@norfolkfran.bsky.social @hecticteacher.bsky.social @browneken.bsky.social @thesociologyguy.bsky.social Important Guardian article on education policy and educational inequality. More to follow next week www.theguardian.com/education/20...
@norfolkfran.bsky.social @hecticteacher.bsky.social @thesociologyguy.bsky.social @browneken.bsky.social
Revised teaching notes on social class and educational achievement: the schools. earlhamsociologypages.uk/social-class...
So stop 2 on the Northern leg on the @tutor2u Sociology gradebooster tour complete. Met some amazing students and teachers in both Newcastle and Leeds and wish them well for their exams in May/June. Last session of Northern Leg on Friday in Manchester, before heading off to midlands and Bristol.
Thanks Russell. Been having a little break at minute, but will have a look over them when I'm back
There are clear theoretical differences between cults and sects in terms of structure, beliefs, and relationships to society. However, sociological definitions are fluid – groups can evolve over time, and labels can be contested. Typologies like those of Wallis and Stark & Bainbridge help illustrate differences, but real-world complexity often resists neat classification.
Stark and Bainbridge – Audience, Client, and Cult Movements 📚 Stark and Bainbridge (1985) – developed a typology of cults: Audience cults – least organised, often media-based (e.g. astrology). Client cults – offer services (e.g. self-help, therapy). Cult movements – more organised, demand higher commitment (e.g. Scientology).
Niebuhr (1929) – sects tend to be short-lived; they either: Denominationalise (become more mainstream), Die out, or Be replaced by a new sect.
What is the difference between a sect and a cult? According to sociologists, these two NRMs are marked by very different origins and practices. #sociology #alevelsociology #socibis 3/3
Roy Wallis (1984) – developed a typology based on the group’s relationship to the outside world and their claims to truth.
World-rejecting NRMs = like sects (e.g. Jehovah’s Witnesses, Moonies). World-accommodating NRMs = often offshoots of mainstream religion. World-affirming NRMs = like cults (e.g. Scientology, Transcendental Meditation).
Troeltsch (1912) – distinguished between churches, sects, and later theorists added cults and denominations. ✅ Evaluation: These definitions are ideal types – in reality, many groups don’t fit neatly into one category. The line between cults and sects can be blurred or change over time.
What is the difference between a sect and a cult? According to sociologists, these two NRMs are marked by very different origins and practices. #sociology #alevelsociology #socibis 2/3
What is the difference between cults and sects?
Basic Definitions and Key Differences Sects: Often breakaway groups from existing religions due to a dispute over doctrine or perceived corruption. Tend to be exclusive, demand high commitment, and claim a monopoly on truth. Often led by a charismatic leader and focus on spiritual purity or salvation.
ults: Tend to be new religious movements, not necessarily linked to traditional faiths. More individualistic, tolerant, and inclusive – members are often free to come and go. Often offer worldly benefits like self-help, success, or healing.
What is the difference between a sect and a cult? According to sociologists, these two NRMs are marked by very different origins and practices. #sociology #alevelsociology #socibis 1/3
On the other hand, older people often have more spending power – they become a key market for goods and services (sometimes called the 'grey pound').
On the other hand, older people often have more spending power – they become a key market for goods and services (sometimes called the 'grey pound').
Cultural and Social Attitudes Ageism can become more common – older people may be seen as a burden, or face stereotypes (e.g. “they don’t understand technology”).
More contemporary arguments suggest there is a growth in ‘active ageing’ as individuals have more leisure time and ability to pursue hobbies after retiring.
Impacts of the ageing population - the UK median age is 40.7 with less children being born and people living longer, but what are the impacts: #sociology #aqaalevelsociology #socfam 3/3
More Care Responsibilities Feminist sociologists highlight the burden on women – often it’s daughters or daughters-in-law who care for elderly relatives.
