Sociology

The intent of the Sociology curriculum is to ensure that our young sociologists are equipped with the necessary sociological knowledge, concepts, and vocabulary to develop a better understanding of contemporary British society. As Sociology is a new subject for students, we want them to have a good understanding of the basics of the discipline, so they develop a curiosity and interest in the subject.

The Sociology department follows the AQA specification. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by higher education (HE) and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. The course is designed to inspire and engage students by providing a broad and coherent curriculum which develops an understanding of the ideas relating to sociological theories, perspectives and methods and the design of the research used to obtain the data under consideration, including its strengths and limitations. Students study two core themes of socialisation, culture and identity, and social differentiation, power and stratification that are taught through the compulsory topics of education with theory and methods and crime and deviance with theory and methods. The two core themes also provide the thread through the option topics of family and household and the media. Students will understand the significance of conflict, consensus, social structure and social action, and the role of values.

Our curriculum also ensures that students’ disciplinary knowledge develops in an equally advanced way. Each element of the curriculum has been carefully sequenced to aid the acquisition and remembering of key concepts. The development of knowledge, skills and attributes will benefit them to become active and considerate citizens, by developing the qualities of understanding and empathy of diversity. All students will develop highly independent primary and secondary research skills to act as a springboard for further training in whatever curriculum area they choose to pursue. Students will be encouraged to achieve the very highest aspirations both for attainment in Psychology and for their future career aspirations.

What knowledge will be gained?

Students will develop key knowledge of the main schools of thought, sociological themes and perspectives.
Students will develop understanding of the key sociological themes of socialisation, culture and identity, social differentiation, power and stratification.
Students will develop knowledge of the key topics of education, crime and deviance, family and households and the media and their role in contemporary British society.
Students will develop knowledge of how Sociology is considered a social science and will develop an understanding of the different research methods used to support the key sociological perspectives.

What skills will be gained?

Students will be able to use specialist vocabulary.
By evaluating key theories, students will develop the confidence to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they will have to apply this knowledge and evaluate theories.
Students will develop transferable creative skills through planning and designing ethical and feasible research investigations using a wide range of research methods.

What attributes will be gained?

Students will develop care, compassion, and empathy for others.
Students will develop courage by exploring emotionally challenging topics.
Students will develop curiosity by designing, carrying out and analysing investigations.
Students will develop confidence and resilience through being encouraged to aim high.