Sociology
Unlocking the Mysteries of Society
Head of Department: Miss S Campbell
The Sociology curriculum at Gumley House aims to provide students with the skillset needed to be both well informed and productive citizens by querying the difficult questions about our social world in the 21st century, as well as developing the tools with which to view, navigate and critically evaluate the ever changing globalised world. We do this through studying society from a range of perspectives where students are invited to think critically about key social issues, social structures, processes and institutions within the UK that shape their lives as well as the wider global community. At Gumley House, we aim to ensure that students will leave as critical thinkers with the capability to effectively problem solve - as well as being effective oral and written communicators.
Our students come from a diverse range of backgrounds and the curriculum is therefore designed to both celebrate the benefits of belonging to such a culturally rich community and to empower them to challenge the inequalities that act as a barrier to social mobility.
CURRICULUM DOCUMENTS (Sociology)
The curriculum is concentrated on delivering both knowledge and skills through which we aim to equip students with the means to tackle the demands of the GCSE and A level examinations and achieve their potential. To ensure we maximise skill development and the application of knowledge within the classroom, the department requires students to complete flipped learning and pre-reading tasks prior to the lessons. This prepares our students to become independent lifelong learners who place a high value on academic attributes which will facilitate them in higher education.
The sequence of lessons throughout the two year GCSE course will also enable students to make synoptic links between interleaving topics, apply sociological theories and research to contemporary society, and foster analytical and evaluative skills as well as build on student’s prior knowledge of humanities and social science. Lessons promote active and engaging learning as well as being suitably differentiated to ensure all students can access the learning and reach their full potential. In addition to academic excellence we aim for our students to complete their sociological studies with a sense of enthusiasm, pride, dignity and companionship. At Gumley House we actively encourage maturity, consideration for others, and self-respect among the students; in their attitude towards their learning whilst enabling them to be advocates for their community.
Our Sociology curriculum will enable students to construct rational arguments with the ability to understand society from a range of varying theoretical perspectives. Students will develop the ability to be critical thinkers with the capability of enquiring their social world. As well as move from reflective thinking to reflective living and become responsible global citizens. Moreover, students will also develop an appreciation and understanding of many different walks of life and cultures as well as developing a love of learning.
Sociology in Year 9
Sociology Learning Journey for KS4
This is very much an introduction to the world of Sociology although students tend to have some existing knowledge through their studies in Religious Education. We begin to explore what sociology is and what the basics are of socialisation. We then begin to analyse the influences of culture and debate developments classified as 'nature' or 'nurture'.
Students get the chance to design their ideal society, including the laws and elements of social control (exploring influences such as feminism, Marxism and Functionalism).
Students have a 9 week experience of Sociology which not only gives them them an understanding of social influences - but also introduces them to the GCSE content should they wish to continue the subject at qualification level.
GCSE Sociology (Year 10 and 11)
EXAM BOARD: AQA leading to a GCSE in Sociology (click here for examination specification)
Examinations: There is no coursework. Two exams are taken in the summer term of Year 11.
Sociology Learning Journey for KS4
Why study this course?
Sociology is the exciting study of the society in which we live and the institutions, such as schools and families, that create it. We examine the reasons and effects of family diversity, the purpose of the British education system and the sociological issues surrounding crime and deviance. Throughout, we explore class, gender and ethnic differences and apply sociological theories, such as feminism, to explain them. Students will experience first-hand the research methods used by sociologists and apply original case studies to real life situations.
Our GCSE course then lays the foundations of sociological knowledge and critical thinking which are further developed at A Level. The sociological skills of inquiry, independent thinking and independent research are highly valued by higher education and employers. It is recommended that pupils undertaking this course take an active interest in society outside school by watching and discussing documentary programmes, reading newspapers and using revision guides to support study at home.
What will I learn?
Unit 1: Families and Households & Education
Unit 2: Crime and deviance & Education Power and Inequality
Pupils are well prepared to take the examinations at the end of the course. Throughout year 9, 10 and 11 we will support and teach you how to answer questions under timed conditions, provide extra support outside of the lessons and prepare you for post-16 education. The practical element concentrates on developing your skill levels in three practical areas of study. Students will cover a wide variety of sports and be assessed on 3 (one team, one individual and one other). The final assessment of your practical skills will provide 40% of your final mark. This includes a personal exercise programme, created and completed by the students.
Future Pathways
Sociology at GCSE is useful for a range of careers including Journalism, Health Care, Law, Teaching, Social work, Politics, Social research and careers requiring good communication skills. Sociology is a discipline that can be studied at degree level and beyond for those who wish to become professional sociologists and make a contribution to the body of social research.
A Level Sociology
Sociology Learning Journey for KS5
Visit our dedicated A Level Sociology page as part of our A Level Course guide.
Where can Sociology take me?
A Level Sociology gives you a strong foundation for further study of a range of academic subjects at degree level. It is a good foundation subject as the knowledge you learn can be applied to all aspects of society, and it provides a variety of academic skills especially thinking critically about the world. Sociology can lead to a job in a variety of careers such as teaching, social work and social policymaking, law, journalism and the civil service.
Students who have completed this A Level have gone on to study a diverse range of courses at respected UK universities. These include: Criminology, Sociology, Anthropology, Law and Psychology.