Question 1: Define what a survey is in the context of sociological research.

Answer: A survey is a research method that involves collecting data from a large number of people by asking them questions, often through questionnaires or interviews.

Question 2: List two advantages of using surveys in sociological research.

Answer: Advantages include: 1) They allow researchers to gather information from a large number of people quickly. 2) They can provide quantitative data that is easy to analyse statistically.

Question 3: Identify two potential limitations or problems of using surveys.

Answer: Limitations include: 1) Respondents may give socially desirable answers instead of truthful ones. 2) The way questions are worded can influence answers, leading to bias.

Question 4: Describe the difference between closed questions and open questions in a survey.

Answer: Closed questions offer specific answer options (e.g., yes/no, multiple choice), while open questions allow respondents to answer in their own words, providing more detailed responses.

Question 5: Imagine you are designing a survey to find out students’ preferred subjects. Write two examples of closed questions and two examples of open questions you might include.

Answer: Closed questions: 1) 'Do you prefer science or arts? (Science/Arts)'. 2) 'Are you interested in sports? (Yes/No)'. Open questions: 1) 'Why do you prefer your chosen subject?'. 2) 'What could be done to improve your preferred subject?'

Question 6: Explain why sampling is important in conducting a survey.

Answer: Sampling is important because it allows researchers to select a manageable group of people from the larger population, making the survey practical and ensuring the results are representative of the whole population.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram showing the process of conducting a survey, starting from designing questions to analysing responses. Use a large blank space for your sketch.

Answer: A correct sketch would include: a step labeled 'Design questions', an arrow pointing to 'Distribute survey', an arrow to 'Collect responses', and an arrow to 'Analyse data'.

Question 8: What is the main ethical consideration when conducting a survey with young people in a school setting?

Answer: The main ethical consideration is ensuring informed consent, meaning students and their parents/guardians agree to participate, and that their responses are kept confidential.

Question 9: Suggest one way to improve the validity of a survey.

Answer: One way to improve validity is to ensure questions are clear, unbiased, and directly related to what is being researched, so respondents understand and answer accurately.

Question 10: Explain how a survey can help sociologists understand social attitudes and opinions.

Answer: Surveys collect large amounts of data on what people think or feel about social issues, allowing sociologists to identify patterns, differences, and trends in social attitudes and opinions.