Sociology P2 2018-2022

Cambridge International Examinations
Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
Paper 2 Theory and Methods May/June 2018
1 hour 30 minutes
No Additional Materials are required.
* 6 6 0 3 9 1 6 2 9 1 *
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST
An answer booklet is provided inside this question paper. You should follow the instructions on the front cover
of the answer booklet. If you need additional answer paper ask the invigilator for a continuation booklet.
Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.
The number of marks is given in brackets [ ] at the end of each question or part question.
This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.
DC (SCD (JB)) 144520/3

© UCLES 2018 [Turn over
1
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 There are two types of experiment used by sociologists to conduct research: laboratory and field
experiments. Both types of experiment can be used to test a hypothesis. Laboratory experiments
take place under controlled conditions. In these experiments, a researcher typically takes two
groups with similar social characteristics and subjects them to different experiences. An example
of this approach is Bandura’s study of the effects on young people of observing violent behaviour.
Field experiments are similar but take place in normal social conditions. Rosenthal and Jacobson
used this approach to examine how teacher expectations affect pupil performance in schools.
Positivists favour the use of experiments because they involve a scientific approach to research
and collect mainly quantitative data. Interpretivists, on the other hand, are critical of both laboratory
and field experiments. They identify a range of practical, ethical and theoretical problems with
their use.
(a) What is meant by the term hypothesis? [2]
(b) Describe two reasons why a researcher may choose a laboratory experiment rather than a
field experiment. [4]
(c) Explain why positivists are in favour of methods that use a scientific approach. [8]
(d) Assess arguments against the use of experiments in sociological research. [11]
Section B
Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.
2 ‘The values of the sociologist will inevitably affect their research.’ Explain and assess this
view. [25]
3 Explain and assess the interactionist view that individuals are free to choose their own social
roles. [25]
© UCLES 2018 9699/21/M/J/18
2
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes
* 8 8 5 8 2 0 2 0 4 9 *
DC (SCD (JB)) 144521/2

3
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 There are four main types of interview used in sociological research: group, structured,
unstructured and semi-structured interview. Of these, structured interviews are used mainly
to collect quantitative data while the others are used mainly to collect qualitative data. Group
interviews are a method where a researcher interviews people together in a group setting. The
respondents in these interviews may or may not have common characteristics depending upon
the topic that is being researched. In the interview, the researcher will ask a series of questions
and attempt to generate discussion between group members. A sociologist using this method
will listen to what respondents say and observe their behaviour. The data produced is therefore
detailed and in-depth.
Qualitative data is considered to be high in validity. This is one of the reasons why interpretivists
favour the use of research methods that collect qualitative data. Positivists, on the other hand, are
critical of interviews that collect qualitative data and identify a number of theoretical problems with
their use.
(a) What is meant by the term semi-structured interview? [2]
(b) Describe two limitations of using a group interview. [4]
(c) Explain why a sociologist might use a group interview as a method of research. [8]
(d) Assess positivist arguments against the use of interview methods that collect qualitative
data. [11]
Section B
2 ‘Interactionists offer the best understanding of the relationship between the individual and society.’
Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Value consensus is the basis of social order in modern industrial societies.’ Explain and assess
this view. [25]
© UCLES 2018 9699/22/M/J/18
4
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes
* 9 0 0 4 0 8 6 9 3 2 *
DC (SCD (JB)) 144522/2

