CAIE
Sociology
(9699)
2023
May/June Paper 12
Questions & Answers
Q1.
Short Answer
4 marks
Describe two features of longitudinal studies.
Model Answer:
Longitudinal studies collect data from the same people or group over a long period of time.
Explanation: This is a defining feature of longitudinal research.
Model Answer:
They allow sociologists to observe changes and developments over time.
Explanation: A key strength/feature is the ability to track change.
Q2a.
Structured
8 marks
Explain two ways the values of the sociologist may lead to bias in research findings.
Model Answer:
A sociologist's values may influence the choice of topic, leading them to study issues that support their own beliefs and ignore others, which can bias the findings.
Explanation: Personal values can shape what is researched and how it is framed.
Model Answer:
Values may affect the interpretation of data, so the sociologist may select or present evidence in a way that confirms their expectations rather than remaining objective.
Explanation: Bias can enter through analysis and interpretation of results.
Q2b.
Structured
6 marks
Explain two strengths of using a covert approach to participant observation.
Model Answer:
A covert approach may produce more valid data because participants are less likely to change their behaviour if they do not know they are being observed.
Explanation: Hidden observation reduces the Hawthorne effect.
Model Answer:
It can give the researcher access to private or closed groups that would not allow overt observation, allowing richer and more detailed data to be collected.
Explanation: Covert access can improve access and depth of information.
Q3a.
Structured
10 marks
‘Socialisation is a one-way process.’ Explain this view.
Model Answer:
This view means that socialisation is seen as a process in which society shapes the individual, with norms, values and roles being passed from social institutions to the person.
Explanation: The statement reflects a top-down view of socialisation.
Model Answer:
It suggests that individuals are passive recipients of social influences and simply absorb the culture of the society into which they are born.
Explanation: A one-way model assumes little active response from the individual.
Model Answer:
Examples include the family, education, peer groups and the media transmitting expectations to children and young people.
Explanation: These are common agencies of socialisation.
Q3b.
Structured
6 marks
Using sociological material, give one argument against this view.
Model Answer:
An argument against this view is that socialisation is a two-way process because individuals also influence society through their actions, choices and interactions.
Explanation: This challenges the idea that socialisation only flows from society to the individual.
Model Answer:
For example, interactionist sociologists argue that people actively interpret and negotiate social meanings rather than passively accepting them.
Explanation: This uses sociological material to show active agency.
Q4.
Essay
26 marks
Evaluate the view that social class is no longer an important influence on a person's identity.
Model Answer:
A balanced evaluation should consider arguments that class remains important because it shapes life chances, consumption patterns, education, work and cultural tastes, as well as arguments that identity is now more influenced by factors such as gender, ethnicity, age, lifestyle and individual choice.
Explanation: This captures the main evaluative direction expected in an essay response.
Q5.
Essay
26 marks
Evaluate the view that sociologists should use a scientific approach to research.
Model Answer:
A balanced evaluation should assess arguments for scientific methods such as reliability, objectivity, comparability and the ability to identify patterns, alongside criticisms that sociology studies meaningful human behaviour and may require interpretivist methods to understand subjective meanings.
Explanation: This reflects the main debate between positivist and interpretivist approaches.