This is the official Cambridge O Level Sociology (2251) Question Paper 1 (Variant 2) from the 2026 May-June examination session. This question paper was sat by Cambridge students worldwide in 2026 and is published by Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE). Use it for timed practice under exam conditions to build familiarity with the question format, mark allocation, and time pressure.
Also referenced as: 2251_s26_qp_12 · 2251/12/m/j/26 qp · 2251/12 May/June 2026 qp
Paper 1: Research Methods, Identity and Inequality — This is Paper 1: Research Methods, Identity and Inequality, worth 80 marks with a duration of 2h. Section A: compulsory source-based Question 1 on Research Methods. Section B: choose ONE option — Question 2 on Identity: Self and Society OR Question 3 on Social Stratification and Inequality. Each question runs (a) define / source-extract → (b) state / give examples [2] → (c) explain three ways [6] → (d) explain three reasons [6] → (e) discuss extended response → (f) evaluate extended response. 2025 was the first session of the revised syllabus.
To self-assess your performance, use this question paper alongside the corresponding mark scheme (2251_s26_ms_12). Attempt the entire paper under timed conditions before opening the mark scheme — this trains both your subject knowledge and exam technique. Mark each question and record whether marks were lost due to knowledge gaps, method errors, or careless mistakes.
The most effective way to use this Sociology question paper is to simulate real exam conditions: set a timer for the full duration, work without notes, and write your answers on separate paper. After finishing, mark yourself using the official mark scheme — do not check answers during the paper. This builds exam stamina and reveals your genuine readiness. Repeat this process across 3–5 sessions to identify recurring weak topics in Sociology (2251).
