Sociology Intent
Sociology is a subject that gives an understanding of how to function effectively in the social world; to understand why we behave as we do in society and across different cultures and how to communicate and work with others in wider society. In Sociology, we aim to deliver a curriculum which is accessible to all students, regardless of starting points, e.g. whether students have studied GCSE Sociology or not, the former being an option at Chellaston Academy. We intend that students will develop confidence in a new subject at GCSE/A-Level and thrive on their love of learning.
A specification driven intention is that students will develop an ability to understand, apply, analyse, evaluate and discuss sociological terms, concepts, research studies and explanations/approaches of societal behaviour; students will apply knowledge and understanding of material covered to real-life behaviours and learn to critically analyse the credibility of theories and research studies examined. We will provide opportunities for an enriched understanding and appreciation of the subject by starting to integrate key issues and debates surrounding societal behaviour; this should lead to a respect for all through deeper compassion and empathy for the diverse behaviours displayed by others in society and different cultures.
Students will develop comprehension skills in listening and reading to a level where they are able to understand sociological terms and concepts. In writing, students will develop a working knowledge of how to structure answers to meet the AQA specification examination requirements, in topic areas such as: Theories and Methods, Families and Households, Education, Beliefs in Society, Crime and Deviance, and Social Stratification. Sociology can therefore lead to any occupation that involves working with or caring for others. More specifically, one can specialise in many areas. Covering differing ideologies and viewpoints can lead to working in local or central government. Understanding research processes can result in being a Social Researcher or Data Analyst. Looking into families can result in becoming a Social Worker, Midwife or Child Protection Officer. Studying education can lead to working in the teaching/lecturing profession or working for the Department for Education. Learning about beliefs/religion could lead to becoming a charity worker or an international and development worker. Looking at crime and deviance can result in being a Police Officer, Lawyer, Judge, Prison or Probation Officer.
Throughout their learning journey, students will have the opportunity to develop literacy-based knowledge and skills, acquired in English, and skills from History will be highly relevant to studying Sociology. Students will learn how to pay attention to detail, solve problems, analyse beyond face value, think ‘out of the box’. The skills learnt will enable students to enter the world beyond Chellaston Academy as a good citizen and a perceptive, adaptive and valued employee.
If you require any further information, please contact the Head of Subject via the link on our Contact Us page.
