The course has a strong focus on contemporary UK society, examining its place in a global context. Students study the nature of sociological thought, including concepts such as social order; social control; social change; conflict; and consensus. They also learn methods of sociological inquiry, including research techniques; and practical and ethical issues in collecting data. In Year 12, the study includes the compulsory topics of Education with Methods in Context and Families and Households with Research Methods. In Year 13, students explore the compulsory topic of Crime and Deviance. Students also study beliefs in society and will be expected to show more range and depth of knowledge and understanding than Year 12 students, together with more highly developed skills in analysis, interpretation, and evaluation.