AQA A level Sociology Tips

At first, sociology may seem daunting due to the sheer amount of knowledge you need to remember. So, let's break down A-level sociology bit by bit. Let's first dive into some tips and tricks to level you up.

• Divide by Theoretical Perspectives: Imagine your topics (family, education) as a massive pizza. Each perspective is a different slice: Functionalism, Marxism, feminism, and postmodernism. Tackle each theory as they come.
• Master key sociologists: Get comfortable with the literature of Durkheim, Marx, and Foucault. These folks have laid the foundation for sociology. Start with their key arguments and concepts.  

• Essay Plans: Create essay plans for different topics. You should be set if you can create one on each perspective and topics
• Practice Papers: Practice papers are always your best friend! They teach you content and time management skills
• Current Affairs: Look at current events and try to include them in your essay. Incorporating them makes you stand out from the crowd and get extra marks.

3. Essay Writing Strategies

• Introduction: The introduction defines key terms and outlines your arguments. Always set the stage right!
• Structured Paragraphs: Make sure to follow a set structure. The examiner will penalise you if you go too off track. Use Point, Explanation, Example, Analysis and Link if in doubts

• Avoid Shopping Lists: This is a big one. Students often just list theories without explaining them. This style of writing caps their marks. Be sure to explain your points thoroughly!
• Balanced Arguments: Do not just use one perspective. Compare and Contrast different perspectives to make it well-rounded.
• Use of AO1 and AO2: AO1 is where you can flex your sociology knowledge. Use different theorists to blow the examiner away. AO2 is Application and evaluation. So, the use of examples and applications.

5. In-Depth Understanding

• Textbook Resources: I recommend books like Rob Webb's for AQA sociology. This book is filled with detailed explanations.
• Study Groups: Sociology is an opinion-based subject. Discussing views with your peers is essential as they may hold different opinions. Talking through your points will help you break down key strengths and weaknesses in your arguments.

Conclusion

You should be on your way to sociology mastery using these five helpful tips. I hope this short guide has made your course more manageable. If you need any more help, please get in touch. Our team of tutors includes Cambridge and Oxford sociology graduates. Please get the help you deserve by searching our marketplace or booking a short call.

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