How to Pass GCSE Sociology (AQA)
• What you need to pass (Grade 4) and how to get top marks
• Presented by: [Your Name or School]
Understanding the Basics
• 📘 What is Sociology?
• - The study of society and group behaviour
• - Investigates institutions like family, education, crime, and class
• - Uses evidence, theory, and research
• 📝 Exam Structure (AQA)
• - Paper 1: Families & Education + Research Methods (1hr 45m)
• - Paper 2: Crime & Deviance + Stratification + Research Methods (1hr 45m)
Key Topics Overview
• 🔑 Topics You Must Know:
• 1. Families
• 2. Education
• 3. Crime and Deviance
• 4. Social Stratification
• 5. Research Methods
What You Need for a Grade 4 (Pass)
• ✔ Understand basic definitions: norms, values, role, status
• ✔ Describe key concepts and functions (e.g. family, education)
• ✔ Use simple real-life examples
• ✔ Answer 1- to 4-mark questions
• ✔ Write structured but basic 12-mark answers
• 💡 Example:
• Q: Describe one function of the family.
• A: One function of the family is primary socialisation. This is when children
learn norms and values.
Aiming for Grades 7-9 (Top Grades)
• 🎯 Use sociological theories (Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism)
• 🎯 Apply key terms and sociological vocabulary
• 🎯 Write in-depth evaluative answers
• 🎯 Reference named sociologists and studies
• 🎯 Compare and contrast views
• 💡 Example:
• Bowles & Gintis on education reproducing class inequality vs meritocracy
Core Theories and Thinkers
• 📚 Families: Parsons, Wilmott & Young, Feminist critiques
• 📚 Education: Durkheim, Parsons, Bowles & Gintis, Becker
• 📚 Crime: Durkheim, Cohen, Marxist & Functionalist views
• 📚 Stratification: Marx, Weber, life chances, open/closed societies
Exam Techniques
• ✍️1- to 4-mark Questions:
• - Use command words: Identify, Describe, Explain
• - One idea per mark
• 🧠 12-mark Questions:
• - Use PEEL: Point, Evidence, Explain, Link
• - Provide two sides + conclusion
• - Use theory and named examples
Revision Strategies
• 🧩 Flashcards for key terms and theorists
• 🧠 Mind maps for each topic
• ⏱ Past paper practice under timed conditions
• 🎥 Watch Tutor2U and Esher Sociology on YouTube
• 📘 Use CGP/Hodder revision guides
Research Methods Focus
• 🔬 Primary vs secondary research
• 📊 Quantitative vs qualitative
• 🎯 Sampling techniques
• ✅ Strengths/weaknesses of methods
• 🔍 Validity, reliability, ethics
Final Exam Day Tips
• Read all questions carefully
• 📝 Plan 12-mark answers briefly before writing
• 💬 Use sociological vocabulary in every answer
• ⏰ Manage time well
• 💪 Stay calm and confident
Summary
• 🎓 To Pass (Grade 4):
• - Know key terms and concepts
• - Use simple examples
• - Attempt all questions
• 🏆 To Get Top Grades (7-9):
• - Use theory, studies, and evaluation
• - Write structured, critical answers
• - Link points to wider sociological debates