Sociology

Synopsis

Fully revised and updated, AQA GCSE (9-1) Sociology will guide your students, topic-by-topic, through the 2017 specification, with features specially designed to be accessible to all students so they can:

- ensure they have understood each topic and grasped key points with Content Summaries and Check your understanding questions
- consolidate their knowledge with activities and extension opportunities to take them beyond the text
- define and use key terms in the specification with confidence
- use Research in Action sections to understand the work of key sociologists
- prepare for assessments with Practice Questions based on the 2017 specification, together with answer guidance and commentary

AQA GCSE (9-1) Sociology has been reviewed by Sociology academics to ensure all content is accurate, sensitive, contextualised and evidence-based.

Summary

Chapter 1: Foundations

* Sociology's Perspective: Studies human societies and social phenomena, focusing on social structures, institutions, and interactions.
* Real Example: The social institution of marriage creates social expectations and norms for relationships between spouses.

Chapter 2: Culture

* Definition of Culture: Shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices that shape human behavior and perspectives.
* Real Example: Language is a cultural element that influences communication and understanding.

Chapter 3: Socialization

* Process of Socialization: Learning the values, norms, and behaviors of society through interactions with others.
* Real Example: Parents, teachers, and peers play key roles in socializing children into society.

Chapter 4: Social Stratification

* Social Hierarchy: Division of society into different socioeconomic levels based on factors such as income, education, and power.
* Real Example: In many societies, there is a divide between the wealthy upper class and the working class.

Chapter 5: Social Institutions

* Social Institutions: Organized structures that fulfill essential social needs, such as the family, education, and government.
* Real Example: The healthcare system provides medical care and promotes public health.

Chapter 6: Social Groups

* Social Groups: Collections of individuals who interact and share common interests, goals, or affiliations.
* Real Example: A sports team is a primary group where members develop close bonds and rely on each other.

Chapter 7: Deviance

* Social Norms: Expectations for appropriate behavior within society.
* Deviance: Behavior that violates social norms and can be labeled as abnormal or unacceptable.
* Real Example: Drug use and homelessness are examples of deviant behaviors.

Chapter 8: Social Change

* Social Change: Alterations in the structure or organization of society over time.
* Real Example: Technological advancements can lead to changes in the workplace and communication.

Chapter 9: Global Sociology

* Global Connectedness: The interconnectedness of societies around the world through communication, trade, and travel.
* Real Example: Migration and globalization have created multicultural communities and challenges.

Chapter 10: Applied Sociology

* Use of Sociology: Applying sociological principles and research to solve social problems and improve society.
* Real Example: Social workers use sociological knowledge to address issues like poverty, homelessness, and inequality.