is the study of the workings of and influences upon society. Core themes covered in the course include culture, identity, and social differentiation (including power and social stratification). The subject involves an understanding of the ideas and theories of sociology, as well as the research methods used to assess specific questions.
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WHAT IS SOCIOLOGY?

At A-Level, the central focus of Sociology is contemporary UK society, and the various influences upon social norms and development. There is also an emphasis on how sociologists work, looking at qualitative and quantitative research methods, the design of research, and sources of data alongside their analysis. Students will look at a variety of issues related to education, families and households, health, work, poverty and welfare, beliefs, the media, and global developments. There will also be an emphasis on crime and deviance.
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HOW IS IT STUDIED?

AQA A-Level Sociology is taught within the two-year programme.

 

Sociology is taught in small groups to allow students an opportunity to develop and debate their understanding through class discussion. Each topic is explored through an analysis of sociological theory with practical case studies or examples. These allow students to apply theory and to test its appropriateness in assessing real-life situations. Emphasis is placed on both short answers and more extended writing to develop the students’ ability to meet the examination criteria.

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HOW IS A-LEVEL SOCIOLOGY ASSESSED?

Unit Modules Weighting Format
1 Education with Theory and Methods 33.3% External Exam: 2 hours
2 Topics in Sociology 33.3% External Exam: 2 hours
3 Crime and Deviance 33.3% External Exam: 2 hours


Exam Board: AQA

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WHAT DO I NEED TO STUDY IT?

5 GCSEs grade 5 or above including Maths and English or equivalent international qualifications.

For international students who have taken IELTS, we require an overall score of 5.5 with a minimum of 5.5 for each of the reading and writing components.

For international students who have taken IGCSE English (Second Language), we require grade 5 or above.

There is no requirement to have studied sociology before starting A-Level, but an interest in society and issues affecting it is important, as is some awareness of the key issues affecting UK society at present. An ability to form, write and support a clear and precise argument is essential.

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WHAT SHOULD I STUDY WITH SOCIOLOGY?

Sociology complements a very broad range of subjects. Having elements of sciences and humanities subjects, it adds a range of skills to many subject combinations, such as Business, Economics, Politics, History and Psychology.
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WHAT CAN I DO WITH A-LEVEL SOCIOLOGY?

Many students continue to study Sociology at university or in conjunction with a broad range of courses. As the subject helps students understand society, it supports a wide range of subjects.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE COURSE

  • Is it possible to study Sociology in one year?
    Yes, alongside the one year BTEC Business programme as part of the College’s BTEC+ course or as an entirely new A-Level on its own.