Exam Skills Flashcards
Understanding the Exam Format
What are the 3 AQA Sociology exam papers?
• Paper 1: Education with Methods in Context (2 hours, 80 marks)
• Paper 2: Topics in Sociology (e.g., Families & Households, Beliefs) (2 hours, 80 marks)
• Paper 3: Crime & Deviance with Theory & Methods (2 hours, 80 marks)
Understanding the Exam Format
What types of questions appear in AQA Sociology exams?
• Short-answer questions (e.g., 4- and 6-mark questions).
• 10-mark ‘Outline’ questions (applying two points).
• 20- and 30-mark essays (evaluative and theory-based).
Answering Short-Answer Questions
How should you answer a 4-mark question?
• Identify two distinct points.
• No explanation needed – just state them clearly.
Answering Short-Answer Questions
How should you answer a 6-mark question?
• Give two developed points with an example or explanation.
• Use concise sociological language.
10-Mark Questions
10-Marker (No Item)
What is the structure for a 10-mark question without an item?
- Identify the first point → Explain → Use an example.
- Identify the second point → Explain → Use an example.
(Each paragraph should be about 5-6 sentences.)
10-Mark Questions
10-Marker (With an Item)
How do you structure a 10-mark question with an item?
• Link both points explicitly to the item.
• Use direct quotes from the item in your explanation.
• Apply sociological evidence/examples.
20- and 30-Mark Essay Questions
What is the difference between 20- and 30-mark questions?
• 20-mark questions (Methods in Context) require linking research methods to a specific educational issue.
• 30-mark questions (Evaluation-based) require a balanced argument with a conclusion.
20- and 30-Mark Essay Questions
How should you structure a 30-mark essay?
- Introduction
• Define key terms.
• Outline main arguments.
• State your stance (optional).- Main body
• Paragraph 1: First argument (for the question) + Example + Study.
• Paragraph 2: Second argument (for the question) + Example + Study.
• Paragraph 3: Counter-argument (against the question) + Example + Study.
• Paragraph 4: Alternative perspective (e.g., Marxists vs. Functionalists).
• Paragraph 5: Another counter-argument if relevant. - Conclusion
• Summarize key points.
• Give a clear judgement.
• Explain why one perspective is stronger.
- Main body
Evaluation Skills
What are key ways to evaluate in essays?
• P – Point (State your argument).
• E – Explain (Expand on your point).
• E – Example (Use sociological studies/evidence).
• L – Link back to the question.
Evaluation Skills
What is the PEEL structure?
• P – Point (State your argument).
• E – Explain (Expand on your point).
• E – Example (Use sociological studies/evidence).
• L – Link back to the question.
Time Management in the Exam
How much time should you spend on each question?
• 4-mark → 5 minutes.
• 6-mark → 8 minutes.
• 10-mark → 12-15 minutes.
• 20-mark → 25 minutes.
• 30-mark → 35-40 minutes.
Time Management in the Exam
How can you improve time management?
• Practice under timed conditions.
• Plan essays quickly before writing.
• Prioritize high-mark questions.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
What are common mistakes in AQA Sociology exams?
• Not linking answers to the question.
• Lack of evaluation – Just describing, not assessing.
• Over-reliance on personal opinions – Always use sociology.
• Not using studies/evidence.
• Running out of time – Leaving high-mark questions incomplete.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
How can you improve exam technique?
• Use past papers & mark schemes to understand what examiners expect.
• Practice writing essays within time limits.
• Memorize key sociologists and studies.
• Use the PEEL structure consistently.
