Sociology

Intent:

In the Sociology department at Rodillian Academy we engage students in a wide range of Sociological theories and perspectives (within the GCSE and A-Level Specifications), allowing them to understand the different narratives offered and the historical context within which they were developed. Students are encouraged to develop their own opinions through evaluating the strengths and the limitations of these theories and perspectives, developing critical thinking skills through debates in class and formally written within essays. This allows students to understand and apply Sociological theories and perspectives to a wide range of historical and current events.

Cultural Capital is embedded throughout the sociology curriculum. Our students are introduced to a wide variety of viewpoints from some of the most influential Sociologists throughout history. We study the impact that their work has had on the world we live in and students are encouraged to make links between their studies and real life examples. They are expected to analyse the relative contributions of competing theories in order to discuss their impact on our understanding of human behaviour and society as a whole

British values are taught through the teaching of norms, values and culture. As well as the historical study of British society, allowing students to understand the diverse nature of British society. 

All students study the AQA GCSE course and the AQA A-Level course. This is a linear course which means that all the examinations are taken at the end of the one year GCSE. The students will take two exams, both 1 hour 45 minutes in length and both worth 50% of the GCSE.

Gatsby Benchmarks for Careers education:

Within the Sociology curriculum, we aim to link the curriculum learning to careers (GB4) and these are discussed during the course.