Sociology
Sociology Curriculum Intent and Rationale
“The sociological imagination enables us to grasp history and biography and the relations between the two within society. That is its task and its promise.” - C. Wright Mills
The Sociology curriculum is designed to empower students to look beneath the surface of everyday life. Students are encouraged to explore and debate contemporary social issues. Our intent is to foster "sociological imagination," enabling students to understand the complex relationship between individual experience and the wider social structures that shape our world.
Our curriculum is designed to fulfil the task and promise of sociology. We bridge the gap between the individual and the institution. Sociology provides the understanding of cultural capital necessary for social mobility. It allows students to understand the invisible rules of society in an ever changing world and teaches students skills on how to find objective truth.
Our curriculum is sequenced to build on layers of knowledge. By following the AQA GCSE specification, we start with an introduction to Sociology to provide the theoretical toolkit needed. We move to Families Households, integrating research methods followed by Education. In year 11 students study Crime and Deviance and Social Stratification. This enables students to build on previous learning and develop deeper understanding of the subject.
By integrating the school’s core values, we ensure that every student leaves with more than just a grade:
- Believe: We inspire a belief in the power of agency. Students learn that while society influences them, they have the voice and the tools to challenge inequality and advocate for social justice.
- Achieve: We maintain high academic rigor, ensuring students master the substantive knowledge and evaluative skills required to excel in their GCSEs and transition into further education.
- Succeed: Success is defined by both high GCSE outcomes but also the development of empathetic, critical-thinkers who are prepared to navigate a diverse, globalised world as informed and responsible citizens.
Learning Journey
Curriculum Map
Sociology Super Curricular activities
The Super curricular activities are examples of what you can do to explore Sociology beyond your lessons. While your lesson will teach you the facts, these activities give you the extra edge to truly Achieve. By committing to these it will help you develop the habits of a high-achieving student and resourcefulness to become a more resilient and self-sufficient learner.
How it Supports your achievement:
- Examiners look for students who can apply sociological theories to the real world. By watching the documentaries or reading the articles in this guide, you’ll have a "bank" of modern examples to use in your exam.
- Knowing what is happening in society right now allows you to assess whether older theories are still relevant today.
- Reading higher-level texts helps you understand and use the language of a sociologist, making your 12-mark answers sound more professional and academic.
We aim to ensure you Believe in your ability to think critically, Achieve the marks that reflect your hard work, and Succeed in becoming an informed citizen of the modern world.