5
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Content analysis is often used by sociologists to study the media. It is a method that is mostly
used to collect quantitative data by counting how many times a word, theme or image occurs in a
magazine, television programme or website. The Glasgow Media Group used content analysis to
explore the language used in news reporting to see whether it contained political bias.
Interpretivists are critical of content analysis; they argue that the quantitative data collected using
this method is low in validity. Interpretivists prefer methods that collect qualitative data, such as
unstructured interviews and participant observation. However, positivists are critical of these
qualitative approaches, which they see as unscientific.
(a) What is meant by the term validity? [2]
(b) Describe two strengths of using content analysis. [4]
(c) Explain why interpretivists criticise the use of quantitative data in sociological research. [8]
(d) Assess the limitations of using qualitative data in sociological research. [11]
Section B
2 Explain and assess the view that human behaviour is determined by structural forces. [25]
3 Explain and assess the post-modernist view that class divisions have little influence in shaping
social identities today. [25]
© UCLES 2018 9699/23/M/J/18
6
Cambridge Assessment International Education
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
1 hour 30 minutes
* 6 8 8 6 6 3 9 4 2 0 *
DC (LEG) 164032/2
7
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
Some types of sociological research, such as large-scale surveys, can be costly and require
considerable funding. For example, longitudinal studies are costly because they collect large amounts
of quantitative data from a sample at regular intervals over many years. Cost can also be a concern
with qualitative methods. For example, methods that produce qualitative data, such as participant
observation, can take a long time to complete. This can be expensive for the researcher. One issue
linked to research expense is that the study may be influenced by sources of funding.
Rather than opting for either a quantitative or qualitative approach, some sociologists use a mix of
different methods to combine the approaches. For example, Parker studied illegal drug use among
young people using questionnaires and unstructured interviews.
1 (a) What is meant by the term qualitative data? [2]
(b) Describe two ways in which a study may be influenced by sources of funding. [4]
(c) Explain the strengths of using a longitudinal study. [8]
(d) Assess the arguments for using a mix of different methods in sociological research. [11]
Section B
2 ‘It is a mistake to use a scientific approach in sociological research.’ Explain and assess this view.
[25]
3 ‘Modernist sociological theories are no longer useful in understanding the way in which societies
work.’ Explain and assess this postmodernist view. [25]
© UCLES 2019 9699/21/M/J/19
8
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes
* 0 3 5 8 7 6 4 7 7 1 *
DC (LEG) 163961/1
9
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Techniques for collecting quantitative data include structured interviews, questionnaires,

experiments and content analysis. A structured interview consists of a spoken question and
answer session between interviewer and respondent. In this type of interview each respondent is
asked the same questions in the same order. Questionnaires are a set of written questions that
are designed to be completed by the respondent in their own time, away from the researcher.
Positivists consider questionnaires to be high in reliability, though interpretivists argue that the data
produced may lack validity. This is one reason interpretivists are in favour of using unstructured
interviews and are against the use of questionnaires and structured interviews.
(a) What is meant by the term content analysis? [2]
(b) Describe two advantages of using a structured interview. [4]
(c) Explain why questionnaires are considered to be high in reliability. [8]
(d) Assess interpretivist arguments in favour of using unstructured interviews in sociological

research. [11]
Section B
2 ‘Only the rich and powerful benefit from the existence of social order.’ Explain and assess this
view. [25]
3 ‘Both structuralist and interactionist theories fail to adequately explain the relationship between
the individual and society.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2019 9699/22/M/J/19
10
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes
* 3 1 3 5 4 5 7 3 0 4 *
DC (LEG) 163962/1
11
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Modernist theories like functionalism and Marxism emphasise the importance of social structures
in shaping culture and group identities. Marxists argue that in modern industrial societies group
identities are based primarily on social class, with each class having clearly identifiable cultural
and social characteristics. Marxists also argue that culture is used by the ruling class to exercise
power over the working class. One class difference in culture that sociologists have identified is
that between popular culture and high culture.
Postmodernists reject these ideas, arguing they are outdated and irrelevant. Postmodernists
believe that there have been significant changes in society over the last 50 years and that these
changes, which include the process of globalisation, have transformed social identities. There are
no longer clear and fixed social identities as individuals today are free to make choices about who
they are regardless of their gender, age, ethnicity or class.
(a) What is meant by the term globalisation? [2]
(b) Describe two characteristics of working-class identity. [4]
(c) Explain the difference between popular culture and high culture. [8]
(d) Assess the postmodernist view that social identities are no longer clear and fixed. [11]
Section B
2 ‘The data generated by participant observation is far more useful in sociological research than the
data collected from questionnaires.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Socialisation is the most important factor in explaining human behaviour.’ Explain and assess this
view. [25]
© UCLES 2019 9699/23/M/J/19
12
Cambridge International AS & A Level
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
1 hour 30 minutes
You must answer on the enclosed answer booklet.