Sandwich generation: People (especially women) looking after both elderly parents and dependent children at the same time. Leads to emotional strain, time poverty, and sometimes financial hardship.
Pressure on Public Services Older people use the NHS more for age-related conditions (e.g. dementia, mobility issues).
Hirsch (2005) argues we’ll need to redistribute income and resources – e.g. more spending on pensions and healthcare, possibly paid for by raising taxes or extending working age.
Impacts of the ageing population - the UK median age is 40.7 with less children being born and people living longer, but what are the impacts: #sociology #aqaalevelsociology #socfam 2/3
An ageing population means the average age of the population is rising, and there is a growing proportion of older people (usually 65+) compared to younger people. This is due to: Increased life expectancy (people living longer) Declining birth rates (fewer young people being born)
An ageing population means the average age of the population is rising, and there is a growing proportion of older people (usually 65+) compared to younger people. This is due to: Increased life expectancy (people living longer) Declining birth rates (fewer young people being born)
Key Impacts on Society: 👨👩👧👦 1. Family Structures Increased beanpole families (Brannen, 2003): Families become “long and thin” – more generations alive at once, but with fewer people in each generation.
Key Impacts on Society: 👨👩👧👦 1. Family Structures More intergenerational ties: Grandparents may play a bigger role in childcare (e.g. helping working parents), but also may need care themselves.
Impacts of the ageing population - the UK median age is 40.7 with less children being born and people living longer, but what are the impacts: #sociology #aqaalevelsociology #socfam 1/3
I did not know. Thanks Russell.
two paper silhouettes facing each other with tangled laces connecting brains. Caption: Beck & Beck-Gernsheim (1995) – ‘The Normal Chaos of Love’. This creates tensions – for example, between work and family life, or personal fulfilment and commitment. The result: more diverse family forms, like lone-parent families, reconstituted families, cohabitation, and LATs (Living Apart Together).
Checklist. Caption: Key Features of the Individualisation Thesis: Greater choice in personal relationships. Traditional structures (e.g. marriage, gender roles) have lost their power. Family life is less stable, but potentially more equal and fulfilling. People are expected to construct their own lives and take personal responsibility for their choices. Rise in family diversity (e.g. same-sex families, childfree couples, LATs).
dictionary page. Caption: Criticisms:Feminists argue it ignores structural inequalities (e.g. class, gender). Not everyone has the same freedom to choose. Personal Life Perspective (e.g. Carol Smart) says choices are still embedded in social networks, traditions, and responsibilities. It’s not all down to individual decisions. It may overstate individual freedom. Many still face pressures from culture, religion, or financial constraints.
The individualisation thesis is important for understanding how and why family structures have become more diverse in late modern society. While it highlights new freedoms and choices, it also reveals the uncertainties and risks involved in modern relationships. #sociology #aqaalevelsociology 3/3
Heart drawn in ink pen on page. Caption: Giddens (1992) – Confluent Love. Love is now more about intimacy and emotional fulfilment than duty or economic necessity. Confluent love replaces traditional romantic love - it’s active, conditional and temporary.
the word risk in middle of a mindmap: Caption: Beck (1992) – ‘Risk Society’ and Negotiated Families - Beck argues we now live in a ‘risk society’ - a society where decisions are made by calculating risks and consequences, rather than following tradition. Families have become more negotiated - roles and responsibilities are decided between individuals, not assumed.
post it notes scattered across a pinboard. Caption: Beck & Beck-Gernsheim (1995) – ‘The Normal Chaos of Love’. They describe modern relationships as chaotic because people are trying to balance freedom with a desire for love and security. People want intimacy, but also want to maintain independence and self-identity.
The individualisation thesis is important for understanding how and why family structures have become more diverse in late modern society. While it highlights new freedoms and choices, it also reveals the uncertainties and risks involved in modern relationships. #sociology #aqaalevelsociology 2/3
Lone figure in spotlight: Caption: What is the individualisation thesis?
