SOCIOLOGY

QUALIFICATION:

A level

OVERVIEW:

For many students this will be a new topic therefore the course begins with an introduction to the study of Sociology.  This examines preconceived ideas about the individual’s relationship to society and offers other perspectives to the status quo. The course encourages students to question whether they really exercise free choice and what this means in contemporary systems.  Students learn theories about the structure of society and institutions within it.  They are introduced to the work of sociologists and review their theories, analysing and comparing viewpoints.  Students also learn how Sociology relates to real life for instance through Social Policy.  Some of the topics encoutered in the course include: inequalities in the education system; corporate crime; the influence of mass media; same sex marriages and partnerships; the Black Lives Matter movement and the waves of the feminist movement.

EQUIPMENT:

Textbooks are recommended; suggestions on texts and reading will be offered.  A large ring-binder folder and appropriate stationery to record and organise your notes is a necessity. (Financial support may be available via the bursary.)

SKILLS:

Curiosity about the world, and a willingness to understand the society we live in.  You will want to know more about the world, while being open to having your perceptions and experiences of it challenged by other knowledge and ideas.  Be ready to explore various points of veiw about ethnicity, class and gender.

ASSESSMENT:

All examination at end of Year 13 with 3 x 2 hour papers on the full content, picked from any area of the course.

The exam board can choose from any area of the course within the specification and you will be given full preparation and practice to anticipate this across the range of topics.  Full exam skills will be embedded throughout.

You will be given a full breakdown on exam structure over the two years which will be reinforced and revisited; students should be fully aware of the expectations of each exam.

FUTURE PROSPECTS:

Students go onto a wide range of degree level and post graduate courses.  Many go onto directly related courses such as Sociology/Social Studies.  Others go onto tangentially relevant courses such as Sociology and Criminology, Archaeology, Social Studies and so on and may go onto courses such as PPE – Philosophy, Politics and Economics.  Additionally, Sociology can help with broader ranging degree courses such as Criminology, Journalism, Geography, and Law.

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY:

“Sociology is a subject that links closely with current affairs and gives you the opportunity to become knowledgeable in a range of political and sociological views, as well as forming your own opinions.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the course as it has made me reconsider the aspects of society I previously took for granted.  In particular, I am enjoying media as it includes interesting case studies and is extremely relevant for the times we are living in, making me rethink the provenance of the articles I read online.”  – Former student