* 6 4 7 5 4 9 8 2 1 3 *
You will need: Answer booklet (enclosed)
INSTRUCTIONS
● Answer two questions in total:
Section A: answer Question 1.
Section B: answer either Question 2 or Question 3.
● Follow the instructions on the front cover of the answer booklet. If you need additional answer paper,
ask the invigilator for a continuation booklet.
INFORMATION
● The total mark for this paper is 50.
● The number of marks for each question or part question is shown in brackets [ ].
This document has 4 pages. Blank pages are indicated.
DC (PQ) 180965
13
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
Interviews can be of three main types: structured, unstructured and semi-structured. There are important
differences between these types of interview. Structured interviews are similar to questionnaires in that
they contain pre-set questions that are asked in the same order every time. In a structured interview
the questions are asked by an interviewer, whereas a questionnaire is usually given to a respondent
to complete on their own. Both questionnaires and structured interviews are usually used to collect
quantitative data, and as such are unlikely to be used by interpretivist sociologists.
In contrast to the pre-set questions used in structured interviews, an unstructured interview is more
like a conversation. This in-depth nature means that unstructured interviews generate qualitative data.
A semi-structured interview is a mixture of structured and unstructured interviewing methods, where a
number of questions may be pre-set but the interviewer is able to ask additional questions.
1 (a) What is meant by the term qualitative data? [2]
(b) Describe two advantages of using questionnaires. [4]
(c) Explain why interpretivist sociologists are unlikely to use structured interviews. [8]
(d) Assess arguments in favour of semi-structured interviews as a method of sociological

research. [11]
Section B
2 ‘Sociologists have exaggerated the extent to which people conform to social norms and
expectations in modern societies.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Sociologists should use their research to help powerless groups in society.’ Explain and assess
this view. [25]
© UCLES 2020 9699/21/M/J/20
14
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes

* 1 0 5 4 9 7 0 3 4 2 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (KN) 180966/1
15
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Socialisation is the process by which we learn appropriate social behaviour. This process is
reinforced through sanctions and rewards that encourage the individual to conform to social roles,
norms and values. Sociologists argue that human behaviour is influenced by nurture rather than
nature. What they mean is that socialisation, rather than biological instinct, is the main factor
influencing human behaviour.
The functionalist perspective views socialisation as a one-way process through which people
internalise values and learn to follow the norms of society. Sociologists who favour the interactionist
approach disagree with this view. They argue that learning to be a competent social actor is more
complex than functionalists suggest, and that this process takes place primarily through interaction
with others.
(a) What is meant by the term social roles? [2]
(b) Describe two examples of sanctions that encourage people to follow the norms of society. [4]
(c) Explain why sociologists argue that human behaviour is influenced by nurture rather than
nature. [8]
(d) Assess the view that socialisation is a one-way process. [11]
Section B
2 Explain and assess the view that quantitative data provides a better understanding of society than
qualitative data. [25]
3 ‘There is more value consensus in society than conflict theories recognise.’ Explain and assess
this view. [25]
© UCLES 2020 9699/22/M/J/20
16
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes

* 4 1 8 5 3 7 6 8 9 5 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (PQ) 180948/3
17
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Values and norms are part of the culture of a society and are learned through socialisation.
Sociologists aim to understand the way in which society shapes individual behaviour through
studying the process of socialisation. Values are the general beliefs or ideas about what is right or
wrong in a society or social group. However, these values may vary between different groups in a
society and they may also change over time.
While behaviour varies between individuals, social order largely depends on people conforming to
the norms and values of their society. Functionalists argue that social order is created through the
process of socialisation. By contrast, conflict theories argue that there are other factors that also
influence social order.
(a) What is meant by the term norms? [2]
(b) Describe two ways in which society may shape how people behave. [4]
(c) Explain why values may vary between social groups. [8]
(d) Assess the functionalist explanation of social order. [11]
Section B
2 ‘Qualitative methods have little value in sociological research because they lack reliability.’ Explain
and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘It is both desirable and possible for sociology to be objective.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2020 9699/23/M/J/20
18
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
Paper 2 The Family May/June 2021
1 hour 30 minutes

