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AQA A-Level Sociology: Introduction to the New Right / Neo-Liberalism (Theory & Methods)
High engagement | Debate-based learning | Real-life application

This resource introduces students to Neo-Liberalism / New Right theory within the Theory and Methods section of AQA A-Level Sociology. Perfect for Year 12 students, this lesson challenges learners to explore a contrasting right-wing perspective and critically evaluate its influence on social policy and inequality.

What’s included:

Engaging PowerPoint introducing key thinkers (e.g. Charles Murray), concepts (e.g. dependency culture, meritocracy, marketisation), and structured tasks with opportunities for discussion, debate, and application

A3 summary sheet to consolidate key beliefs, terms, examples, and comparisons with other perspectives

‘Defend Your Theory’ discussion activity – 10 provocative statements for students to justify from a New Right viewpoint and defend in role against Marxist, Functionalist, or Feminist critiques

Core content covered:

Free market economics, privatisation, marketisation
Traditional family values and moral decline
Minimal state intervention and individual responsibility
Charles Murray, the underclass, and welfare criticism
Criticisms from Marxism and Feminism

Learning aims:
Understand and explain New Right beliefs and values
Analyse real-life applications (e.g. welfare reform, education policy)
Compare and evaluate New Right theory with other sociological perspectives
Practise AO3 skills through structured debate and PEEL scaffolding

This resource is ideal for creating challenging, thought-provoking lessons with a strong emphasis on critical engagement, real-world relevance, and student-led evaluation.