2251 Past Paper GCE Sociology Examiner report 2023

The 2251 Past Paper GCE Sociology Examiner Report 2023 is an essential Cambridge assessment resource for students, teachers, tutors, and schools preparing for Cambridge O Level Sociology (2251). The report reviews candidate performance in the May/June 2023 examination and provides question-by-question commentary from the Principal Examiners.

The report covers:

• Paper 1 – 2251/12
• Paper 2 – 2251/22

Key Examiner Feedback

Examiners emphasised that candidates should:

• Use sociological concepts throughout extended answers.
• Develop each point rather than simply listing ideas.
• Use relevant examples, studies, theories and empirical evidence.
• Organise extended responses into clear paragraphs.
• Answer the specific wording of the question rather than relying on common-sense explanations.
• Provide balanced arguments for “to what extent” questions.
• Finish extended responses with a focused, supported conclusion.

For Paper 1, the report particularly highlights the importance of linking answers directly to source material when a question requires candidates to use a source. Stronger responses developed source-based points with relevant sociological concepts and examples.

For Paper 2, examiners advised candidates to avoid unnecessary introductory paragraphs, clearly separate different points, and develop their arguments using appropriate sociological evidence. For the 15-mark questions, stronger answers generally presented developed arguments on both sides and included a supported judgement.

The 2023 Examiner Report is especially useful when studied alongside the corresponding Question Papers and Mark Schemes, as it shows not only what was asked but also how candidates’ responses were judged.