* 0 1 5 5 7 0 4 9 9 1 *
INSTRUCTIONS
● Answer four questions in total:
Section A: answer all questions.
INFORMATION
This document has 4 pages. Any blank pages are indicated.
DC (PQ) 201555/1
19
2
Section A
Answer all questions in this section.
1 Describe two reasons for the decline in the number of marriages in some societies. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways the family supports ruling class interests, according to Marxist theory. [8]
(b) Explain one strength and one limitation of the Marxist view of the family. [6]
3 ‘Conjugal roles have become equal.’
(a) Explain this view. [10]
(b) Using sociological material, give one argument against this view. [6]
Section B
Answer one question in this section.
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that the family has lost many of its functions. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that in contemporary society the family has become child-centred. [26]
© UCLES 2021 9699/21/M/J/21
20
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes

* 6 3 2 5 6 9 4 1 8 1 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (PQ) 202443
21
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways increased life expectancy has impacted on the family. [4]
2 (a) Explain two reasons why there may be greater gender equality within the family today than in
the past. [8]
(b) Explain one strength and one limitation of the liberal feminist view of the family. [6]
3 ‘Cohabitation is replacing marriage.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the functionalist perspective on the role of the family. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that social policies have had a positive impact upon the family. [26]
© UCLES 2021 9699/22/M/J/21
22
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes

* 4 7 5 5 4 3 8 0 4 8 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (PQ) 202444
23
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways the state may influence the family. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways the family supports the interests of men, according to feminists. [8]
(b) Explain two limitations of radical feminist views of the family. [6]
3 ‘Social class is the main influence on family structure.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that increased social opportunities for women are the main reason for the rise in
divorce rates. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate Marxist explanations of the role of the family. [26]
© UCLES 2021 9699/23/M/J/21
24
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
1 hour 30 minutes

* 5 1 8 9 5 4 0 5 8 9 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (LK) 302081/2
25
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways motherhood has changed. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways the role of women in the family supports capitalism. [8]
(b) Explain two limitations of Marxist feminist views of the family. [6]
3 ‘Changes in social policy are the main reason for an increase in divorce.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that roles in the family are no longer fixed. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that the family benefits all its members equally. [26]
© UCLES 2022 9699/21/M/J/22
26
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes

* 0 4 4 2 1 0 7 9 4 3 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (CE) 302868/1
27
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways the increase of women in paid employment has affected the family. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways the family supports the economy. [8]
(b) Explain two strengths of Marxist views of the family. [6]
3 ‘The experience of childhood is different today than in the past.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that social policies are the main reason for increased family diversity. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that the family is a patriarchal institution. [26]
© UCLES 2022 9699/22/M/J/22
28
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes

