Social Sciences

The Social Sciences Department at Bishop Justus School is comprised of three individual subjects; Psychology, Sociology and BTEC Health and Social Care. All three are offered at KS5 and both Psychology and Sociology are offered at GCSE level for Key Stage Four. Social Sciences gives students a better awareness and understanding of the world in which they find themselves and the ability to appreciate not just the workings of their own state and culture but also of those around them. The Social Sciences Department have high expectations and aims for both members of staff but also, and arguably more importantly, the students themselves.

Our priorities are:

  • To ensure that all Social Sciences students receive an outstanding education in all of the subjects which are offered
  • To support all students in order that they are able to reach their full potential
  • Encourage a culture of independent students who are experts in their subjects and take responsibility for their learning

 

Psychology

KS4 Psychology

For GCSE our exam board is AQA and our course code is 8182

The website link to our specification is: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology/gcse/psychology-8182

In year 9 we study an introduction to the 6 main approaches in Psychology which include the biological approach, the behavioural approach and the social learning theory and how these contribute to the nature versus nurture debate. Through the ‘development’ unit we examine how Piaget explains our cognitive development and the use of Dweck’s mindset theory. We then look at how the influence of others can affect our behaviour through the Social Influence unit. We complete the year by looking at psychological problems including depression and addiction.

In year 10 we study the process involved within psychological research including the various methodological techniques that can be used. We then proceed to look at language, thought and communication, including the power of non-verbal communication. The units looking at memory and perception are also studied within year 10.

In year 11 before focusing on revision and examinations skills, we complete the teaching aspect of the GCSE course by studying the brain and neuropsychology.

KS5 Psychology

For A level our exam board is AQA and our course code is 7182

The website link to our specification is: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology/as-and-a-level/psychology-7181-7182

In year 12 we study introductory topics in psychology: In this module, we look at three areas of psychology: Social influence, Memory and Attachment. Psychology in context: In this module, we look at three areas of psychology: Approaches in psychology, Psychopathology and Research Methods.

In year 13 we study the third paper ‘Issues and options in psychology’. In this paper you will be assessed on issues and debates in psychology and optional content. Currently we teach Forensic Psychology, Gender Development and Schizophrenia as the options at Bishop Justus.

Sociology

Studying Sociology provides our students with the tools to question and embrace diversity in society and gives students a better understanding of the complexities of mankind. The study of sociological perspectives on key societal issues develops each student’s ability to think broadly and critically. Students are encouraged to question the perspectives they study and to use the perspectives of others to support their critique. Students will have a deeper knowledge and understanding of key social structures, processes and issues through the studies of families, education, crime and deviance and social stratification.

By studying Sociology, students will develop transferable skills for example the ability to investigate facts and make deductions, to develop opinions and new ideas on social issues and to analyse and better understand society. Students will develop their communication skills whilst debating and constructing analytical arguments, making substantiated judgements and drawing reasoned conclusions.

Sociology provides an awareness of the nature of society and the conflicts within like no other subject. It creates rounded, thoughtful individuals who are not afraid to question with care. In an ever evolving society which presents change and challenges, Sociology has never been a more important subject to study. The knowledge students obtain when studying Sociology prepares them well for their own place in society and develops their empathy for others, encouraging them to be thoughtful and to embrace diversity of experience and perspective.

KS4 Sociology

For GCSE our exam board is AQA and our course code is 8192

The website link to our specification is: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/sociology/gcse

In year 9 we study an introduction to key sociological principles which include functionalism, Marxism and feminism. Using this foundation we then proceed to study the sociology of the families and the sociology of education.

In year 10 we study sociological research methods with a particular focus on examining how sociological research is conducted and the strengths and limitations of the various forms of methodology. In year 10 we also study the social construction of crime and deviance.

In year 11 before focusing on revision and examinations skills, we complete the teaching aspect of the GCSE course by studying social stratification which focuses upon key issues such as power and authority, poverty and life chances.

KS5 Sociology

For A level our exam board is AQA and our course code is 7192

The website link to our specification is: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/sociology/as-and-a-level/sociology-7191-7192

In year 12 we study paper 1 education with theory and methods and families from paper 2. Within the former we examine the role and functions of the education system, differential education achievement of social groups by social class, gender and ethnicity. We then move on to examine the significance of educational policies, including policies of selection, marketization and privatisation. Within the families unit we examine the relationship of the family to social structure and social change, whilst looking at the changing patterns of marriage, cohabitation, separation, divorce and childbearing. Links to changing demographic trends in the United Kingdom since 1900 are analysed, particularly those surrounding birth rates, death rates, family size, life expectancy, migration and globalisation.

In year 13 we study the crime and deviance unit where students are expected to be familiar with sociological explanations of crime, deviance, social order and social control. We then move on to examine the social distribution of crime and deviance by ethnicity, gender and social class, globalisation and crime in contemporary society, such as the media and crime, green crime, human rights and state crimes.

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