Specification: Pearson-GCSE-Sociology
The EDEXCEL GCSE Sociology specification covers 1 topic with 0 learning objectives (Pearson-GCSE-Sociology). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
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Edexcel GCSE Sociology offers students a fascinating introduction to the study of society, exploring how human behaviour is shaped by social structures, processes and issues. The course encourages critical thinking and a questioning approach to the world around us, examining key institutions such as families, education and the criminal justice system. Students will learn to apply sociological theories and concepts to understand patterns of inequality, power and social change in contemporary UK society.
A core element of the specification is the sociological approach, including classic and contemporary perspectives like functionalism, Marxism and feminism. You will also develop a firm grasp of research methods, learning how sociologists design studies, collect data and evaluate evidence. This equips you with analytical skills that are valuable for further study and everyday life, from interpreting statistics to assessing the validity of media claims.
The course is structured around two examination papers, both taken at the end of the course. Paper 1 covers the fundamentals of the subject: the sociological approach and research methods, alongside the study of families and education. Paper 2 focuses on crime and deviance, and social stratification, examining issues such as poverty, social class and the distribution of power. Throughout, you will engage with real-world examples and contemporary debates, making sociology a highly relevant and engaging subject.
Edexcel GCSE Sociology is assessed entirely through two written examination papers, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes and worth 100 marks. Paper 1 (The Sociological Approach and Research Methods) accounts for 50% of the total qualification, while Paper 2 (The Sociology of Crime and Deviance and Social Stratification) makes up the remaining 50%. Both papers include a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer and extended-response questions, requiring students to demonstrate knowledge, application and evaluation of sociological theories and evidence. There is no coursework or non-exam assessment component.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of sociological theories, concepts, evidence and methods
Apply knowledge and understanding of sociological theories, concepts, evidence and methods
Analyse and evaluate sociological theories, concepts, evidence and methods in order to construct arguments, make judgements and draw conclusions
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
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