* 7 2 5 8 1 7 6 7 4 8 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (CE) 219033
29
2
Section A
1 Describe two functions performed by the family. [4]
2 (a) Explain two reasons for an increase in the age of first marriage. [8]
(b) Explain one strength and one limitation of postmodernist views on family diversity. [6]
3 ‘Men have more power than women in the family.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that increased life expectancy has had a positive impact on family members.
[26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that the nuclear family is no longer the dominant family form. [26]
© UCLES 2022 9699/23/M/J/22
30
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
Paper 2 Theory and Methods October/November 2018
1 hour 30 minutes
* 4 4 0 6 8 7 0 3 2 9 *
DC (SC) 144528/2
31
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Socialisation is the process through which individuals learn how to behave in society. Different
agents of socialisation contribute to this process at various stages in a person’s life. For example,
the peer group can be especially powerful in shaping the identity of children and young adults.
These agents of socialisation ensure that most individuals conform to the roles that society
expects of them. However, there is still great variation in behaviour, with different social groups
taking on very different norms and values. For example, Paul Willis’s study showed how different
groups of pupils in a secondary school had very different attitudes towards education.
Feminist sociologists take a great interest in socialisation; in particular they focus on the formation
of gender identity within the family. They emphasise how the roles of males and females are
largely determined by gender role socialisation as individuals learn the forms of behaviour that are
regarded as appropriate for their gender.
(a) What is meant by the term values? [2]
(b) Describe two ways that the peer group contributes to the formation of gender identity. [4]
(c) Explain why norms may vary between different social groups. [8]
(d) Assess the view that socialisation within the family is the main factor shaping gender identity.
[11]
Section B
2 ‘In order to fully understand society, sociological research should be based on the methods of the
natural sciences.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Questionnaires do not provide a complete picture of social reality.’ Explain and assess this view.
[25]
© UCLES 2018 9699/21/O/N/18
32
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes
* 9 9 0 6 2 3 1 5 4 1 *
DC (SC) 144529/2
33
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Before beginning their research, sociologists need to make key decisions about research
design. These include which research method to use, whether to use a non-representative or
a representative sample and whether to conduct a pilot study. A pilot study involves conducting
research on some members of the survey population before the full study takes place. Sometimes
researchers use more than one research method. This is known as methodological pluralism and
there are a number of reasons why a sociologist might use this approach.
Choices about research design will be shaped by the theoretical perspective of the researcher.
For example, interpretivists and positivists may make different research choices because they
hold different views about the nature of sociology. Practical factors may also have an influence on
research design.
(a) What is meant by the term representative sample? [2]
(b) Describe two reasons why a researcher might use a pilot study. [4]
(c) Explain why a sociologist might use more than one method in their research. [8]
(d) Assess the importance of practical factors in shaping a sociologist’s research design. [11]
Section B
2 ‘The data collected using questionnaires has little value in sociology compared to the data
collected using unstructured interviews.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Human behaviour is more complex and varied than the functionalist theory suggests.’ Explain and
assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2018 9699/22/O/N/18
34
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes
* 9 1 1 7 4 9 4 1 1 8 *
DC (KS) 161564
35
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Socialisation is the process through which individuals learn how to behave in society. Different
agents of socialisation contribute to this process at various stages in a person’s life. For example,
the peer group can be especially powerful in shaping the identity of children and young adults.
These agents of socialisation ensure that most individuals conform to the roles that society
expects of them. However, there is still great variation in behaviour, with different social groups
taking on very different norms and values. For example, Paul Willis’s study showed how different
groups of pupils in a secondary school had very different attitudes towards education.
Feminist sociologists take a great interest in socialisation; in particular they focus on the formation
of gender identity within the family. They emphasise how the roles of males and females are
largely determined by gender role socialisation as individuals learn the forms of behaviour that are
regarded as appropriate for their gender.
(a) What is meant by the term values? [2]
(b) Describe two ways that the peer group contributes to the formation of gender identity. [4]
(c) Explain why norms may vary between different social groups. [8]
