Sociology
The aim of Sociology Department is to inspire students to be curious about the world around them and develop a greater awareness of the interactions between individuals and institutions.
Intent Statement
At BHGS we aim to provide a curriculum of sociological study to inspire curiosity and develop the knowledge and skills our students need to make critically informed judgements about society in the UK today. The study of Sociology also involves looking back on how society has developed and suggesting how it may continue to evolve. It is designed to be ambitious, engage students in sociological enquiry and rich knowledge, so that they become confident, knowledgeable sociologists. We expect students to understand the significance of Sociology, its relevance for understanding societies and its importance in developing tolerance, respect and equality. The A Level has strong links to British values and SMSC as it teaches traditional British values as a core element of the course and students actively learn about democracy, individual liberty, rule of law and mutual respect within the topics studied.
We endeavour to challenge all students to be the best they can become, by working independently and collaboratively to develop critically informed, substantiated judgements using a core knowledge of sociological theories, themes and concepts to underpin understanding and reasoning. Pupils will have opportunities to think deeply, accelerating their students’ understanding of the world around them, giving them an appreciation for, and engagement with, the common and differing experiences of societies in the past and today. Learners will critically question information in the modern world and challenge discrimination and prejudice, equipping students with ambition and aspirations so that they become happy, successful and curious members of society.
Curriculum
Year 12 & 13: AQA Linear A Level Sociology (7192)
The central focus of study is on UK society today, with consideration given to comparative dimensions where relevant, including the siting of UK society within its globalised context.
Year 12:
- Education with Theory and Methods (Paper 1)
- Topics in Sociology: Families and Households (Paper 2)
Year 13:
- Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (Paper 3)
- Topics in Sociology: Media (Paper 2)
Assessments:
- All three exam papers are sat at the end of the two year course.
- Ongoing teacher assessment
- In class assessments
- Mock exams in Year 12 and Year 13
Visits/Extra Curricular
- Sociology in Action – https://educationinaction.org.uk/study-day/sociology-in-action-4-11-2022/
- Royal Courts of Justice (mock trial)
- True crime workshop (The University of Law)
Further Information
AQA website: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/sociology/as-and-a-level/sociology-7191-7192/subject-content-a-level
Sociology Central: http://www.sociology.org.uk/index.htm
Revise Sociology: https://revisesociology.com/good-sociology-sites/
BBC news: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news
Sociology is studied through a variety of methods: film, case studies and documentaries are just a few examples. Students can expect to take part in group work, discussions, written assignments and presentations.
Google classroom is used to recommend articles, TV programmes, podcasts, exhibitions, wider reading, and additional courses that the department feels would develop students understanding of various topics.
We have a subscription to Sociology Review.
