Sociology

Course summary

The study of Sociology at Key Stage 5 allows students to acquire knowledge and critical understanding of contemporary society and social changes. Students have the opportunity to develop a broad set of desirable key skills, including the ability to analyze and formulate clear, logical arguments, develop strong critical thinking skills, and consider issues with a global outlook. This course will allow students who have taken GCSE Sociology to capitalize on their understanding of key issues within sociology whilst adding depth and breadth. For example, the GCSE question of “How are life chances affected by social class?” is now expanded to include the concepts of social mobility, vertical and horizontal segregation, the digital divide, and the impact of isolation and marginalization. Students who are new to the subject will initially learn the key language of sociology and then adapt it to the higher-level material. Transferable skills are learned within the context of contemporary issues, from critically considering the role of the media in shaping public opinion to using their digital footprint to their advantage inprofessional settings.