Sociology 0495
About Course
The Cambridge IGCSE™ Sociology (0495) is an internationally recognised qualification designed primarily for learners aged 14–16, although it is suitable for students of other ages. This course develops your understanding of society, human behaviour, and social institutions through the study of key sociological concepts, theories, and research methods. No formal prior knowledge of Sociology is required. The qualification is typically completed over one academic year, assessed through two examination papers, and is normally taken in a single examination series.
Throughout this course, you will explore how societies function and how individuals interact within them. You will study research methods, identity, social inequality, family, education, and crime while developing the ability to analyse evidence, evaluate sociological perspectives, and apply theory to contemporary social issues. These skills strengthen critical thinking, communication, and evidence-based reasoning, preparing you for further study, including Cambridge International AS & A Level Sociology, as well as university pathways in sociology, psychology, law, education, criminology, politics, social work, journalism, public policy, and other social sciences.
At Polymath Institute, your study partner, you will learn through a structured digital learning platform featuring syllabus-aligned lessons, guided practice, topic exercises, quizzes, assessments, past paper practice, mock examinations, focused revision, and detailed progress tracking. With 24/7 tutoring support, you can study at your own pace, revisit challenging topics, strengthen weaker areas, and monitor your examination readiness throughout the course. Regular revision activities and realistic exam practice help you build confidence while connecting sociological knowledge to higher education opportunities and future careers requiring analytical thinking, communication, research, and problem-solving skills.
What Will You Learn?
- Explain key sociological concepts, theories, and research methods accurately.
- Analyse social institutions, identities, and patterns of inequality critically.
- Apply sociological evidence to contemporary social issues and debates.
- Evaluate different sociological perspectives using reasoned arguments.
- Interpret qualitative and quantitative research findings effectively.
- Demonstrate strong examination techniques through past papers and mock exams.
- Develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical problem-solving skills.
- Prepare confidently for higher grades, advanced study, and future careers.
Course Content
Syllabus Overview – Sociology 0495 (IGCSE™)
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Course Introduction
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Sociology 0495 syllabus and exam overview
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Textbooks and resources
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Set your study goals and strategy
Module 1: Research methods
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1.1 How do sociologists approach the study of society?
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1.2 What types of data & evidence do sociologists use?
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1.3 How do sociologists investigate society?
Module 2: Identity: self and society
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2.1 How do we learn our identity?
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2.1 How does society control us?
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2.3 What influences our social identity?
Module 3: Social stratification & inequality
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3.1 Is social stratification?
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3.2 What attempts have been made to reduce social inequalities?
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3.3 How has globalisation affected inequalities between societies?
Module 4: Family
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4.1 What are the different types of families?
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4.2 What is the role of the family for the individual and society?
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4.3 How is family life changing?
Module 5: Education
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5.1 What is education & schooling?
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5.2 What are the roles and functions of education?
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5.3 What factors help to explain differences in educational achievement and experience?
Module 6: Crime, deviance & social control
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6.1 What are crime, deviance & social control?
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6.2 What are the patterns of & explanations for crime and deviance?
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6.3 How is crime dealt with in different societies?