(d) Assess the view that socialisation within the family is the main factor shaping gender identity.
[11]
Section B
2 ‘In order to fully understand society, sociological research should be based on the methods of the
natural sciences.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Questionnaires do not provide a complete picture of social reality.’ Explain and assess this view.
[25]
© UCLES 2018 9699/23/O/N/18
36
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
1 hour 30 minutes
* 8 6 9 1 5 2 4 2 7 1 *
DC (NH) 163963/1
37
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Positivists use methods that are scientific. This is because they think that the best way to find out
about social behaviour is to apply the methods of the natural sciences. For positivists, the aim of
research is to gather data that may be used to confirm or reject a hypothesis. To do this they use
methods which collect quantitative data. These include questionnaires, structured interviews, field
experiments and laboratory experiments. For positivists, one advantage of these types of method
is that they allow the researcher to ensure that their research is free from bias.
However, interpretivists think that people cannot be studied in the same way as objects in the
natural world and for this reason they argue against the use of scientific methods in sociological
research. Interpretivists also believe that data produced using methods like questionnaires lacks
validity.
(a) What is meant by the term structured interview? [2]
(b) Describe two features that make laboratory experiments scientific. [4]
(c) Explain why it is difficult to ensure that sociological research is free from bias. [8]
(d) Assess the interpretivist argument that data produced using questionnaires lacks validity. [11]
Section B
2 ‘All members of society benefit from the existence of social order.’ Explain and assess this view.
[25]
3 ‘Gender has little influence on social identity today.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2019 9699/21/O/N/19
38
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes
* 8 9 7 1 7 3 2 2 3 8 *
DC (RW) 163964/2
39
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 In sociological research there is a distinction between primary data and secondary data. Both types
of data may be quantitative or qualitative. Secondary data is information that has been gathered by
another individual or an organisation and used by a sociologist to carry out their research. Official
statistics are an example of a quantitative secondary source of data that sociologists may make
use of. Official statistics are collected by governments and provide important statistical evidence
of social trends such as changes in birth rates, crime levels, educational achievement and rates
of marriage. In the UK, the government conducts a national census on the whole population every
10 years and this provides statistical evidence that sociologists may use as a secondary source of
data.
Positivists see official statistics as a useful secondary source which can provide reliable data.
However, interpretivists argue that quantitative research data lacks validity. For this reason they
are more likely to use qualitative secondary sources of data, such as diaries and private letters.
(a) What is meant by the term primary data? [2]
(b) Describe two reasons why official statistics may lack validity. [4]
(c) Explain why positivists think official statistics are a useful source of data. [8]
(d) Assess the strengths of using qualitative secondary sources in sociological research. [11]
Section B
2 ‘The topics sociologists choose to study should reflect the values they hold and the people they
want to help.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 ‘Interactionist accounts of the relationship between the individual and society have more strengths
than limitations.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2019 9699/22/O/N/19
40
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes
* 6 9 6 1 1 7 4 5 9 0 *
DC (KN) 175964
41
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Positivists use methods that are scientific. This is because they think that the best way to find out
about social behaviour is to apply the methods of the natural sciences. For positivists, the aim of
research is to gather data that may be used to confirm or reject a hypothesis. To do this they use
methods which collect quantitative data. These include questionnaires, structured interviews, field
experiments and laboratory experiments. For positivists, one advantage of these types of method
is that they allow the researcher to ensure that their research is free from bias.
However, interpretivists think that people cannot be studied in the same way as objects in the
natural world and for this reason they argue against the use of scientific methods in sociological
research. Interpretivists also believe that data produced using methods like questionnaires lacks
validity.
(a) What is meant by the term structured interview? [2]
(b) Describe two features that make laboratory experiments scientific. [4]
(c) Explain why it is difficult to ensure that sociological research is free from bias. [8]
(d) Assess the interpretivist argument that data produced using questionnaires lacks validity. [11]
Section B
2 ‘All members of society benefit from the existence of social order.’ Explain and assess this view.
[25]
3 ‘Gender has little influence on social identity today.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2019 9699/23/O/N/19
42
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
1 hour 30 minutes