Series of dice with frowns drawn on. One red dice with smiles. Captions: The individualisation thesis argues that in modern society (especially late modernity), traditional roles, norms and expectations (e.g. class, gender, religion, family) have less influence over people’s lives. Individuals are now more free to make personal choices about relationships, identity, and lifestyle - but this also brings new challenges and insecurities.
Heart drawn on clean page of a book. Caption: Giddens (1992) – ‘Late Modernity’ and the ‘Pure Relationship’. Giddens argues that relationships are increasingly based on individual choice rather than obligation or tradition. The ‘pure relationship’ is one that exists solely to meet each partner’s emotional needs. If it stops doing so, the relationship ends.
The individualisation thesis is important for understanding how and why family structures have become more diverse in late modern society. While it highlights new freedoms and choices, it also reveals the uncertainties and risks involved in modern relationships. #sociology #aqaalevelsociology 1/3
Caption: mart suggests we look beyond the traditional family and focus on “personal life”, which can include: Friends who feel “like family” Pets as family members Fictive kin (e.g. calling a close friend “auntie”) Non-biological parental roles (e.g. step-parents or donor-conceived families)
{Person doing Yoga on beach with caption: Strengths of PLP Inclusive – recognises diverse family forms and emotional bonds. Realistic – reflects how people experience family in real life. Challenges stereotypes – doesn't assume one “correct” family type.
Dictionary page with Caption: Criticisms of PLP Too individualistic – can seem vague or difficult to generalise. Underplays inequality – may ignore how class, gender and ethnicity limit choices. Lacks structure – not as useful for explaining broader patterns or policies.
What is the Personal Life Perspective? What do students need to know about PLP for sitting AQA A Level Sociology Families and Households? Check out this brief overview of main points of PLP #aqaalevelsociology #alevelsociology #sociologystudent #socfam 3/3
Finger with face drawn on, surrounded by colourful speech bubbles. Caption: The Connectedness Thesis. This opposes ideas of individualism and free choice proposed by sociologists such as Giddens and Beck
Paper doll cut outs in a circle with Captions: Smart (2007) Smart argues against the idea that individuals are completely free to choose their family ties. Instead, she proposes the Connectedness Thesis
Outdoor family meal with caption: Smart argues: We’re always connected to others, even after a relationship ends, emotional ties remain. Decisions are shaped by history and embedded relationships e.g., past marriages, children, or cultural expectations.
What is the Personal Life Perspective? What do students need to know about PLP for sitting AQA A Level Sociology Families and Households? Check out this brief overview of main points of PLP #aqaalevelsociology #alevelsociology #sociologystudent #socfam 2/3
Wooden figures with capition what is the personal life perspective?
Family in a field with caption PLP developed as a response to Functionalist, Marxist and even some Feminist views that see the family as a fixed structure with clear roles.
Family gathering with caption: Instead, PLP argues that: Family is not one-size-fits-all – it’s diverse and flexible. What counts as “family” is based on meaning, not just biology or law. Relationships are shaped by individual choice, but also by our social ties and past experiences.
What is the Personal Life Perspective? What do students need to know about PLP for sitting AQA A Level Sociology Families and Households? Check out this brief overview of main points of PLP #aqaalevelsociology #alevelsociology #sociologystudent #socfam 1/3
Family Change Over Time Track how family structures have shifted—from large extended families to nuclear families, to today’s more fluid and diverse arrangements.
Demography Look at population trends like birth rates, death rates, life expectancy, and migration—and how these affect family life in the UK today.
Family Policy Examine how government laws and policies (like maternity leave, benefits, and marriage laws) shape family choices and structure—who benefits, and who doesn't?
What do you need to cover for #socfam Option Topic of Families and households for AQA. Simple overview of main themes. 📌 Save & share with your study group!
