Sociology
Overview
The course introduces students to Sociology as a study of human society. Sociology looks at the way in which people’s behaviour, beliefs and identity are shaped. As a social science, it looks at what happens in the world in a scientific and unemotional way. This subject facilitates students’ learning and understanding of how we organised our own lives and why we behave as we do.
The analysis of ideas is fundamental to Sociology; the ability to question and hypothesize is crucial. The Sociology department at EGA aims to foster these skills in our students in order to enable and encourage them in their journey of experimentation and discovery, through a variety of experiences and activities.
Curriculum Content
Examination board:
WJEC/ Eduqas (England)
The WJEC Eduqas GCSE in Sociology is designed to foster in learners an understanding and critical awareness of the social world around them. The specification focuses on the importance of social structure in explaining social issues.
This specification will develop learners' ability to think sociologically in relation to their experience of the social world around them so that they are able to play a positive, active and informed role in society..
Examination details: 100% Exam
Two written assessments with a mix of short answer, structured questions and extended response questions, all compulsory. The extended response questions will require candidates to draw together different areas of knowledge, skills and/or understanding from across the relevant specification content.
Paper 1 : (50%) 1 hour and 45 minutes
This component covers the following topic areas:
Key concepts and processes of cultural transmission
Introduces you to key sociological ideas and terms. You will explore how a society learns their culture, gender and identity.
Families
Examines the importance of family life and the changing roles and structure of family today.
Education
Highlights the role of the British Education system and explores the relationship between gender, class and race and academic achievement.
Sociological research methods
Introduces you to a range of research methods such as interviews, observations and experiments used by Sociologists to create theories .
Paper 2: (50 %) 1 hour and 45 minutes
This component covers the following topic areas:
Social differentiation and stratification
Dissects inequalities experienced in society by people on the basis of age, disability, class, race and gender.
Crime and Deviance
Explores the difference between crime and deviance and how the behaviour of society is controlled.
Applied methods of Sociological enquiry
Encourages students to think like a Sociologist. You will plan and conduct your own social research in preparation for the exam.
Recommended Resources for GCSE Sociology
WJEC Eduqas GCSE Sociology Revision Guide
Publisher: Illuminate Publishing
Author: Kathrn Bowman & Steve Tivey
ISBN: 978911208907
WJEC Eduqas GCSE Sociology
Publisher: Illuminate Publishing
Author Steve Tivey & Marion Davies
ISBN: 978911208204
https://resources.eduqas.co.uk/Pages/ResourceSingle.aspx?rIid=1062
https://getrevising.co.uk/resources/level/gcse
Ways for parents to support learning
Contact
Please contact the Head of Sociology, admin@egas.islington.sch.uk, if you would like more information about the course.