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Oxford Online School

Key Stage 5

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Sociology

Explore society, institutions, and social change through theory, evidence, and structured sociological debate.

Overview

A Level Sociology examines how society is organised, how power operates, and how social structures shape individual lives and outcomes. Students engage with competing theoretical perspectives, evaluate evidence critically, and apply sociological thinking to real-world issues from inequality and crime to media and globalisation.

What Students Study

Foundations of Sociology

Students examine key sociological theories and perspectives used to analyse social behaviour and institutions.

  • Functionalist, Marxist, and feminist perspectives
  • Research methods and evidence evaluation
  • Core sociological concepts and terminology

Families, Education and Social Structures

Learners explore how major institutions shape life chances, identity, and social outcomes.

  • Family diversity and social policy
  • Education, inequality, and achievement
  • Class, gender, and ethnicity

Crime, Media and Contemporary Issues

Students apply sociological thinking to modern social issues and evaluate competing explanations.

  • Crime, deviance, and social control
  • Media influence and representation
  • Globalisation and social change

Assessment & Progress

Assessment is aligned with A Level sociology through essay writing, source analysis, and exam preparation.

  • Short and extended sociological essays
  • Evidence and method-based response tasks
  • Mock examinations and feedback cycles

Course Details

Assessment

  • Assessment follows the Oxford Online School Curriculum framework.
  • Students are assessed through written assignments, project work and end-of-year examinations.
  • Detailed marking criteria and assessment schedules are provided at the start of the course.
  • Teachers provide written feedback and grade predictions throughout the year.

Course Duration

The International A Level course runs over two academic years (Years 12 and 13). Students have continuous access to live online lessons, one-to-one subject support, and learning resources throughout the programme.

Course Outcome

Students who successfully complete the required assessments are awarded an internationally recognised A Level qualification that enables progression to university and higher education. Full qualification details are confirmed at the point of enrolment.

Entry Requirements

  • Five or more International GCSE grades at C/4 or above (or equivalent)
  • Grade B/6 or above at IGCSE level in the chosen A Level subject or a closely related subject
  • A pass in an internal subject assessment completed prior to enrolment
  • Students whose English is not their first language must provide a language certificate showing a minimum B2 level in all components, or sit an internal English assessment
  • Two years of previous school reports are required
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about Sociology? Here are some of the key things families often want to know.

Next steps

Ready for university?

Our Sixth Form A Level programme gives students the grades, skills, and personal statement support to secure their university place.