* 0 5 8 9 0 9 5 9 1 4 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (SC) 180952/1
43
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Sociological research involves a series of stages, the first of which is to decide on an area or
subject for research. Other stages involve choosing a research method and deciding whether or
not to conduct a pilot study before the main research takes place. The choice of research method
is likely to be influenced by both practical and theoretical factors.
For many sociologists, the purpose of research is to understand social problems, which are issues
that are seen to threaten social stability. Using their research findings, these sociologists often
recommend solutions to social problems in the form of social policies. In this way, they aim to use
their research to change society for the better.
(a) What is meant by the term social policy? [2]
(b) Describe two advantages of using a pilot study in sociological research. [4]
(c) Explain why some sociological researchers aim to change society for the better. [8]
(d) Assess the view that practical factors are the main influence on a sociologist’s choice of
research method. [11]
Section B
2 Explain and assess the positivist view that qualitative methods should not be used in sociological
research. [25]
3 ‘The functionalist theory of socialisation is too deterministic.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2020 9699/21/O/N/20
44
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes

* 3 8 1 1 9 7 4 8 5 7 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (SC) 180953
45
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 To understand society, positivists believe that sociology should follow the approach used in the
natural sciences. They believe that the social world and the physical world are similar and so can
be studied in the same way. Positivists also believe that it is possible to identify laws governing
human behaviour, in much the same way that physicists and biologists identify laws governing the
natural world. This can be achieved by using quantitative methods to establish correlations that
may be used to test a hypothesis.
Interpretivists, however, have questioned whether it is appropriate to study society using the
methods and procedures of the natural sciences. Interpretivists prefer methods of research that
make it possible to enter the lives of the people they are studying and develop an understanding
of their social relationships. As such, interpretivists are likely to favour qualitative methods such as
unstructured interviews to conduct sociological research.
(a) What is meant by the term correlation? [2]
(b) Describe two research methods favoured by positivists. [4]
(c) Explain why interpretivists favour the use of unstructured interviews in sociological research.
[8]
(d) Assess arguments for the use of quantitative methods in sociological research. [11]
Section B
2 ‘Interactionists offer the best explanation of the relationship between the individual and society.’
Explain and assess this view. [25]
3 Explain and assess the Marxist view that social order is maintained through ideology. [25]
© UCLES 2020 9699/22/O/N/20
46
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes

* 0 9 8 9 1 3 1 8 7 0 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (NF) 204896
47
2
Section A
Answer Question 1.
1 Sociological research involves a series of stages, the first of which is to decide on an area or
subject for research. Other stages involve choosing a research method and deciding whether or
not to conduct a pilot study before the main research takes place. The choice of research method
is likely to be influenced by both practical and theoretical factors.
For many sociologists, the purpose of research is to understand social problems, which are issues
that are seen to threaten social stability. Using their research findings, these sociologists often
recommend solutions to social problems in the form of social policies. In this way, they aim to use
their research to change society for the better.
(a) What is meant by the term social policy? [2]
(b) Describe two advantages of using a pilot study in sociological research. [4]
(c) Explain why some sociological researchers aim to change society for the better. [8]
(d) Assess the view that practical factors are the main influence on a sociologist’s choice of
research method. [11]
Section B
2 Explain and assess the positivist view that qualitative methods should not be used in sociological
research. [25]
3 ‘The functionalist theory of socialisation is too deterministic.’ Explain and assess this view. [25]
© UCLES 2020 9699/23/O/N/20
48
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
Paper 2 The Family October/November 2021
1 hour 30 minutes

* 5 9 4 3 9 2 7 8 6 9 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (LK) 202512/1
49
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways the family benefits society. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways lone-parent families can have a negative impact on society, according to
the New Right. [8]
(b) Explain two limitations of New Right views of the family. [6]
3 ‘Gender is the most important factor affecting the experiences of children in the family.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate feminist perspectives on equality in the family. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that there is no dominant family type today. [26]
© UCLES 2021 9699/21/O/N/21
50
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes

* 2 9 9 5 4 7 6 7 7 8 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (LEG) 202478
51
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways fatherhood has changed. [4]
2 (a) Explain two reasons for the growth in family diversity. [8]
(b) Explain two limitations of postmodernist views of the family. [6]
3 ‘The main role of the family is ideological control.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that conjugal roles continue to be unequal. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that the position of grandparents in the family has improved. [26]
© UCLES 2021 9699/22/O/N/21
52
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes

* 1 5 3 4 8 5 6 5 9 6 *
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
DC (CE) 221182
53
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways the family benefits society. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways lone-parent families can have a negative impact on society, according to
the New Right. [8]
(b) Explain two limitations of New Right views of the family. [6]
3 ‘Gender is the most important factor affecting the experiences of children in the family.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate feminist perspectives on equality in the family. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that there is no dominant family type today. [26]
© UCLES 2021 9699/23/O/N/21
54
SOCIOLOGY 9699/21
1 hour 30 minutes