#AQASociology #FamiliesAndHouseholds #ALevelSociology #StudySociology 3/3
Family Patterns & Diversity Learn how family types are changing—more cohabitation, later marriages, higher divorce rates, and diverse family forms like single-parent and same-sex families.
Gender Roles & Domestic Labour Who does the cooking, cleaning, and childcare? Study how roles within the home have changed (or stayed the same), and whether relationships are becoming more equal.
Childhood Is childhood a fixed stage of life, or has it changed over time and place? Think about whether children today are more protected or more controlled.
What do you need to cover for #socfam Option Topic of Families and households for AQA. Simple overview of main themes. 📌 Save & share with your study group!
#AQASociology #FamiliesAndHouseholds #ALevelSociology #StudySociology 2/3
Theories of the Family Explore how sociologists view the role of the family—Functionalists see it as keeping society stable, Marxists say it benefits capitalism, and Feminists argue it maintains patriarchy.
Family Patterns & Diversity Learn how family types are changing—more cohabitation, later marriages, higher divorce rates, and diverse family forms like single-parent and same-sex families.
Theories of the Family Explore how sociologists view the role of the family—Functionalists see it as keeping society stable, Marxists say it benefits capitalism, and Feminists argue it maintains patriarchy.
What do you need to cover for #socfam Option Topic of Families and households for AQA. Simple overview of main themes. 📌 Save & share with your study group!
#AQASociology #FamiliesAndHouseholds #ALevelSociology #StudySociology 1/3
Good luck to all the A level sociologists taking their first paper today!
Knock it out of the park!
www.tes.com/magazine/tea...
I've seen far too much of this not to speak out. Especially those that sell predictions.
Quote by Michael Apple: What is taught in schools is not neutral; it reflects power and privilege.
Michael Apple argues that education is not neutral; it reflects and reinforces dominant ideologies, privileging powerful groups through curriculum, testing, and control over knowledge. #sociology #soced Not usually covered on specification...
Quote by Henry Giroux: "We must view young people not as empty minds to be filled, but as seeds to be nurtured into critical thinkers."
Henry Giroux sees education as a tool for empowerment. He champions critical pedagogy, urging schools to promote democratic values, critical thinking, and resistance to oppression. Not covered on AQA A level Sociology specification in depth #sociology #soced
Classroom with caption overlaid in yellow. Caption reads: Schooling is a process of cultural reproduction that favours dominant ideologies. Samuel Bowles & Herbert Gintis - Schooling in Capitalist America
Bowles and Gintis argue that education reinforces class inequality by preparing students for capitalist work through the hidden curriculum and social reproduction. #sociology #sociologyalevel #soced
Quote on page from Paulo Friere: Education is a mirror of society and a site for struggle
Paulo Freire (1921–1997) was a Brazilian educator & critical theorist who believed education should be a tool for liberation -not oppression.
His book Pedagogy of the Oppressed argued that students aren't "empty vessels" to be filled, but active participants in their own learning. #sociology
Education for AQA A level Sociology. Mix of all the content on the specification for the exams next week.
Screenshot of tutor2u education topic mix livestream callout - capition reads tuesday 13/5 at 5pm.
Screenshot of tutor2u paper 1 warm-up livestream callout - capition reads Sunday 18/5 at 5pm.
Not one, but two Livestreams this week as we head towards the first #aqaalevelsociology exam of 2025. Join Duncan and I on Tuesday at 5pm for education topic mix and then the whole team on Sunday @ 5pm for our pre-exam Q and A session. Over on tutor2u.net/live and tutor2u you tube channel.
Description of good MiC Answer
Description of bad MIC answer
It's that time of year. Just over a week to AQA A level Sociology Paper 1 and here is an example of how a good MIC point differs from a not so good one. Consistently applying the WHO, The WHAT and the HOW across your points can move student up mark bands. #sociology #alevelsociology.
It is in the way he's questioning the established order. But that's about as much as I can unpick at the moment without going down a deep rabbit hole.
