How to Master AQA A-Level Sociology Paper 2 in 2026
AQA A-Level Sociology Paper 2 (7192/2) is the Topics in Sociology paper. It lasts 2 hours, is worth 80 marks, and is based on two optional topics from the specification — such as Families and Households, Beliefs in Society, Global Development, the Media, or Stratification and Differentiation.
This paper tests both breadth and depth of knowledge, with a strong emphasis on extended writing. Here’s how to prepare effectively for the 2026 exam.
1. Understand the Paper 2 Format
Paper 2 is split into two sections, each on a different topic you’ve studied. In each section you will answer:
Two 10-mark questions
One 20-mark essay question
That means in total, you’ll face four 10-mark questions and two 20-mark essays. The 20-mark essays are particularly important, as they account for half the total marks.
2. Balance the Assessment Objectives
Paper 2 is marked against the three core AOs:
AO1 – Knowledge and understanding of sociological theories, studies, and concepts.
AO2 – Application of knowledge to specific topics (e.g. families, religion, media).
AO3 – Analysis and evaluation of theories, perspectives, and evidence.
The 10-mark “outline and explain” questions test AO1 and AO2 heavily, while the 20-mark essays require sustained AO3 evaluation.
3. Common Student Challenges
Examiners’ reports highlight some typical mistakes:
- Listing studies without developing analysis.
- Writing descriptive answers that lack evaluation.
- Treating the 10-mark questions like mini-essays instead of concise, focused responses.
- Running out of time — spending too long on 10-markers and leaving weaker 20-mark essays.
4. Revise Actively, Not Passively
To prepare for Paper 2, focus on:
Thematic revision (e.g. family diversity, secularisation, media effects, global inequality).
Practising essay structures for the 20-mark questions: introduction, analytical paragraphs, sustained evaluation, conclusion.
Revising key sociologists and studies, but practising applying them flexibly.
Answering 10-mark questions under timed conditions to develop precision and efficiency.
5. Use Predicted Papers for Realistic Practice
Because Paper 2 covers optional topics, it’s often the hardest to predict. That’s why expertly predicted papers are so useful — they mirror the format, structure, and level of challenge of the real exam.
We’ve created a Predicted Paper 2 (AQA Sociology 2026) with a full guided mark scheme. It replicates the real exam, showing exactly how answers are assessed and how to secure higher marks.
Final Thoughts
Paper 2 tests not only your topic knowledge but also your ability to write analytically and evaluate sociological arguments. By understanding the structure, balancing AO1/2/3, and practising with realistic predicted papers, you can build confidence and maximise your marks in 2026.