*1512980461*
INSTRUCTIONS
• Answer four questions in total:
• Follow the instructions on the front cover of the answer booklet. If you need additional answer paper,
INFORMATION
• The total mark for this paper is 60.
• The number of marks for each question or part question is shown in brackets [ ].
11_9699_21_2022_1.13
55
2
Section A
1 Describe two household forms that are not based on marriage. [4]
2 (a) Explain two reasons why there may still be gender inequality in the family. [8]
(b) Explain two strengths of liberal feminist views of the family. [6]
3 ‘The family performs functions that benefit the whole of society.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that the social position of children in the family has improved. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that social class is the most important factor influencing family diversity. [26]
© UCLES 2022 11_9699_21_2022_1.13
56
SOCIOLOGY 9699/22
1 hour 30 minutes

*0710128679*
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
• The total mark for this paper is 60.
11_9699_22_2022_1.13
57
2
Section A
1 Describe two ways that roles in the family have become more equal. [4]
2 (a) Explain two ways the family benefits its members, according to functionalists. [8]
(b) Explain one strength and one limitation of the functionalist view of the family. [6]
3 ‘Ethnicity is the main factor affecting the experiences of children in the family.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that the improved position of women in society is the main reason for a decline
in marriage. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that fatherhood is different today than in the past. [26]
© UCLES 2022 11_9699_22_2022_1.13
58
SOCIOLOGY 9699/23
1 hour 30 minutes

*0417378666*
INSTRUCTIONS
INFORMATION
• The total mark for this paper is 60 .
11_9699_23_2022_1.4
59
2
Section A
1 Describe two household forms that are not based on marriage. [4]
2 (a) Explain two reasons why there may still be gender inequality in the family. [8]
(b) Explain two strengths of liberal feminist views of the family. [6]
3 ‘The family performs functions that benefit the whole of society.’
Section B
EITHER
4 Evaluate the view that the social position of children in the family has improved. [26]
OR
5 Evaluate the view that social class is the most important factor influencing family diversity. [26]
© UCLES 2022 11_9699_23_2022_1.4
60

Sociology P2 2018-2022

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Sociology P2 2018-2022

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Cambridge International Examinations

Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.

This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.

DC (SCD (JB)) 144520/3

(a) What is meant by the term hypothesis? [2]

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2018 9699/21/M/J/18

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.

This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.

DC (SCD (JB)) 144521/2

(a) What is meant by the term semi-structured interview? [2]

(b) Describe two limitations of using a group interview. [4]

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2018 9699/22/M/J/18

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.

This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.

DC (SCD (JB)) 144522/2

(a) What is meant by the term validity? [2]

(b) Describe two strengths of using content analysis. [4]

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2018 9699/23/M/J/18

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.

This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.

1 (a) What is meant by the term qualitative data? [2]

(c) Explain the strengths of using a longitudinal study. [8]

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2019 9699/21/M/J/19

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.

This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.

1 Techniques for collecting quantitative data include structured interviews, questionnaires,

(a) What is meant by the term content analysis? [2]

(b) Describe two advantages of using a structured interview. [4]

(c) Explain why questionnaires are considered to be high in reliability. [8]

(d) Assess interpretivist arguments in favour of using unstructured interviews in sociological

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2019 9699/22/M/J/19

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS FIRST

Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or Question 3.

This document consists of 2 printed pages, 2 blank pages and 1 Insert.

(a) What is meant by the term globalisation? [2]

(b) Describe two characteristics of working-class identity. [4]

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2019 9699/23/M/J/19

You must answer on the enclosed answer booklet.

You will need: Answer booklet (enclosed)

This document has 4 pages. Blank pages are indicated.

1 (a) What is meant by the term qualitative data? [2]

(b) Describe two advantages of using questionnaires. [4]

(d) Assess arguments in favour of semi-structured interviews as a method of sociological

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.

© UCLES 2020 9699/21/M/J/20

You must answer on the enclosed answer booklet.

You will need: Answer booklet (enclosed)

This document has 4 pages. Blank pages are indicated.

(a) What is meant by the term social roles? [2]

(d) Assess the view that socialisation is a one-way process. [11]

Answer either Question 2 or Question 3.