Social studies is a broad term that covers various fields related to human society and culture. It includes history, geography, citizenship, sociology, psychology, economics, and politics.
It can help students develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills. It also fosters their awareness of diversity, democracy, and global issues.
Are you considering home-schooling your child for social studies in the UK but have many questions?
Read on as we are sure to answer them all and more.
Importance of social studies home-schooling curriculum
Social studies is important for home-schooled students because it can help them develop a well-rounded understanding of the world.
According to the national curriculum for England, which applies to all local-authority-maintained schools in England, social studies is part of the core curriculum for key stages 1 to 4 (ages 5 to 16).
Guidance to an IGCSE Sociology home-schooling curriculum
IGCSE Sociology is a course that introduces students to the study of human society and social behaviour.
It covers culture, identity, socialisation, groups, inequality, power, social change, and research methods.
It also encourages students to develop their sociological imagination and apply it to their lives and experiences.
The IGCSE Sociology course generally consists of two written exams that assess students’ knowledge, understanding, and skills in sociology.
- The first exam covers family, education, crime, media, and culture.
- The second exam covers social inequality, power and authority, globalisation, social change, and research methods.
Overview of the A-Level Sociology home-schooling curriculum
A-Level Sociology is a course that builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in IGCSE Sociology.
It covers topics such as theory and methods, culture and identity, social differentiation, power and stratification, crime and deviance, education with research methods, health with research methods, beliefs in society, and global development with research methods.
The A-Level Sociology course consists of three written exams that assess students’ knowledge, understanding, and skills in sociology.
- The first exam covers theory and methods, culture and identity, social differentiation, power, and stratification.
- The second exam covers crime and deviance, education with research methods, and health with research methods.
- The third exam covers beliefs in society and global development with research methods.
Who are the ideal students for social studies home-schooling?
Social studies home-schooling can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for students who are:
- Curious and interested in learning about human society and culture.
- Open-minded and respectful of different perspectives and opinions.
- Critical and analytical thinkers who can evaluate evidence and arguments.
- Creative and expressive writers who can communicate their ideas clearly and persuasively.
- Self-motivated and independent learners who can manage their own time and resources.
Tips for choosing a social studies curriculum that fits your child’s needs
Choosing a social studies curriculum for your child can be daunting, especially if you are new to home education or social studies. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Consider your child’s age, level, goals, interests, and learning style.
Different courses may suit different students depending on their needs and preferences. Courses may differ in difficulty, comprehension, flexibility, theory vs practice, etc.
Research the different courses available and compare their features and benefits.
You can use online sources, such as websites, blogs, forums, reviews, etc., to learn more about the options you are interested in.
You can also contact the curriculum providers or other home educators who have used the course to ask questions or seek advice.
Review the curriculum materials and samples before buying or enrolling.
You can request or download the curriculum materials and samples from the curriculum providers or online sources. Check the materials’ quality, accuracy, relevance, and suitability for your child’s learning.
Try out the curriculum with your child before committing to it.
You can use the materials and samples to teach your child some lessons or topics from the curriculum.
Ask your child for feedback on how they like it.
Also, watch how your child likes and learns from the curriculum.
Consider how much money and time you can spend on the curriculum.
Remember to consider all the fees, from admission to buying books and equipment, before deciding.
Why choose Cambridge Home School Online for social studies
If you want a high-quality social studies home-school curriculum, consider Cambridge Home School Online.
It is a leading online school that offers elementary, IGCSE and A-Level social studies subjects for home-schooled students.
We offer many advantages, such as:
- We follow the Cambridge International GCSE and A-Level curriculum, widely recognised and respected by universities and employers worldwide.
- We provide live online lessons delivered by qualified and experienced teachers who are experts in their subjects.
- We offer small class sizes with a maximum of 8 to 10 students per class, which ensures individual attention and support for each student.
- We give access to a rich online learning platform with interactive resources, assignments, quizzes, feedback, etc.
- We prepare students for external exams with mock tests, revision sessions, and exam booking services.
For more on why Cambridge Home School Online is the social studies school for your child, watch this video by Mr Hirst, Head of Sociology.
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FAQ
Why is Social Studies Important for Home-Schooled Students?
Social studies is crucial as it helps students understand human society and culture. It’s part of the core curriculum in England for key stages 1 to 4. It fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and awareness of global issues.
What Does the IGCSE Sociology Home-Schooling Curriculum Cover?
The IGCSE Sociology curriculum introduces the study of human society and social behaviour. Topics include culture, identity, inequality, power, social change, and research methods. Assessment is typically via two written exams.
What About A-Level Sociology?
A-Level Sociology builds upon IGCSE, covering more advanced topics such as theory, methods, culture, identity, social differentiation, and power. Assessment consists of three written exams.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Social Studies Home-Schooling?
Students who are curious, open-minded, analytical, expressive, and self-motivated would benefit the most from a social studies home-schooling curriculum.
Tips for Choosing a Social Studies Curriculum
- Assess Needs: Consider your child’s age, interests, and learning style.
- Do Research: Look into various courses and compare their offerings.
- Consult Others: Speak with other home educators or curriculum providers for advice.
- Review Materials: Check the quality and relevance of curriculum samples.
- Trial Period: Try out the curriculum with your child to get their feedback.
- Budget: Factor in all the costs involved in the chosen curriculum.
Why Choose Cambridge Home School Online for Social Studies?
- Cambridge Curriculum: We follow the Cambridge International GCSE and A-Level curriculum.
- Qualified Teachers: Our teachers are experienced and experts in their subjects.
- Small Classes: We offer small class sizes, ensuring individual attention.
- Rich Platform: Our online platform has interactive resources, quizzes, and assignments.
- Exam Preparation: We prepare students for external exams with mock tests and revision sessions.