Sociology is taught by two teachers ~ Mr Tanner and Mr Galoria.

 

Sociology is the scientific study of society. We aim to help pupils to understand why society works in the way that it does and the extent to which our behaviour – and opportunities – can be shaped by our social class, age, gender and race. Sociology allows pupils to analyse the society in which we live and encourages young people to question the relationship between individuals and institutions. Through the study of Sociology, pupils are taught that there are no right or wrong answers when studying how people live together. They learn some of the methodologies used in social theory and thus develop their ability to analyse and evaluate evidence. At the beginning of Year 10, students are taught the basic skills, knowledge and understanding of Sociology. All of the topics will involve teaching pupils something of how to conduct a research project in sociology.

 

Pupils follow the OCR GCSE syllabus. The GCSE is divided into three sections, where each section has a different emphasis.

In Year 10 pupils study Sociology for three hours a week and prepare for two exam papers. 

1.       Sociology Basics (25%). This section develops an understanding of sociological evidence and research processes. The assessment for this section comprises a 60 minute examination.

2.       Research Techniques (25%). This section is assessed through a 60 minute examination, which comprises two sections based on pre-released investigation

 

In Year 11 pupils study Sociology for two hours a week and prepare for one exam paper accounting for 50% of the GCSE marks. It is also possible to re-sit the exams taken in Year 10.

1.       Socialisation, Culture and Identity (50%). This section is where we study three of the six optional sections (family, mass media, education, work, crime and deviance and youth).

 

Marking pupils’ work and discussion of progress with pupils are the primary methods by which teachers monitor the progress of pupils. All written work produced either in class or for homework, is marked or discussed.  Peer marking is an important element in the assessment process. Additionally pupils are given feedback on their contributions to the varied oral activities undertaken during the course. The Sociology department has a diagnostic marking policy.  We aim to give positive comments in appropriate language whilst informing the pupils how they could improve the quality of their work and reach a higher grade in the subject. 
 

Results at end of Key Stage 4 (A*-C)

	2009	2010	2011
Sociology	55%	40%	64%