A sociological concept is a word, or short phrase, that refers to something specific in sociology. Like any subject, sociology comes with its own terms and language, and your job in the exam is to show that you understand sociological language by using it appropriately, at the right time, and in the right places, as well as explaining, or giving examples, that reveal understanding. For example, the word ‘habitus’ is a sociological concept. It is not a word that you would use in everyday language, but one that is very important to sociology. Remember, however, that some concepts are the same as words that might be used in non-sociological discussions, but have a particular meaning in sociology. For example, the word ‘cult’ outside sociology may have many meanings, whereas in sociology it refers to a specific type of religious organisation.
Aside from using the language of sociology, the mark schemes specify that to reach the top band of marks, good use of concepts is essential. Sometimes this is described by exam markers as ‘conceptual detail’. Initially, this may mean selecting the concepts that are relevant to the question. There will not be a set of ideal concepts available to answer a particular essay question, but as long as you apply concepts appropriately, you will be credited. For example, in an answer you may choose to use concepts which come from another perspective in order to offer a counterargument. Alternatively, you may choose a concept that is from another topic and apply it in a way that takes the same view as the argument. So, you have a lot of scope when it comes to choosing and using sociological concepts.
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