How to Master AQA A-Level Sociology Paper 1 in 2026
AQA A-Level Sociology Paper 1 (7192/1) is the first paper you’ll face and sets the tone for the rest of your exam series. It lasts 2 hours, is worth 80 marks, and covers Education with Theory and Methods. The paper is split into three sections, requiring a mix of short-answer responses, extended essays, and application of research methods.
Because Paper 1 tests such a broad range of skills, your preparation needs to be balanced and strategic. Here’s how to approach it effectively.
1. Understand the Paper 1 Format
Paper 1 is divided into three sections:
Education – one 4 mark, one 6 mark, one 10 mark, and one 30 mark question, all linked to an Item.
Methods in Context – one 20 mark question where you apply a research method to the study of education.
Theory and Methods – one 10 mark short essay on sociological theory or research methods.
This structure is designed to test everything from knowledge recall to extended analysis and evaluation.
2. Balance the Assessment Objectives
Every question is marked against three key assessment objectives:
AO1 – Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of sociological theories, concepts, and evidence.
AO2 – Apply sociological knowledge to education and research contexts.
AO3 – Analyse and evaluate sociological theories, methods, and arguments.
Top answers balance all three consistently. Weak answers often show good knowledge (AO1) but lack clear application (AO2) or proper evaluation (AO3).
3. Common Student Challenges
Examiners’ reports frequently highlight the same issues:
Students sometimes lift phrases directly from the Item instead of applying sociological knowledge to it.
Evaluation is often undeveloped or generic, with phrases like “this is a strength/weakness” but little explanation.
Some run out of time on the 30-mark essay, which is worth nearly 40% of the paper.
Effective time management and targeted practice on essay-style questions are crucial.
4. Revise Actively, Not Passively
Rereading notes is rarely enough. Instead, focus on:
Condensing key perspectives on education (Marxist, Functionalist, Feminist, New Right) into short comparison tables.
Practising application of methods (e.g. questionnaires, interviews, observations) specifically in an education setting.
Using timed essay practice to build coherent chains of analysis and evaluation.
Linking theory to real-world educational policies, like marketisation, academies, or pupil premium.
5. Use Predicted Papers for Realistic Practice
Past papers are helpful, but Paper 1 always demands a broad mix of skills, making it difficult. Predicted papers replicate the style, structure, and difficulty of the real exam, giving you realistic practice before the real thing in summer of 2026.
We’ve created a Predicted Paper 1 (AQA Sociology 2026) with a full guided mark scheme. It mirrors the real exam format and shows how marks are awarded, making it perfect for independent revision.
Final Thoughts
AQA Sociology Paper 1 is challenging because it combines education, research methods, and theory into one demanding exam. By understanding the format, balancing AO1/2/3, tackling common pitfalls, and using predicted papers for realistic practice, you’ll build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in 2026.