United Kingdom · National Curriculum Attainment Targets
Year 10 Sociology.
This Year 10 Sociology curriculum introduces students to the core concepts of society, social structures, and socialisation. Students will critically examine the relationship between individuals and institutions, developing their sociological imagination and analytical skills in preparation for their GCSE examinations.
01The Sociological Approach
An introduction to foundational sociological theories and the ways in which society shapes human behaviour. Students will explore the concepts of culture, socialisation, and social stratification.
Students explore foundational sociological perspectives, including Functionalism, Marxism, and Feminism. They will learn to apply these theories to contemporary British society.
An examination of how culture is transmitted through primary and secondary socialisation. Students will analyse how norms and values shape human behaviour.
Students investigate how society is stratified by class, gender, and ethnicity, and how social control is maintained. They will evaluate formal and informal mechanisms of control.
02Sociological Research Methods
A comprehensive look at how sociologists design and conduct research. Students will evaluate various data collection methods and the ethical considerations involved in sociological studies.
An introduction to the research process, focusing on the distinction between primary and secondary data, and quantitative and qualitative approaches. Students will evaluate the usefulness of different data types.
Students explore specific research methods such as questionnaires, interviews, and observations. They will assess the practical advantages and disadvantages of each method.
A critical look at the ethical considerations in sociological research, including informed consent and confidentiality. Students will also evaluate research in terms of validity, reliability, and representativeness.
03Families and Households
An exploration of the family as a central social institution. Students will analyse changing family patterns, diversity, and power dynamics within households.
Students examine the role of the family in society from Functionalist, Marxist, and Feminist perspectives. They will debate whether the nuclear family is still the ideal model.
An analysis of demographic trends in the UK, including rising divorce rates, declining marriage rates, and the increase in family diversity. Students will explore the reasons behind these changes.
Students investigate the division of domestic labour and power relationships within the family. They will also assess how the social construction of childhood has evolved.
04Education
A critical examination of the education system and its role in society. Students will investigate the causes of differential educational achievement and the internal processes of schools.
An exploration of the education system's purpose, comparing Functionalist views on meritocracy with Marxist views on the reproduction of inequality. Students will analyse the formal and hidden curriculum.
Students analyse patterns of educational achievement in relation to social class, gender, and ethnicity. They will evaluate both inside-school and outside-school factors.
A focus on interactionist perspectives, examining how teacher labelling, streaming, and pupil subcultures impact student outcomes. Students will consider the self-fulfilling prophecy.