Sociology

Sociology

Sociology GCSE (EDUQAS)

What will you learn / How will you be taught?

The Sociology GCSE course is split into two components, both containing three separate units.

Component 1 (Understanding Social Structures) delves into the way that aspects of society work together. For example, Unit 1 (Key concepts and process of cultural transmission) includes looking into what makes us human, discussing how we are socialised by our parents, friends and school and how we learn to belong in a specific culture. It also includes different types of family structures and how education works in the UK. The component will allow you to think critically about the society you live in and how you came to be who you are. You will also gain a deeper understanding of how society is run, and which inequalities exist in the world. You will also learn valuable essay-writing skills, which will prepare you for GCSEs, A-levels and further study.

Component 2 (Understanding Social Processes) looks deeper into the darker side of society, including the reasons for crime and how society deals with this. It also describes the inequalities faced in society, such as gender inequality, racism, homophobia and poverty. This component will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of why inequality exists and the theories around whether inequality is beneficial or detrimental for society. Again, this component (completed in the second year of study) improves essay writing skills and a stronger vocabulary, but it also allows you to recognize the inequalities faced in society and discuss how some these inequalities can be minimized. These critical thinking skills will keep being useful during your time in school and further education.

Why study this subject?

Sociology will fundamentally ask you to challenge your understanding of how the world works. It is vitally important to understand the society in which we live. The course allows you to examine in detail what makes our society and explain the structures that keep society running.

One of the main reasons to study Sociology is because it is a fascinating and eye-opening subject. It looks at everyday issues that affect us and gives us an explanation as to why these issues happen. It tackles social issues that are happening daily, including contemporary examples seen on the news. Sociology allows you to find explanations for behaviours seen in society, including society-wide issues such as crime. 

Sociology also allows you to become a well-rounded person, teaching you communication skills, the necessary tools to interact with and empathise with people from different social backgrounds and the understanding that society is formed of many different cultures and groups.

In Sociology you will gain many skills including critical thinking; analytical skills; researching skills and social skills. All of these skills will aid you when making the jump from GCSE’s to A-levels.

Sociology isn’t a subject rooted in the past. It is always adapting to suit the society it is trying to study. Sociology is about looking forward to all the changes on the horizon. This will lead to a fascinating two years of study.