Go to Post

Sociology

What do we cover in this subject?

 

Sociology is all about understanding how society works and how it affects us every day. At Hutton Sixth Form, A Level Sociology (AQA exam board) looks at important parts of society like families, schools, religion, and the justice system. You’ll explore how these institutions influence people and shape our world.

Some big questions we look at include:

  • Why do some students do better in school than others?

  • What causes crime, and how do we deal with it?

  • How are families changing in modern society?

  • What do people around the world believe in, and how does it affect their behaviour?

You’ll learn how sociologists use theories and research methods to study people and society. This subject will help you develop your thinking, reading, debating and writing skills. You’ll also need to analyse statistics and spot patterns, so a logical, curious mind is a big advantage.

How is this subject taught?

At Hutton, Sociology is taught in small, friendly classes by experienced teachers who also work as AQA examiners. Lessons are interactive and involve group discussions, debates, and working through real-life case studies. You'll be taught by two teachers and have 9 lessons each fortnight. 

Year 1 Topics:

  • Education

  • Research Methods

  • Families and Households

  • Methods in Context

You’ll have an internal assessment at the end of Year 12 to see how you're doing.

Year 2 Topics:

  • Crime and Deviance

  • Beliefs in Society

  • Theory and Methods

At the end of Year 13, you’ll sit three A Level exams which cover both Year 1 and Year 2 topics.

 

What are the enrichment opportunities in this subject?

Sociology isn't just about the classroom! We offer loads of great opportunities to bring your learning to life:

  • Trips to places of worship during the Beliefs in Society topic

  • Guest lectures on topics like education and criminal justice

  • Annual revision conferences to help you prepare for your final exams

These experiences help you apply what you learn to the real world — and make the subject even more interesting.

 

Where does this subject lead to after sixth form?

A Level Sociology opens the door to lots of university courses and careers. You could go on to study Sociology, Criminology, Psychology, Law, Politics, or Social Work at university.

Sociology is a great subject to combine with others if you’re interested in careers such as:

  • Teaching

  • Counselling or mental health support

  • Police or probation services

  • Family or youth work

  • Social work and social research

Employers and universities like Sociology because it shows you can think critically, understand people, and work with both words and data.